Will it hurt? What minor surgery under local anaesthetic really feels like

The question I'm asked most often before a minor procedure isn't about the operation at all. It's this: "Will it hurt?"

The second is usually: "Will I be awake?"

Both are completely reasonable. And I've found that, for most people, not knowing what's going to happen is far worse than what actually happens. So rather than give you a leaflet, I'd like to walk you through it the way you'll experience it: sense by sense.

To me, removing a mole, a cyst or a skin tag under local anaesthetic is routine. But small for me doesn't mean small for you. It might be the first time anyone has ever operated on you. That deserves a proper explanation.

Let's talk surgery.

Before we begin your minor surgery

Nothing happens in a rush. We'll have talked it through first: what we're removing and why, what the scar is likely to look like, and what to expect afterwards. You'll have the chance to ask anything, and you'll sign a consent form once you're happy.

I'll usually mark the area with a skin pen, so we both know exactly where we're working. Then you'll lie or sit comfortably, in whichever position gives the best access, with the area cleaned and covered with a sterile drape.

What you'll feel during your local anaesthetic

This is the part everyone wants to know about, so let me be honest.

The injection. The local anaesthetic is given with a very fine needle. You'll feel a sharp scratch, then a stinging or burning sensation for a few seconds as the anaesthetic goes in. Most people describe it as a bit like a bee sting. That's the worst of it, and it's over quickly.

Then, numbness. Within a minute or two, the area goes numb. I'll always check before I start, and I'll keep checking.

During the procedure. Local anaesthetic takes away sharp pain, but not every sensation. You may still feel pressure, pushing, tugging or a sense of movement. That's normal, and it isn't painful. The way I often put it is: you'll know something is happening, but it shouldn't hurt.

If you ever feel anything sharp, just tell me. I can add more anaesthetic in seconds. You're never expected to put up with pain.

What you'll hear

You'll hear my voice, mostly. I talk people through each step as it happens, so nothing comes as a surprise: "Now a little pressure." "That's the last stitch."

Some people like to chat the whole way through, about the weekend, their holiday or their dog. Others prefer to close their eyes and say very little. Both are absolutely fine. You set the tone.

What you'll see

Usually, not much. The area is covered with a sterile drape, so unless it's somewhere you can see easily, you won't watch the procedure itself. If it's on your arm or leg and you'd rather not look, just turn your head or look at the ceiling. If you're curious and do want to see, ask. Some people find it fascinating.

What you might smell

This one surprises people, so it's worth mentioning. To seal tiny blood vessels, a small heated instrument is sometimes used. It can create a faint smell, a little like a struck match. It's completely normal, and it means things are under control.

Afterwards

The numbness lasts a few hours, then the area may feel a little sore or tender, usually manageable with simple painkillers. You'll have a dressing and clear instructions on caring for the wound, when it can get wet, and when any stitches come out.

Most people go home straight afterwards, and many get back to normal day-to-day life quickly, avoiding heavy lifting or stretching the area for a while. If anything is removed, it's usually sent to the lab to be examined, and I'll let you know the result.

And you'll know who to contact if you have any worries at all, however small.

The honest summary

• Will it hurt? A brief sting, then it shouldn't.

• Will I be awake? Yes, and talked through every step.

• Will I feel anything? Pressure and movement, not pain. And if anything feels sharp, I'll top up the anaesthetic.

If you've been putting off having a mole, cyst, skin tag or torn earlobe looked at because you're worried about the procedure, I hope this helps. At SML Surgical Care in Ware, we'll always talk it through first, and there's no pressure to go ahead.

You can book online, call 01920 455522, or email info@sml.surgery. We're open on weekdays and on Saturdays.

This article is general information. Every procedure is different, and we'll explain exactly what to expect in yours.