Dermatological Surgery

• Our treatments are all performed by a qualified nurse or doctor
• We have the latest technology available providing the most effective treatments possible
• Treatments are within our Dermatologist run skin clinics in Bournemouth and Christchurch - providing the best available skin expertise.
• Our prices are extremely competitive and affordable
• Our treatments are safe and effective

Dermatological surgery is undertaken under local anaesthetic This means that you will be given a small injection directly into the area of skin where you will be operated on. This initially may cause some localised discomfort but will make the area numb and the procedure will then be painless.

All procedures do come with an element of risk. These risks are usually small, but it is important you are aware of them.

• Pain or discomfort – You may experience some pain when the local anaesthetic is being injected, and once this wears off, the area may feel sore.
• Bleeding, Bruising or Infection – Any wound is at risk from bleeding, bruising, infection or breakdown after surgery. After your procedure you will be given a leaflet which explains how to avoid these complications. If you follow the wound care instructions following your surgery, these problems are uncommon.
• Scaring – Depending on the procedure, you may be left with a scar. Sometimes a keloid scar develops (this is a raised, lumpy, hard or rubbery scar). If this is a concern, the doctor can discuss this with you in more detail.
• Further Surgery – Some conditions may require further surgery at a later date, depending on what is found. In addition, some conditions do have the risk of recurring in the future. If you are worried, your doctor can discuss this, if it is relevant to your condition.
• Nerve damage – In very rare cases, or at high risk sites, there may be a very small risk of nerve damage to the nerves running in the area to be operated on. Again, this is not relevant to all procedures, and can be discussed in further detail with your doctor

We advise that you bring someone with you when you attend for surgery.

• You should have had a good breakfast or lunch before your operation.
• If you are taking ANTICOAGULANTS, please inform us in good time as we sometimes advise to stop taking this 24 hours prior to your planned surgery.
• If you take WARFARIN, please discuss this in advance with your doctor, as you will need an INR blood check prior to the procedure.
• IF YOU ARE UNSURE IF YOU ARE TAKING ANY BLOOD THINNING MEDICATION PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR PRIOR TO YOUR APPOINTMENT.
• Please inform the theatre nurse, before your surgery, if you have previously experienced any adverse events to any procedures, including fainting episodes.

The procedure will be undertaken in one of the operating rooms, please arrive 10 minutes prior to the procedure.

A theatre nurse will take you to the theatre when ready. A doctor will discuss the procedure with you and answer any further. questions you may have and will gain written consent from you to carry out the procedure. You will have discussed the procedure prior to the surgery at your clinic appointment.

Wound care instructions will be given to you after your procedure. Once the procedure is finished you will be asked to stay in the department for 20 minutes to ensure you have recovered from the procedure. You are also advised to refrain from driving until the following day.

The recovery period is 24 to 48 hours after surgery.  Please be aware that in the days following the procedure you may need to arrange to take a few days off work and/or ask someone to help you at home if necessary.  You should not be performing any strenuous activities (this includes lifting, exercise and housework).  It is important that you should not get the wound wet for 48 hours following the procedure, so please ensure your skin is clean before attending.