Skin, Lumps & Minor Procedures
About this service
Foreign body removal is a minor procedure performed in our rooms at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek to take out an object that has become lodged just under the skin, such as a splinter, thorn, or small piece of glass or metal. Left in place, a foreign body can cause ongoing pain, irritation, or infection, so prompt removal is usually recommended.
Your doctor will examine the area, often numb it locally, and carefully remove the object before cleaning and, if needed, dressing the wound. This procedure is typically completed within a single visit, with clear aftercare advice given before you leave.
What to expect
- Your doctor examines the site and feels for exactly where the object sits
- Local anaesthetic is usually injected around the object before removal
- The splinter, thorn or fragment is eased out through a small opening in the skin
- The wound is rinsed clean and dressed, and your doctor may check that your tetanus cover is up to date
- You leave with advice on keeping the wound clean and which signs of infection to watch for
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A splinter, thorn, or small object stuck under the skin
- Ongoing pain or irritation at the site of an injury
- Redness or swelling around a suspected foreign body
- A wound that has not healed properly
- Concern about infection around an embedded object
Frequently asked questions
Can a splinter or thorn be removed at Eastgate Clinic on the same day?
Yes. Foreign body removal is done in our rooms during your consultation, so in most cases the splinter, thorn or glass fragment comes out at the same visit you are seen.
What happens if a foreign body is left under the skin?
An object left in place can keep the area painful and may lead to infection or a wound that will not settle. Book promptly if you notice spreading redness, swelling or pus around the site.
Will foreign body removal hurt?
Your doctor usually numbs the area with local anaesthetic first, so you should feel pressure rather than sharp pain while the object is worked free. The site may be tender for a day or two afterwards.
Ready to book your foreign body removal?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.