Skin Lesion Removal

Removal of an abnormal growth on the skin, called a lesion, for medical or cosmetic reasons. Skin lesions include warts, moles, and skin tags.

Parts of the Body Involved

Skin surface

Reasons for Procedure

  • Lesion is precancerous or cancerous
  • Lesion has created a chronic skin irritation
  • Cosmetic preference

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

  • Immunosuppression, bleeding disorders, or circulatory problems (such as diabetes), which can lead to healing problems
  • Heart valve conditions, which increase the risk for inflammation of the heart's inner lining after surgery

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure - Follow instructions given by your doctor. Generally, no special preparation is required.

During Procedure - Anesthesia

Anesthesia - Local

Description of the Procedure - The area will be cleaned, and the skin surrounding the lesion will be numbed by a local anesthetic. Techniques for skin lesion removal vary depending on the reason for removal and lesion location. Common techniques include:
  • Removal with scalpel

Outcome

In general, non-cancerous lesions are permanently removed and should not recur after this procedure. The skin surface should be healed within a few weeks.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site