Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Elective surgery
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Elective surgery: Surgery that is subject to choice (election). The choice may be made by the patient or doctor.
For example, the time when a surgical procedure is performed may be elective. The procedure is beneficial to the patient but does not need be done at a particular time.
As opposed to urgent or emergency surgery.