Removal of skin lesions, moles and subcutaneous lesions

Weeks before the procedure:
· During the consultation with our surgeon, your health and suitability for the procedure will be assessed. Discuss your wishes and expectations with the surgeon. You may be asked to undergo various laboratory tests and other examinations to confirm your health. Discuss with the surgeon about the medications and nutritional supplements you are taking. Certain medications (e.g. blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen), and some nutritional supplements (e.g. omega) may increase the risk of bleeding. Their use should be discontinued according to the surgeon’s instructions.

· Smoking impairs blood circulation, slows down wound healing and increases the risk of infection. We recommend that you stop smoking at least 4 weeks before the procedure and continue to be smoke-free after the procedure.

· Eat a varied and healthy diet and exercise regularly. Good general fitness promotes recovery.

On the day of your procedure:
· Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your procedure, as alcohol can increase your risk of bleeding.

· Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off.

· Take the medications your surgeon has prescribed in the morning.

· If you are given sedatives, you will not be able to drive yourself. Please arrange a ride home.

You can book an appointment for the procedure directly by email or, if you wish, come to the surgeon for a consultation first. During the consultation, you will be given a time for the procedure. Arrive punctually. A nurse will receive you and go through the procedure with you. Usually, no sedative medication is needed, but you will receive sedative premedication if you wish.

After the procedure, you will usually be able to go home without monitoring. After the removal of larger skin lesions, you will be monitored in the aftercare room. The operating room nurse will go through the aftercare instructions with you. A follow-up visit is not routinely needed, but you can book an appointment for a follow-up visit if necessary.

If necessary, the removed skin or subcutaneous lesion will be sent to the laboratory for a PAD examination (histological examination of a tissue sample) and you will receive the results of the examination by email with further instructions.

After eyelid surgery, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions. Minor bleeding may occur immediately after the procedure. The removal area is usually covered with a bandage or wound tape, which is kept in place according to the doctor’s instructions. A little pain may occur, you can take painkillers if necessary.

Keep the removal area clean by washing your hands carefully before touching the area. You can usually shower after 1–2 days, but avoid rubbing and dry the area with pressure. Saunas, swimming and bathing should be avoided until the wound has healed, for about 1–2 weeks. Wound taping is usually used for 2–4 weeks and they are dried with pressure after the shower. If necessary, support taping can be continued with Micropore tape for longer, especially in areas where the skin is prone to stretching. Scars usually redden for 6–12 months. During the redness, scars should be protected from the sun, as a fresh scar is sensitive to pigmentation. If the scar itches and thickens, it may be a case of scar hyperplasia, in which case silicone tape or gel (e.g. Kelo-Cote) is recommended.

Contact your doctor if the wound becomes red, swollen, hot, or oozes pus, or if the pain increases or is not relieved by painkillers.