Cosmetic Surgery · Body · Face
Surgical Excision of Skin Lesions
Skin lesion excision removes a bothersome or medically suspicious lesion and, when needed, allows laboratory examination for a precise diagnosis. Wound closure is tailored to the lesion's size, location and clinical nature.
The treatment
What is
Surgical Excision of Skin Lesions?
Surgical excision of a skin lesion is a minor surgical procedure in which a skin growth is completely removed. Examples include a mole, cyst, bothersome benign lesion or a lesion whose appearance requires laboratory assessment. Not every skin lesion needs to be removed. The decision depends on its appearance, changes over time, symptoms, location and the suspected diagnosis.
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. After the area is cleaned and marked, an anesthetic injection numbs the skin. The clinician then removes the lesion with a scalpel, sometimes including a small margin of normal-looking skin when medically appropriate. The patient may feel pressure or pulling but should not feel sharp pain during the excision.
Depending on the size and location of the removed area, the wound may be closed directly with stitches. If direct closure is not suitable, the wound may be left to heal naturally, or a nearby skin flap or, less commonly, a skin graft may be required. Every surgical excision leaves a permanent scar. Its final appearance depends on factors such as the site, lesion size, surgical technique and the patient's individual healing response.
When indicated, the removed tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory for microscopic examination. This can confirm the nature of the lesion and, depending on the diagnosis, help determine whether it has been completely removed. The time needed for the report varies according to the laboratory and the tests required. If a malignant lesion is diagnosed or the margins are not sufficient, further excision or specialist follow-up may be necessary.
Complications are generally uncommon but can include bleeding, bruising, infection, wound opening, a visible or thickened scar, temporary or persistent changes in sensation, delayed healing, recurrence or incomplete excision. Lesions located close to a nerve or another important structure may carry additional risks, which should be discussed before treatment.
Why choose this treatment
- Completely removes a skin lesion when surgical excision is indicated
- Can provide tissue for pathology testing to clarify the diagnosis
- Usually performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia
How it works
The treatment
process.
Before the procedure
Before the procedure, the clinician examines the lesion and reviews your medical history, allergies and medications. Report blood thinners, antiplatelet medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements that may affect bleeding. Never stop or change prescribed medication unless the clinician responsible for your care has advised you to do so. Also tell the medical team if you have a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator. Depending on the lesion, photographs or dermoscopy may be performed. Follow the clinic's specific instructions about skin care and attending on the day of surgery.
During the procedure
The skin is cleaned and the area to be removed is marked. Local anesthetic is injected and allowed a few minutes to fully numb the site. The clinician removes the lesion with a scalpel to the depth and, when required, with the margin appropriate for the clinical indication. Bleeding is controlled. The wound is usually closed with stitches; depending on its size or location, a flap, graft or healing without immediate closure may be preferable. A dressing is then applied. The specimen is sent for pathology examination when laboratory analysis is indicated.
After the procedure
After excision, the area may be tender, swollen, mildly bruised or numb. Follow the instructions for the dressing, wound cleaning and removal of stitches. Avoid strenuous activity and stretching the area while it heals. Mild discomfort is common as the anesthetic wears off. Contact the medical team for bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, increasing pain, spreading redness, swelling, fever or unusual discharge. Pathology results and any need for additional treatment are explained during follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
What you'd like
to know before your session.
Surgical Excision of Skin Lesions · Cosmetic Surgery · Body · Face
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Surgical Excision of Skin Lesions?
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