- Reference Number: HEY-494/2023
- Departments: Plastic Surgery
- Last Updated: 10 January 2023
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Introduction
This leaflet has been produced to give you general information about your discharge. Most of your questions should be answered by this leaflet. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and your doctor, but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading it you have any concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team.
What is local anaesthetic?
Local anaesthetic means that only the area which has been operated upon is numb and that you remain awake during the procedure.
Will I need pain relief after a local anaesthetic?
When the local anaesthetic wears off, you may feel some soreness or discomfort. It is advisable to have a supply of mild pain relief medication at home, which should be used as directed on the packet if you have pain. DO NOT take aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen unless you are already taking them regularly.
What if I have stitches and/or dressings?
You may have stitches which do not need removing as they dissolve. If you have stitches that need to be removed, you will be advised to make an appointment with the practice nurse at your doctor’s surgery or you will be given an appointment to attend the Plastics Dressing Clinic.
You may have a dressing specific to your wound area, adhesive paper strips, an adherent dressing or no dressing. Please try to keep the dressing clean and dry until you are seen in the clinic. You will be advised on the type of dressing on the day of surgery.
You may be advised to go to your practice nurse at your doctor’s surgery for a wound review and removal of stitches or to attend the Plastic Surgery outpatient department. These details will be made clear on discharge.
What follow up care will I need?
If you require any follow up care you will be advised of these arrangements on discharge.
What special instructions should I follow?
(This space is left blank. If there are any follow up instructions, the nurse will write them in here when applicable).
Help and Advice
Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this leaflet, please do not hesitate to contact the any of the following:
Please contact the area where you had surgery in the first instance if the area is open
General Advice
Most of your questions should have been answered by this leaflet, but remember that this is only a starting point for discussion with the healthcare team.
This leaflet was produced by the Plastic Surgery Department, Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and will be reviewed in January 2026.
Ref: HEY494/2023
