Advanced Surgery

pre surgery on the daypost surgerysurgeons

Advanced Surgery encompasses all the clinics of individual plastic surgeons and dermatologists specialising in the excision and repair of various skin lesions. 

Patients to these clinics can be referred by a dermatologist. GPs can refer patients to private surgeons. 

Around 95% of tumours are completely removed and cured. A small number of patients may require a second procedure. However 100% cure cannot be guaranteed. The wound will be repaired in one of several ways. This will be decided at your preoperative appointment, or on the day and explained in detail to you. The repair option chosen aims to give the best possible cosmetic and functional result.

preparation for advanced surgery

The best preparation for your surgery is a good night’s sleep, usual breakfast (and lunch if your surgery is scheduled in the afternoon), and regular medications unless advised to withhold them by your prescribing doctor.

If you are taking any regular medications, you should take them as normal unless advised to withhold them. You should dress comfortably. You will ideally have someone to drive you home after surgery. Due to the limited space we request that you only bring one companion. Do not bring any valuables or wear unnecessary jewellery. Do not wear makeup if the surgery being carried out is on your face.

on the day

On the day of surgery a number of people will be involved in your treatment. These will include 1 principal plastic surgeon or dermatologist and 1-2 other doctors (all of whom may be involved in performing the surgery) and 1-2 nurses.

Surgery Duration

Advanced surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, while you are awake. The approximate time for surgery is 1-2 hours, this depends on the complexity of the surgery and also the number of lesions being removed.

Every surgery is different, which means that we may sometimes be behind schedule. We will do our best to attend to the surgery on the day, however this is not always possible. Sometimes surgery is too complex for a variety of reasons and is best carried out as an inpatient in a hospital. This will be discussed and planned with you at your preoperative appointment.

common surgery repairs

The wound will be repaired in one of several ways. This will be decided at your preoperative appointment, or on the day and explained in detail to you. The repair option chosen aims to give the best possible cosmetic and functional result.

post surgery

what to expect post surgery

A dressing will be applied after surgery to help reduce bleeding and protect the wound. You will be given verbal and written instructions on wound care and what to do in the event of any complications. You may need time off work or exercise regimes may need to be ceased temporarily. Please discuss any concerns with medical staff.

Surgery risks and complications

As with all surgeries, complications may arise. A list of these complications include:

• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Infection
• Scarring
• Pain afterwards
• Incomplete removal of cancer
• Swelling
• Numbness

Associated risks and complications will be discussed prior to surgery. Please don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have.

FOLLOW UP

We require you to come back 1-2 weeks after surgery for a wound review and/or removal of your stitches. A follow up appointment to see the doctor is usually required after your stitches are removed. The pathology results of the lesion will be discussed during one of these appointments. If further treatment is required this will also be discussed. After the wound is healed you will be referred back to your doctor for ongoing surveillance.

Patients to these clinics can be referred by a dermatologist. GPs can refer patients to private surgeons.