Dr Bryan G. Lawrence

18/08/2026

Why Every Patient Looks Different on Paper Than They Do in Person

A referral letter, investigation report, or scan can tell us a great deal about a patient's condition.

What it can't tell us is who that patient is.

Before a consultation, I often review referral letters, imaging, blood results, and medical histories. These provide valuable clinical information and help shape my initial understanding of the case.

But the consultation is where the full picture begins to emerge.

It is where you learn about a patient's concerns, priorities, support systems, lifestyle, and personal goals. It is where you gain insight into how a condition is affecting their daily life and what matters most to them when considering treatment options.

Two patients may present with the same diagnosis, yet their circumstances and healthcare priorities can be entirely different.

This is why medicine remains both a science and an art.

Clinical information provides the foundation, but understanding the person behind the diagnosis is what allows us to deliver truly patient-centred care.

As healthcare professionals, we are privileged to care for people, not just conditions.

And that distinction matters.

04/08/2026

What My Patients Have Taught Me

People often assume that doctors spend their careers teaching patients.

The truth is that patients teach us too.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of meeting people from all walks of life, each with their own story, challenges, and experiences.

My patients have taught me that courage doesn't always look the way we expect it to. Sometimes it's showing up to an appointment despite being afraid. Sometimes it's facing uncertainty with determination. And sometimes it's simply asking for help when you need it.

They have taught me the importance of listening carefully, communicating clearly, and never losing sight of the fact that every diagnosis affects a real person, not just a medical chart.

Most of all, they have reminded me that healthcare is built on trust.

To every patient who has shared their journey with me, asked difficult questions, placed their trust in my care, or allowed me to be part of an important chapter in their life—thank you.

You have taught me just as much as any textbook ever could.

– Dr Bryan Lawrence

31/07/2026

🏆 A friendly reminder to cast your vote!

Dr Bryan G. Lawrence has been nominated for Best of Pretoria 2026 – General Surgeon, and we'd be incredibly grateful for your support.

If Dr Lawrence has cared for you or a loved one, or if you've experienced his dedication and expertise firsthand, we'd love your vote.

🎉 Exciting News!

We are incredibly proud to announce that Dr Bryan G. Lawrence has been nominated for Best of Pretoria 2026 – General Surgeon! 🏆

This nomination is a reflection of Dr Lawrence's unwavering commitment to surgical excellence, compassionate patient care, and the trust he has earned from his patients and colleagues over the years.

If Dr Lawrence has made a difference in your life or the life of someone you know, we would be truly grateful for your support.

🗳️ Vote here:
https://www.bestofsouthafrica.co.za/pretoria/bop-voting-medical/

Or simply scan the QR code on the image to cast your vote.

Thank you to every patient, referring doctor, colleague, friend, and family member for your continued support. Every vote is sincerely appreciated. 💙

22/07/2026

"Doctor, can I ask you something?"

It's a question I hear many times during consultations, and my answer is always the same:

Absolutely.

Whether you're facing surgery for the first time or have been through it before, it's completely natural to have questions. In fact, I encourage it.

Many patients arrive feeling anxious about what lies ahead. They wonder how they'll feel afterwards, how long recovery will take, when they can get back to work, or whether they'll be able to return to their normal routine.

The truth is that asking questions is an important part of your care. The more you understand about your condition, treatment, and recovery, the more confident and informed you'll feel when making decisions about your health.

In this carousel, I've shared five of the most common questions patients ask me before surgery.

If you've ever found yourself wondering the same things, you're certainly not alone.

Swipe through to see if your question made the list.

– Dr Bryan Lawrence

📞 To book a consultation, contact our rooms on 012 335 0625.

08/07/2026

What I Wish Every Patient Knew Before Their First Consultation

If you've been referred to a surgeon for the first time, there's something I'd like you to know:

It's completely normal to feel nervous.

Many patients arrive at their first consultation feeling anxious, uncertain, or worried about what the appointment might mean. Some are concerned about a diagnosis. Others worry that seeing a surgeon automatically means they need an operation.

The truth is that your first consultation is simply a conversation.

It's an opportunity for me to understand your symptoms, review your medical history, answer your questions, and discuss the most appropriate next steps. Sometimes that may involve further investigations. Sometimes it may involve treatment options. And sometimes it may simply be about providing reassurance and clarity.

You don't need to have all the answers.

You don't need to know the right medical terminology.

And you certainly don't need to worry about asking too many questions.

My role is not only to assess your condition, but also to help you understand it.

So if you're feeling apprehensive about an upcoming appointment, please know that you're not alone. We will take things one step at a time, and together we'll determine the best path forward.

– Dr Bryan Lawrence

📞 To book a consultation, contact our rooms on 012 335 0625.

26/06/2026

🎉 Exciting News!

We are incredibly proud to announce that Dr Bryan G. Lawrence has been nominated for Best of Pretoria 2026 – General Surgeon! 🏆

This nomination is a reflection of Dr Lawrence's unwavering commitment to surgical excellence, compassionate patient care, and the trust he has earned from his patients and colleagues over the years.

If Dr Lawrence has made a difference in your life or the life of someone you know, we would be truly grateful for your support.

🗳️ Vote here:
https://www.bestofsouthafrica.co.za/pretoria/bop-voting-medical/

Or simply scan the QR code on the image to cast your vote.

Thank you to every patient, referring doctor, colleague, friend, and family member for your continued support. Every vote is sincerely appreciated. 💙

15/06/2026

“What actually happens before surgery?”

For many patients, surgery can feel overwhelming, especially when they don’t know what to expect.

The good news is that there’s a lot of care, planning, and preparation that happens before any procedure takes place.

This may include:
• A consultation and physical assessment
• Tests or scans if needed
• Discussing the procedure and treatment plan
• Preparing for surgery day
• Planning for recovery and aftercare

Surgery is not just about the procedure itself. It’s also about making sure patients feel informed, supported, and cared for throughout the process.

If you’ve been referred for surgery, asking questions and understanding your treatment plan can help ease anxiety and make the experience feel less intimidating.

02/06/2026

June is Hernia Awareness Month. 🩺

Many people have heard the word hernia, but few know exactly what it means.

A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or tissue. This can create a visible lump or swelling, most commonly in the abdomen or groin.

While some hernias may initially cause little discomfort, they can gradually become larger or more symptomatic over time.

Understanding what a hernia is and recognising the possible signs can help people seek medical advice when necessary.

Swipe through to learn more about what hernias are and the symptoms to watch for.

💬 If you have questions or concerns about hernias, feel free to leave a comment or contact the practice.

📞 012 335 0625
📧 [email protected]

🌐 www.drbglawrence-surgeon.co.za

26/05/2026

It’s completely normal to feel unsure or even a little nervous when it comes to surgery.

A lot of what people believe comes from things they’ve heard over time, and not always from medical advice.

The good news is that many procedures today are more routine, more manageable, and involve quicker recovery than most people expect.😃

Having the right information can make a big difference in how you feel about your next steps.

If you ever feel unsure, it’s always okay to ask questions and get clarity.

Dr Bryan Lawrence
Specialist General Surgeon
Life Eugene Marais Hospital

💬 You’re welcome to leave a comment or contact the practice if you’d like to chat.
📞 012 335 0625
📧 [email protected]

12/05/2026

12 May marks International Nurses Day. 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️

Nurses play an essential role in every part of the surgical journey. From preparing patients for procedures to providing care and support during recovery, their contribution is invaluable.

In the operating theatre, surgical wards, and recovery units, nurses are often the constant presence that helps patients feel supported during what can be a stressful time.

Dr Bryan Lawrence would like to recognise and thank the nurses who work tirelessly to provide compassionate and skilled care to patients every day.

Your dedication makes an extraordinary difference in healthcare. 💙

Happy International Nurses Day.