I am happy that I understand the nature of the operation and potential complications:
1. Bleeding – Will most likely stop in a few minutes but can form a haematoma under the skin (which resolves in a few weeks). It has the potential to get infected.
2. Infection – rare with the precautions taken, but if the wound gets red and discharges pus, please seek medical advice for need of antibiotics.
3. Scar – all wounds heal up with scarring which are permanent. At times it may become hypertrophic or a keloid depending on your skin type. Massaging with a moisturiser after 2 weeks helps the scar heal better.
4. Wound dehiscence – the stiches can come apart leaving the wound open, which heals by itself, but can take longer and leaves a larger scar.
5. Recurrence – the lesion may recur at the same or different site requiring further procedure.
6. Further procedure – some samples are sent for biopsy. Depending on the result, you may require further surgery or treatment which will be discussed with you.
I understand that I may have a local anaesthetic for the procedure. Rarely, some patients can develop a serious side effect from this. I also am aware that any stitches which are inserted may need to be removed 10-14 days after the operation.
If required, I am happy to have a photograph taken of my skin lesion, or a video taken of the removal of my skin lesion for my medical records. The photograph and videos will only be used for clinical and training purposes.