HOMEFrequently asked questions
I have seen other clinics / had treatments at other clinics
why should I come to you?
The Yorkshire Skin Clinic prides itself on offering the highest quality treatments carried out by qualified doctors and surgeons. Lots of clinics use nurses, paramedics, dentists and sometimes non-medical people like beauticians.
It is our belief that if you would not be comfortable letting a nurse or beautician operate on you to remove your appendix, why would you let them operate on your face?
However skilled the clinician, every procedure has its risks. If something does go wrong then as qualified doctors and surgeons we can deal with it safely and usually in-house, whereas other clinics would send you to see a doctor.
What sort of treatments and procedures do you use?
All of our treatments will use one of the different procedures which are detailed below. At your consultation the doctor will advise you of the most appropriate procedure for your treatment,
Cryotherapy
This is also known as freezing therapy and uses liquid nitrogen to
destroy abnormal areas of skin such as warts.
Cautery
This procedure uses heat to “cauterise” and remove skin tags. It is also
used to seal blood vessels and stop bleeding in other minor
procedures.
Curettage
This procedure involves the removal of skin tissue using a curette which is an instrument like a small sharp spoon.
Shave Excision
Some skin lesions which are raised up from the surface of the skin can be successfully treated by “shaving” off using a surgical blade. This is usually followed by cautery and does not require any stitches.
Formal excision
Some moles are best removed by cutting with a scalpel and then using stitches to close the wound.
Will I need an anaesthetic?
This will depend upon the procedure you are having and the doctor will be able to advise you. It is common for anaesthetic to be used for cautery, curettage and excisions.
If I have an anaesthetic will I be awake during the procedure?
Yes, we only use local anaesthetic which numbs the skin around the treatment site. You will be awake throughout the procedure and free to ask questions throughout.
Will I be able to drive home after my procedure?
Whilst the anaesthetic will not affect your ability to drive some people may prefer not to drive after a procedure.
Will the procedure leave a scar?
Any treatment that involves cutting will leave a scar which will generally fade with time to leave a white mark. Some other treatments such as cryotherapy may also leave a permanent scar. The doctor will advise you further about the risks of scarring at the time of your consultation as this will vary according to skin type and the site of the operation on the body.
Will there be bruising or bleeding afterwards?
Depending on the procedure you are having there may be some bleeding or bruising afterwards. Please see our “After your treatment..” leaflet for further information and advice.
I have had stitches – who will remove them?
If you have had a procedure that involves stitches you should make an appointment at your own GP’s surgery to have them removed. At your appointment, the doctor will advise you when the stitches should be removed.
If I have concerns following a procedure what should I do?
Bruising and bleeding are not unusual symptoms after an operation and you will be given written advice about this. Infection may sometimes occur in a wound and require treatment. Please contact the clinic if you are concerned and a member of the team will be able to advise the best course of action.
