Minor Procedures

Many of our GPs are trained to completed a number of minor procedures including:

• Ingrowing toenail removal
• Skin cyst/tag removal
• Mole removal

They are ably assisted in theatre by our experiences Nurses and Healthcare Assistants.

All patients have a pre-op consultation with the operating GP first. If the doctor feels it necessary to operate the patient will be booked in to the minor ops clinic. The doctor will explain the procedure to the patient and why it is necessary. The patient will have the opportunity to ask any questions to reassure them about the procedure and when they are happy they will be asked to sign a consent form.

Most patients will be able to go about their normal business the following day but they may be advised to ask somebody to drive them home.

All operations are performed in our treatment room under local anaesthetic (numbing of the affected area while the patient remains awake).

To arrange your appointment please contact Reception.

After your minor procedure

What to Expect

Following your procedure, it’s normal to experience:

• Minor bleeding from the wound
• Numbness, usually resolving within 24 hours
• Throbbing pain as the local anaesthetic wears off
• Temporary blanching (paleness) of the area due to the anaesthetic

When to Seek Help

Please contact the Practice if, 2–4 days after your procedure, you develop:

• Worsening pain
• Redness, warmth, or swelling at the site
• Fever or feeling generally unwell

These could be signs of infection.

Bleeding

• Some bleeding is expected and usually settles on its own.
• If new bleeding occurs, apply firm pressure to the wound for a few minutes.
• If your dressing becomes soaked or wet, change it as advised by the nurse.

Caring for Your Dressing

• Keep the dressing clean and dry.
• Remove after 48 hours (or 4 days for toenail surgery).
• Once removed, you may clean with water, but avoid soap, shampoo, or other products for a further 24 hours.
• You may apply a small amount of Vaseline to scabbed wounds to help reduce scarring.

Stitches (Sutures)

• Please book an appointment to have stitches removed after 7–14 days (we will advise you of the exact timing).
• If the wound is on an area under skin tension, avoid vigorous activity that might stretch the area, as the scar may reopen.