Minor operations (often called minor surgery) at a GP surgery are simple procedures that can be safely done without going to hospital. Here’s a clear guide so you know what to expect.
🩺 What counts as a minor operation?
These are usually quick procedures done under local anaesthetic (you stay awake, but the area is numb). Common examples include:
- Removing moles, cysts, or skin tags
- Joint injections (e.g. for pain relief)
- Draining small abscesses
- Minor biopsies (taking a small tissue sample)
📍 Where and who does it?
- Performed at Budbrooke Medical Centre at a ‘Minor Ops’ clinic.
- Procedure is carried out by a trained GP with an assistance of either a nurse or a healthcare assistant
📝 Before the procedure
You will have to have been seen by a GP in order to be referred for Minor Surgery, where they can complete a pre-assessment:
- The GP explains the procedure, risks, and benefits
- You may be asked about medications (especially blood thinners)
- You’ll give informed consent
- Instructions may include:
- Eating normally (in most cases)
- Wearing loose clothing
- Arranging transport if needed
⏱️ On the day
- The area is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic
- The doctor is given maximum 30 minutes for the procedure
- You won’t feel pain, but you might feel pressure or movement
- Stitches or dressings may be applied
🏡 Aftercare
You’ll get instructions before leaving. These often include:
- How to keep the wound clean and dry
- When to remove/change dressings
- Signs of infection to watch for (redness, swelling, pus, fever)
- When stitches need removing (if applicable)
- Avoiding strenuous activity for a few days
⏳ Recovery time
- Most people recover within a few days to 2 weeks
- Healing time depends on the procedure and location on the body
💷 Cost (UK context)
- Usually free on the NHS if medically necessary
- Cosmetic procedures are typically not covered
👍 Benefits
- Convenient (no hospital visit)
- Short waiting and recovery times
- Familiar local setting
