Second Opinions

Been told you need surgery? Get a second opinion first.

Surgery is a decision worth getting right. A second opinion can confirm your plan, or reveal a less-invasive option you weren't offered. Either way, you'll leave knowing.

A conservative-first look

Dr. Wichman recommends non-operative solutions when they're appropriate, and honest guidance when surgery truly is the right call. No pressure, no upselling.

Fellowship-trained expertise

A board-certified, sports-medicine fellowship-trained surgeon reviews your imaging and your options with you directly, not a rushed hand-off.

Seen quickly

You shouldn't wait weeks to think clearly about surgery. We offer prompt access, so you are seen quickly, without weeks of waiting.

What it can uncover

What a second opinion can reveal

Every case is different. These are the kinds of situations where a fresh, unhurried look most often makes a difference.

"You've been told you need a joint replacement."

Not every joint that looks worn on an MRI needs to be replaced right away. For the right patient, focused physical therapy combined with orthobiologic treatment can calm the pain and buy real time before surgery is on the table. A second opinion sorts out which path fits you.

"You feel like no one has really listened."

Pain that gets brushed off doesn't go away. Sometimes the most valuable thing a second opinion offers is time: a surgeon who hears the whole story. Dr. Wichman often uses targeted diagnostic injections to pinpoint the true source of your pain, so the plan treats the real problem, not a guess.

"Sometimes it confirms surgery is the right call."

A second opinion isn't about talking you out of an operation. When surgery genuinely is the best option, you'll hear that clearly, and you can move forward confident that you explored the alternatives first.

How it works

Three simple steps

1

Call or request online

Reach us any time. We'll get you scheduled and tell you what to bring.

2

Send your imaging & records

Bring or send your MRI/X-rays and any notes so Dr. Wichman can review your case fully before you're seen.

3

Get a clear recommendation

You'll leave with a straight answer, whether that's proceeding with surgery, a different surgical approach, or a non-operative plan.

What to bring

  • Your MRI and/or X-ray images (on disc, or shared from your patient portal)
  • Any reports, op notes, or records from prior evaluations
  • A list of the medications you take
  • Your questions, write them down so nothing gets missed
Coming from out of town?

Second opinions from a distance

Patients travel to us for a fresh look, and we're glad to help. Here's how that works, honestly.

1

Visit us in Milwaukee

The most complete option is an in-person visit. You're evaluated and examined here in Wisconsin, and you leave with a clear plan. We're happy to help coordinate the logistics of your trip.

2

Records & imaging review

In some situations, Dr. Wichman can review your MRI, X-rays, and records and share his impressions. Because a physician generally must be licensed in the state where you're located, a formal remote consultation that directs your care may require you to travel, or for us to coordinate with your local physician. Our team will tell you exactly what's possible for your situation.

A records review is an educational impression, not a substitute for an in-person evaluation, and it does not by itself establish a treatment relationship. We'll always be straight with you about what a remote review can and can't tell you.
Insurance is not a barrier

Out-of-network, without the surprise bills

Worried we're not in your network? Don't be. We handle out-of-network billing so you're not caught in the middle, we never balance bill, and any surgery is performed at a facility that's in-network for you.

See how coverage works

Get clarity before you decide.

A second opinion is one of the most valuable things you can do before surgery. We make it easy.