Published on 20 November 2025
Benenden Hospital stood out as the ideal place for Jackie to have two long-standing facial lumps removed. Inspired to book a consultation with Consultant Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon Mr Simon Mackey, Jackie found the experience reassuring from start to finish. Discover her plastic and cosmetic surgery story.
Why did you choose Benenden Hospital to get your facial lumps removed?
“It began right at the end of 2024 when I booked a consultation with their Consultant Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon, Mr Simon Mackey. I decided it was a good opportunity for him to take a look at two small lumps on my chin, that I’d had for many years, if not always!”
How accommodating was our Plastic and Cosmetic surgery team?
“Although it was a minor issue, he was patient, interested and not at all patronising when making the initial assessment and explaining my treatment options. After my initial consultation, I had two further appointments to ask any further questions, clarify what was going to happen and sign the necessary consent forms.
“All these appointments were also in the presence of a Cosmetic Nurse, and they worked well together, putting me at ease. They explained how the lumps on my chin would be removed and be sent off to confirm they were benign. The operation was arranged within a few weeks, fitting in with my personal circumstances as I had a wedding in April!”
What happened on the day of your surgery?
Private room
"The day of the operation arrived. I was asked to arrive in good time and settle into my private ward room, which was complete with a TV and a huge bathroom. I had to wait to clarify whether I could eat before my surgery, which was only a local anaesthetic. I saw Mr Mackey before the operation and he was able to confirm, allowing me to enjoy my lunch. Everyone at Benenden Hospital was very polite and helped keep me calm, because I am not used to the hospital environment.”
Operating theatre
“A nurse escorted me to the operating theatre, and Mr Mackey and his team were ready and in good humour. Mr Mackey was methodical and professional, explaining everything as we went along. This included saying that administering the local anaesthetic might be uncomfortable. But he gave me a technique to distract myself; taking deep breaths and wiggling my toes, which surprisingly worked! The removal of the lumps didn't actually hurt at all and didn't take very long either.”
Initial recovery
“Mr Mackey told me about the type of dressing, how long to keep them dry and when they could be removed. I was then taken to a recovery room for a short time and then escorted back to my room. After a little while I was informed that if I was okay and had no side effects, it was fine for me to drive myself home. All went well!”
What support did you receive after you had the lumps removed?
“I was given a follow up appointment, where Mr Mackey and his Plastic Surgery Specialist Nurse, and I all agreed that the scars looked very good. They were still a little lumpy, but I was assured that with continued massaging this would reduce. To ensure the scars could heal as well as possible, I was to continue massaging them with an SPF moisturiser.
Are you happy with the outcome of the procedure?
“I was very satisfied with the results, and they have continued to improve, so I am pleased with the outcome and glad I had the lumps removed.
“At my follow up appointment I was also told I could start wearing make-up again, which was just in time for the wedding!”
Private plastic and cosmetic surgery at Benenden Hospital
You can book your initial plastic and cosmetic surgery consultation through our online booking tool. To find out more about our other plastic and cosmetic procedures please complete our online enquiry form, contact us via Livechat or call our Private Patient team on 01580 363158.