Skin Surgeons Scotland

What To Expect

Having a procedure under local anaesthetic

When undergoing an operation with local anaesthetic, it’s important to understand the process so you can be actively involved in your care. Your procedure is done as a day case, meaning you’ll go home the same day.

What is a Local Anaesthetic? A local anaesthetic involves numbing a specific area of your body with injections. You’ll remain awake but won’t feel pain in the treated area during the procedure.

Before Your Procedure

  • Eating and Drinking: Unlike general anaesthesia, there’s no need to fast. Eat and drink as normal.
  • Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothes and comfortable, flat shoes.
  • Medications: Bring essential medications like inhalers. Your surgeon will advise if any regular medications need to be stopped beforehand, such as blood thinners.
  • Valuables: Leave valuable items at home to avoid loss or damage.
Waterfront Private Hospital Edinburgh waiting area
Medications to stop before surgery

Preparing for your procedure

On the Day of Your Operation: You’ll be escorted to the treatment room by a staff member. You can keep your glasses, hearing aids, and dentures unless your procedure involves the eyes, ears, or mouth.

  • Jewellery: It’s best to remove jewellery and piercings. If that’s not possible, they can be covered with tape, but may still need to be removed if they interfere with the procedure.
  • Makeup: Avoid wearing makeup, especially if your procedure involves the face.

During your procedure

During the Procedure: Your surgeon, skilled in administering local anaesthetic, will keep you informed throughout the process:

  • Initial Injection: This may sting, but the discomfort will quickly subside as the area becomes numb.
  • Anaesthetic Effect: You may feel a warm, tingling sensation as the anaesthetic takes effect. The procedure will only begin once the area is completely numb.
  • Sensation: You’ll be aware of pressure and movement, but you won’t feel pain.

 

Potential Side Effects: Side effects from local anaesthetics are uncommon but can include temporary blurred vision, headaches, or tingling around the mouth.

 
consulting-2
Nurse applying a dressings on a wound

After your procedure

After the Procedure

  • Post-Procedure Sensation: The area may feel swollen or tight as the anaesthetic wears off.
  • Duration: Numbness usually lasts 1-2 hours. During this time, avoid injuring the area.
  • Appearance and Bleeding: The skin may appear lighter due to adrenaline in the anaesthetic, but this will return to normal. A small amount of bleeding is normal.
  • Pain Relief: You may need additional pain relief as the anaesthetic wears off, and your surgeon will advise accordingly.

 

After Discharge

  • Going Home: Plan for someone to take you home or arrange a taxi. You don’t need a responsible adult to stay with you, but it can be helpful.
  • Discomfort or Pain: The numbness will wear off in 1-2 hours. Your surgeon will advise on suitable pain relief.
  • Wound Care: Follow your surgeon’s instructions for wound care to ensure proper healing.
  • Returning to Work: Depending on your procedure and job, you may need from a few days to 1-2 weeks off work. Your surgeon will advise you based on your situation.
  • Driving: Avoid driving for a few hours until the anaesthetic has worn off and you’re confident there is no bleeding or pain that could distract you. For some procedures, avoid driving for several days.
  • Follow-Up and Aftercare: All-inclusive aftercare is provided as part of your procedure, including follow-up appointments and support to ensure a smooth recovery. These arrangements will be made prior to your discharge.
Waterfront Private Hospital Edinburgh

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Waterfront Private Hospital
1 Waterfront Park
Edinburgh
EH5 1SD

Call us: 0131 376 2744

Opening hours: 8am – 5pm Monday – Friday

Skin Surgeons Scotland

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