About Dr. Yasmeh Concierge Care Conditions & Procedures FAQ Blog Request an appointment ↗
Home/Conditions & Procedures/Colonoscopy
Prevention in action

The screening that can actually prevent cancer.

Colonoscopy doesn't just detect colorectal cancer — it prevents it, by finding and removing precancerous polyps before they ever become malignant.

Quick answer

A colonoscopy examines the entire lining of your colon with a thin, flexible camera while you're comfortably sedated. For most adults at average risk, screening begins at age 45. Polyps found during the exam can usually be removed on the spot — preventing them from becoming cancer.

Why this exam matters

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers — through healthy lifestyle choices and routine screening. My active research focuses on early-onset colorectal cancer, which is rising sharply in adults under 50; it's part of why I take screening so personally.

The procedure itself typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, and my goal is always a careful, thorough examination — not simply a fast one.

What the visit looks like

  • A high-quality bowel prep the day before (my office guides you through it step by step)
  • Comfortable sedation — most patients remember nothing
  • A complete examination of the colon, with polyps removed during the same procedure
  • Findings discussed with you before you leave whenever possible
  • Biopsy and polyp results reviewed with you within one to two weeks
  • A personalized surveillance schedule based on what we find

Who should be screened

Average-risk adults should begin at age 45. If you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain hereditary conditions, screening may need to start earlier — I'll review your history and recommend the right schedule for you.

Common questions

Colonoscopy FAQs

At what age should I get a colonoscopy? +
For most adults at average risk, colorectal cancer screening should begin at age 45. With a family history of colon cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain hereditary conditions, screening may need to start earlier. I review your personal and family history to recommend the schedule that's right for you.
How long does a colonoscopy take? +
The procedure itself typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, though plan on two to three hours at the endoscopy center for preparation, recovery, and discharge. My goal is a careful, thorough examination — not simply a fast one.
What happens during a colonoscopy? +
While you're comfortably sedated, I examine the entire lining of your colon with a thin, flexible camera. If I find polyps, they can usually be removed during the same procedure — preventing them from ever becoming cancer. Biopsies may also be taken to help diagnose digestive conditions.
How do I prepare? +
A successful colonoscopy begins with a high-quality bowel preparation: a clear liquid diet the day before and a prescribed prep solution to cleanse the colon. My office provides detailed instructions and answers questions along the way so you feel confident going in.
Can I drive afterward? +
No — because of sedation, you'll need a responsible adult to take you home, and you shouldn't drive or make important decisions for the rest of the day. Most patients feel back to normal by the next morning.
What happens if polyps are found? +
Most polyps can be removed safely during the colonoscopy itself — no surgery needed. Removing polyps is one of the most effective ways to prevent colorectal cancer. Based on their size, number, and type, I'll recommend the right surveillance interval for your next exam.
Related

Explore more

Upper Endoscopy

Evaluation of reflux, swallowing difficulty, pain, and anemia.

Learn more ↗

Capsule Endoscopy

A swallowable camera for the small intestine.

Learn more ↗

Conditions I Treat

Reflux, IBS, IBD, celiac, and more.

Learn more ↗
Ready when you are

Ready to schedule your colonoscopy?

Request an appointment and the office will take it from there.

Request an appointment ↗ How concierge care works