Carried out under local anaesthesia, Mohs micrographic surgery is a highly specialised technique for removing certain types of skin cancer. Considered the 'Gold Standard' treatment, it ensures that all of the skin cancer is removed, while removing as little of the surrounding healthy tissue as possible. To achieve that, Dr Hafiji removes the visible part of the cancer a thin layer at a time with a very small margin of healthy skin around it. Each section is then checked, layer by layer under the microscope by Dr Hafiji. If necessary, a further layer is taken precisely from where there is residual skin cancer until it has been fully removed. This allows for removal of as little healthy tissue as possible which keeps the wound as small and as shallow as possible. This precise surgical technique ensures the skin cancer is fully removed on the day of your surgical procedure, giving you peace of mind, maximising the chances of cure while minimising scarring.

Skin lesions can be divided into two groups: Benign (non-cancerous): e.g. moles, cysts, warts, skin tags. These may be removed to prevent spreading, stop discomfort if the lesion is being irritated by clothing/jewellery or for cosmetic removal. Malignant (cancerous): basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the 2 main types of non-melanoma skin cancers. Squamous cell skin cancers and melanoma are skin cancers that can spread to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment leads to better outcomes for patients. Surgery to remove skin lesions is usually done as a day surgical procedure under local anaesthesia. The area around the scar is numbed by injecting a local anaesthetic and the growth is removed, which can be done in a number of ways depending upon the growth and where it is. Dr Juber Hafiji will decide what the best approach is for you. Stitches are usually used to close the wound in layers and you are likely to have a dressing for protecting the operative site but also reduce swelling and bleeding. You may need to take time off work depending upon the surgical procedure you have had.

The appearance of scars can be improved by various methods including a surgical procedure known as scar revision. This usually involves cutting out the old scar, closing the wound with stitches and, in some cases, moving the scar so that it is hidden by natural features of the body. Scar revision is usually performed under local anaesthesia (the area around the scar is numbed by injecting a local anaesthetic). Sometimes you may also be given steroid injections at the time of surgery. You are likely to have a dressing post procedure to remain in position for a few days.

Excess skin can be surgically removed from your upper eyelids to give your skin a less wrinkled and more youthful appearance. The procedure typically involves making a small cut (incision) in the fold of the eyelid (for the upper lid). The surgery is performed under local anaesthetic as a day case procedure so that you will be able to go home the same day. You should take it easy post procedure to reduce swelling around the eyes and optimise wound healing. You should be able to return to work within one week.

The latest German designed technology with artificial intelligence delivered by a Specialist Dermatologist and registered nurses allows the early detection of skin cancer. By providing a full wrap around service, both detection of skin cancers and treatments are provided by the same team in a timely fashion ensuring continuity of care.

A cosmetically acceptable, highly effective treatment to treat a variety of skin conditions including sun damage thereby reducing the risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancers.

Laser treatments with the latest Sciton Joule X platform which treats all skin concerns, HALO laser, Injectables for facial rejuvenation, Ultraformer skin tightening, Platelet rich plasma, BBL treatments

At Dermatology Hawke's Bay, we treat all types of skin conditions. Our team is committed to giving you the highest quality care; providing prompt diagnosis, treatment and care for skin, hair and nail conditions. These include acne, psoriasis, eczema, rosacea and alopecia (hair loss).