Understanding Your Consent Form

Key Information:

A Different Approach: Hearing the word “surgery” can be worrying, but minor surgery at our practice is very different from a hospital operation.

The Analogy:

Major Surgery: Like building a large extension on a house (heavy machinery, big crew, deep sleep).
Minor Surgery: Like hiring a skilled tradesperson to fix a latch on a garden gate. It is precise, quick, and you can go straight back home.

The Procedure: We use this service for surface-level repairs, such as removing ingrown toenails, cysts, moles, or skin tags.

Anesthesia: We do not put you to sleep. We use a local anesthetic to numb just a small area. You will feel a scratch, the area will go numb, and you remain awake and comfortable throughout.

Understanding Consent: The “Work Order”

Before we pick up any tools, we need to agree on the plan. Think of the consent form as a “work order.”

The Trade-Off: We will explain the benefits (removing the lump) and the risks (such as infection).

Scarring: Please remember: any time we cut the skin, it leaves a scar. You must be happy with this trade-off before you sign the form to give us the green light.

Your 4-Step Preparation Guide

To make sure your appointment runs smoothly and safely, please follow these four rules:

Do Not Fast.

Please eat a normal breakfast or lunch before you come in. This prevents you from feeling faint during the procedure.

Check Medications.

If you take blood thinners (eg warfarin, apixaban, aspirin) or immunosuppressants, please make sure you have spoken to us and follow the specific advice given.

Hygiene.

Please shower on the morning of your surgery and wear loose, comfortable clothing to easily expose the arm or leg.

Transport.

Ideally, we recommend you have transport arranged to get you home afterwards.

Understanding Minor Surgery

Key Information:

Understanding Consent: The “Work Order”

Your 4-Step Preparation Guide

What Happens Next?

Further Information