Excision of a Skin Lesion

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KEY POINTS

• An excision is a procedure to remove a growth (lesion) from your skin.
• You may have this procedure to remove a mole or other growth for cosmetic reasons or to check to see if it is cancer.
• Ask your provider how long it will take to recover and how to take care of yourself at home.
• Make sure you know what symptoms or problems you should watch for and what to do if you have them.

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What is excision of a skin lesion?

An excision is a procedure to remove a growth (lesion) from your skin.

When is it used?

You may have this procedure to remove a mole or other growth for cosmetic reasons or to check to see if it is cancer. You may also have a lesion removed if it rubs against your clothing or is uncomfortable.

How do I prepare for this procedure?

• You may or may not need to take your regular medicines the day of the procedure. Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements that you take. Some products may increase your risk of side effects. Ask your healthcare provider if you need to avoid taking any medicine or supplements before the procedure.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you have any food, medicine, or other allergies such as latex.
• Follow any other instructions your healthcare provider gives you.
• Ask any questions you have before the procedure. You should understand what your healthcare provider is going to do. You have the right to make decisions about your healthcare and to give permission for tests or procedures.

What happens during the procedure?

You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area. Your provider will cut a patch of skin around the lesion. He will remove the patch of skin with the lesion and then close the wound with stitches, staples, skin glue, or surgical tape.

If there’s any concern that the lesion might have cancer cells, it can be sent to the lab to be checked for cancer.

What happens after the procedure?

You may stay at the hospital or healthcare provider's office for a short time. The area where the lesion was removed may be sore for a couple of days. When it heals, there will be a scar.

It is important to follow the instructions your provider gives you for caring for the wound after the surgery. This can prevent infection and help create the smallest, least visible scar. Ask your provider:

• How and when you will get your test results
• How long it will take to recover
• If there are activities you should avoid and when you can return to your normal activities
• How to take care of yourself at home
• What symptoms or problems you should watch for and what to do if you have them

Make sure you know when you should come back for a checkup. Keep all appointments for provider visits or tests.

What are the risks of this procedure?

Every procedure or treatment has risks. Some possible risks of this procedure include:

• You may have problems with anesthesia.
• You may have infection or bleeding.
• The lesion may grow back.
• A lumpy scar called a keloid may form where the lesion was.

Ask your healthcare provider how these risks apply to you. Be sure to discuss any other questions or concerns that you may have.