Removal of a skin lesion refers to a surgical procedure performed to eliminate an abnormal growth or mark on the skin. Skin lesions can include moles, skin tags, cysts, lipomas, and other benign or potentially malignant growths. Removing these lesions is often done for diagnostic or cosmetic reasons or to prevent potential health issues.
How it works: removal of a skin lesion
Anaesthesia: local anaesthesia
Recovery time: few days
Results: immediately
Removal of a skin lesion refers to a surgical procedure performed to eliminate an abnormal growth or mark on the skin. Skin lesions can include moles, skin tags, cysts, lipomas, and other benign or potentially malignant growths.
The procedure to remove a skin lesion can vary depending on the type, size, and location of the lesion. The procedure is often done for diagnostic or cosmetic reasons or to prevent potential health issues.
If you have a skin lesion that concerns you or if you are considering its removal for cosmetic reasons, it is essential to consult with a specialised plastic surgeon, who can recommend the most appropriate removal method, and ensure an effective and aesthetically pleasing reconstruction.
Removal of a skin lesion is indicated for all (potentially) malignant skin lesions. It is also a good procedure for benign skin lesions when you have a cosmetic concern.
During your consultation, Dr. Gino Vissers will assess your skin and the lesion, and determine whether you are a good candidate for removal of a skin lesion.
Removal of a skin lesion can treat any of the following issues:
Dr. Gino Vissers performs most skin surgery procedures under local anaesthesia.
After the area has been numbed, the entire lesion is cut out with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. Using electrosurgery, a high-frequency electrical current, Dr. Gino Vissers stops any small bleeding that may be present. The wound is then closed with stitches, and a dressing is applied to aid wound healing.
As an alternative, shave excisions for superficial lesions may be performed. During a shave excision, Dr. Gino Vissers shaves off the top layers of the lesion until it is level with the surrounding skin. No stitches are typically required for this method.
In all cases, the removed tissue will be sent for biopsy to determine if the lesion is benign or potentially malignant.
Recovery after removal of a skin lesion typically involves a short downtime. The wound must be kept clean and dry to minimise infection risks. After 48 hours you can have a quick shower, but bathing or swimming must be avoided for two weeks. Minimise strenuous activities or sports for 2 weeks to allow time for the wound to mend.
Dr. Gino Vissers will provide detailed post-operative instructions to promote optimal healing and ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery process. If stitches are used, Dr. Gino Vissers will inform you if and when these need to be removed.
You will be provided with an appointment to discuss your biopsy results with Dr. Gino Vissers, and if further treatment will be necessary.
You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Gino Vissers to get his specialist opinion on skin lesions. Dr. Gino Vissers will carefully assess your skin lesion and determine what the best management plan would be.
Yes. For safety purposes, Dr. Gino Vissers sends off a biopsy of all skin lesions that are surgically removed.
Like any surgical procedure, removal of a skin lesion has some minor risks, including bleeding, wound problems, and infections. Dr. Gino Vissers will inform you about your specific potential risks and benefits prior to your surgery.
This will depend on your individual situation. Dr. Gino Vissers will assess your skin lesions and determine whether they are suitable for removal in one procedure. However, due to the limited dosage of local anaesthesia that can be administered during one operation, sometimes this may not be possible.
Dr. Gino Vissers
BSc MMed MD BHSC MMed FCCP FEBOPRAS FRCS(Plast) PGCert(Dermoscopy)
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101 Harley Street, London, W1G 6AH
6 Market Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4LB
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