We prefer to work closely with your family doctor and to gain the best timely advice we encourage patients to seek a referral from their GP or hand therapist. Even when your GP is unaware of the problem we prefer them to be aware of any surgical procedure you have had done. We do however accept requests from patients directly for minor skin lesions.
When you phone to book your appointment, we will advise you about the likelihood of having treatment at the time of your initial consultation. If not, we can plan a time with you during that consultation.
Please bring a list of your medications with you but do not stop any medications before your consultation, unless advised by us.
General Post-Operative
Following surgery, we recommend that you avoid activities that could hinder the healing process, such as smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages. We also suggest that you consider altering your daily routine especially any strenuous activities, allowing yourself time to rest and recuperate. Elevation of a surgical site provides pain relief and limits bruising and bleeding which may lead to complications.
If you are taking medication that “thins the blood” such as aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel or dabigatran, or if you have a disorder of blood clotting, it is essential that you discuss this prior to surgery.
Postoperative pain relief can be obtained with paracetamol or ibuprofen as well as elevation of the operative area. You may be prescribed stronger pain relief if this is required.
Your stitches will be removed a few days after surgery. To assist with the healing process and make scars less visible, we advise massaging Vitamin E cream into the scars twice a day for three months after removal of the sutures. We may provide tape to cover the scar in some cases.
You will be given a follow-up appointment that may or may not coincide with your suture removal. However, if between surgery and the follow-up you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important for you to contact us immediately:
- Excessive pain or bleeding
- Abnormal swelling
- Fever
We are dedicated to doing all we can to make your surgical experience with us as comfortable as possible.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about your post-operative care.
Insurance and ACC
We are affiliated Southern Cross Providers and can deal directly with your insurer if requested. We are able to provide comprehensive cost estimates for prior approval after your consultation. It is often helpful for you to discuss your needs with your insurer prior to your appointment.
We provide a complete ACC service of assessment and treatment without surcharge on surgical fees or consultation.