General Information

Dermatological surgery ranges from removing simple harmless moles and skin growths to complex, time-consuming micrographic surgery and advanced reconstruction. If you require skin surgery, it is important that you discuss exactly what is involved with the Dermatologist. Everyone’s experience of skin surgery will be different, but we would hope to make yours as stress-free as possible. The following are a few points to bear in mind:

- Always tell Dr. Cooper if you are taking medicines. Some thin the blood (like Warfarin, Aspirin and Clopidogrel) and may need to be stopped or reduced prior to the operation.

- Always say if you have a pacemaker or hearing aid, these can be upset by some of the electrial machines used during the operation.

- The vast majority of operations are perfomed under local anaesthetic, that means an injection to numb the area - you won’t be put to sleep.

- It is better to get someone else to bring you if possible, just in case you don’t feel up to getting home afterwards by yourself.

- Please tell the surgeon if you have any questions or concerns before the operation begins.

- After the operation, follow the written instructions given to you, as this may be specific information about your operation.

- Everything removed is sent to the laboratory for analysis. You will either be given the results in person at a subsequent appointment, or via a letter if appropriate.

- Any questions? No problem - phone up!

Disclaimer:
While every attempt has been made to keep the information on this site as accurate and helpful as possible, do not attempt to diagnose yourself - seek expert advice from a qualified Dermatologist in your area. It can sometimes be difficult even for the professionals!