Aurea Medical Ltd · CQC registered (provider ID 1-23861263521) · Harley Street & Cavendish Square, London
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What to expect on the day of your procedure

Day-case surgery under local anaesthetic — Harley Street & Cavendish Square, London

Most of our procedures are day cases under local anaesthetic: you arrive, meet your consultant, have the procedure, rest briefly and go home the same day — typically within one to two hours.

Before you arrive

Once your booking is confirmed we send you clear instructions for your specific procedure — what to wear, whether to eat as normal, and any medicines to pause. If anything about your health changes before the day, such as a new illness or medication, let us know in advance on 020 7290 9542.

Arrival and check-in

Please arrive about 15 minutes early. Our reception team will confirm your details and you’ll wait in a private, comfortable waiting area — there are no hospital wards or queues.

Private patient waiting area at our London clinic

Meeting your consultant

You’ll see the consultant performing your procedure — not a junior doctor. They’ll go through your consent form, answer any remaining questions and mark the treatment site where relevant. You can change your mind at any point up to the procedure itself.

The procedure

Local anaesthetic is injected around the treatment area; this stings briefly, then the area goes numb. You stay awake and can talk to the team throughout — most patients are surprised how quick and comfortable it is. Depending on the procedure, this stage usually takes 20–60 minutes.

Recovery and going home

After the procedure you’ll rest briefly while we check the dressing and run through aftercare. Because there’s no general anaesthetic to recover from, most patients walk out within 15–30 minutes and can return to light activities the same day. You’ll leave with a written aftercare sheet and a direct number to call with any concerns.

Aftercare and follow-up

Your aftercare sheet covers dressing care, washing, activity restrictions and warning signs to watch for. Where stitches need removing or results (such as histology on a removed lesion) need discussing, we’ll book your follow-up before you leave. Suitability, exact timings and recovery vary by procedure and person — your consultant will give you guidance specific to you.

Frequently asked questions

Can I eat and drink before a procedure under local anaesthetic?
Usually yes — for most procedures under local anaesthetic you can eat and drink normally beforehand. Your consultant will confirm any specific instructions for your procedure when your appointment is booked.
Can I drive home afterwards?
For many minor procedures you can, but it depends on the procedure and where it is on your body — for example hand or foot surgery may make driving unsafe or uninsured. We recommend arranging a lift or taxi, and your consultant will advise you in advance.
How long will I be at the clinic?
Most day-case visits take between one and two hours in total, including check-in, preparation, the procedure and a short recovery period. The procedure itself is often 20–60 minutes.
Will I need stitches removed?
Some procedures use dissolvable stitches that disappear on their own; others need removal after 5–14 days, either at the clinic or by your practice nurse. Your aftercare sheet will say exactly what applies to you.
Call 020 7290 9542