A microdiscectomy removes the piece of herniated disc pressing on a nerve, through a small incision. It is the most common surgery for sciatica from a herniated disc. Leg pain often improves quickly, but recovery takes weeks and the disc can herniate again.
What happens
- General anaesthetic, small incision in the back
- The surgeon removes the disc fragment pressing on the nerve
- Many people go home the same day or the next day
Back or leg pain for more than 6 weeks? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.
Recovery
- Walking from day one
- Desk work often after 2 to 4 weeks
- Heavy lifting and sport after several weeks, guided by the surgeon
Risks
- Re-herniation in a minority of patients
- Infection, bleeding, nerve injury, dural tear (uncommon)
- Back pain can continue even when leg pain improves
Alternatives to try first
If you have no red flags, you may be able to try physiotherapy, an epidural, PRP or stem cells first. See do I need disc surgery?
Back or leg pain for more than 6 weeks? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.
Who is offered a microdiscectomy
Surgeons usually recommend it for leg pain from a herniated disc that matches the MRI and has not improved after several weeks of care, or for weakness that is getting worse. It treats leg pain far better than back pain.
What it costs
In the US, a microdiscectomy commonly costs $20,000 to $50,000 without insurance, before time off work and rehab. In public systems, waiting lists can be long.
Alternatives to try first
| Option | What to know |
|---|---|
| Stem cell injectionRecommended | Minimally invasive, no incision, same-day; aims to calm the disc and support repair |
| PRP | Growth factors from your own blood |
| Epidural steroid injection | Short-term relief of nerve inflammation |
| Physiotherapy | Supports every option |
Before you say yes
- Ask how likely the herniation is to shrink on its own
- Ask what happens if you wait 6 more weeks
- Ask about the re-herniation rate in the surgeon's own practice
- Get a second opinion on your MRI: free review
Life after microdiscectomy
Most people walk the same day and return to desk work within a few weeks. Core strengthening helps reduce the risk of the disc herniating again. If pain returns, regenerative treatment can still be considered later.
