Skin Lesion Removal
by
Editorial Staff And Contributors DefinitionThis is the removal of an abnormal growth on the skin, called a lesion, for medical or cosmetic reasons. Skin lesions can include warts, moles, cancers, and skin tags.
Reasons for Procedure TOP
Possible Complications TOPProblems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
What to Expect TOPPrior to ProcedureGenerally, no special preparation is required. AnesthesiaLocal anesthesia will be used. It will make the area numb. Description of the Procedure TOPThe area will be cleaned. The skin surrounding the lesion will be numbed by anesthesia. Techniques for skin lesion removal vary depending on the reason for removal and lesion location. Common techniques include:
After the lesion is removed, stitches will be used to close the hole left in the skin. Clean stickers may also be used to help keep the skin closed. A bandage will be placed over the area. How Long Will It Take? TOPThis depends on which procedure is used. Most are completed within 20 minutes. Will It Hurt? TOPAnesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. You may have some discomfort at the surgery site after the procedure. Post-procedure Care TOPWhen you get home:
Stitches will be left in the skin for 3-14 days, depending on where they are located. Call Your Doctor TOPIt is important to monitor your recovery. Alert your doctor to any problems. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. RESOURCES:American Academy of Dermatology https://www.aad.org Skin Cancer Foundation http://www.skincancer.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Cancer Society http://www.cancer.ca Canadian Dermatology Association http://dermatology.ca References:Diagnostic tests for skin disorders. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated June 2016. Accessed September 5, 2017.
Melanoma. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115302/Melanoma
. Updated June 27, 2017. Accessed September 5, 2017.
Pickett H. Shave and punch biopsy for skin lesions. Am Fam Physician. 2011;84(9):995-1002.
6/2/2011 DynaMed Plus Systematic Literature Surveillance
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Last reviewed September 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Donald W. Buck II, MD Last Updated: 9/30/2013 |
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