What Are Skin Excision Treatments?
Skin excision treatments are minor surgical procedures designed to remove abnormal or problematic skin lesions in their entirety. Commonly used techniques include elliptical excision for clean margins, laser-assisted excision for delicate areas, and shave excision for raised or superficial lesions. At Shine Dermatology, treatment selection depends on the lesion’s type, depth, location, and your overall skin health, ensuring precise removal with cosmetic preservation.
Treatment Techniques We Offer
Elliptical Excision
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Mechanism: Oval-shaped surgical removal followed by layered sutures for secure closure.
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Best For: Suspicious moles, cysts, or basal cell carcinomas.
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Protocol: Completed in 20–40 minutes; sutures are typically removed in 7–14 days.
Laser Excision
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Mechanism: CO₂ laser vaporizes tissue with minimal bleeding and heat damage to surrounding skin.
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Best For: Seborrheic keratoses, facial growths, or patients with keloid risk.
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Protocol: 1 session; no sutures required. Healing typically within 1–2 weeks.
Shave Excision
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Mechanism: A surgical blade removes raised lesions at the skin surface.
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Best For: Benign skin tags, superficial papillomas.
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Protocol: 5–10 minutes; topical antibiotic applied post-procedure.
How Skin Excision Works
After local anaesthesia is administered, your dermatologist outlines the lesion’s margins and performs the excision using the appropriate technique. The site is closed with sutures or treated with laser coagulation depending on the method. Tissue samples are sent for histopathological analysis to confirm diagnosis and guide any further treatment if necessary.
When to Consider Skin Excision
You may benefit from skin excision if you have:
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Suspicious Lesions: Moles that change in shape, colour, or size.
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Symptomatic Growths: Painful, inflamed, or infected cysts and tumors.
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Cosmetic Concerns: Visible or protruding growths on the face, hands, or body.
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Recurrent Issues: Lesions that have returned after previous removal.
Recovery & Aftercare
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Elliptical Excision: 1 session; sutures removed in 7–14 days. Avoid strenuous activity for one week.
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Laser/Shave Excision: Resume regular activity the same day. Keep wound clean and dry.
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Infected Lesions: May require antibiotics or additional wound care.
Safety Measures and Risk Management
At Shine Dermatology, we follow strict surgical protocols to ensure patient safety and reduce the risk of complications:
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Infection Risk: <2% with sterile technique; antibiotics prescribed if indicated.
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Scarring: Most scars fade over 6–12 months; silicone gels aid healing.
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Recurrence: <5% for benign lesions; excisions are performed with clear margins to minimise regrowth.
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Post-Op Care: Avoid sun exposure, follow wound care instructions, and return for follow-up reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is skin excision painful?
No. The area is numbed with local anaesthetic. Any post-procedure discomfort is mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does the procedure take?
Most treatments are completed in 10–40 minutes depending on lesion size and technique used.
Will there be a scar?
Yes, all surgical excisions leave a scar. However, our techniques aim to minimise scarring, and scars typically fade with proper care.
Can I shower after the procedure?
Yes, after 24–48 hours. Pat the area dry gently and avoid soaking. Use a waterproof dressing if advised.
What should I do to prepare for my appointment?
Avoid blood-thinning medications (like aspirin or ibuprofen) 48 hours before the procedure. Let your doctor know about any medical conditions or medications.
When will I receive my pathology results?
Results are typically available within 7–14 days and will be discussed during your follow-up.
What happens if the lesion is cancerous?
Your dermatologist will advise on further steps, which may include a wider excision or referral for additional care.
Are there non-surgical alternatives?
Yes, some superficial lesions may respond to topical treatments or cryotherapy. However, excision offers complete removal and is preferred for suspicious or deeper growths.
Is the procedure suitable for children?
Yes. Children can undergo excision under local anaesthesia, with or without sedation, depending on age and comfort level.
How soon can I resume exercise?
Light activity is fine after the first day. Avoid strenuous movement, swimming, or sweating for 1–2 weeks to prevent wound reopening.
What is the difference between excision and biopsy?
A biopsy samples part of a lesion for diagnosis; excision removes the entire lesion, often serving both diagnostic and treatment purposes.
Can the lesion grow back?
Rarely. If fully removed, recurrence is uncommon. We monitor healing and follow up if necessary.
Is laser excision better than traditional surgery?
Laser excision is ideal for delicate or vascular areas and offers less bleeding. Elliptical excision offers better control for ensuring full removal, especially for suspicious lesions.
How can I reduce scarring?
Follow post-op care, apply silicone gel or sheets, and avoid sun exposure. Laser scar revision may be offered if needed.
Are there activity restrictions?
Yes. Avoid tight clothing, trauma to the site, and certain skincare or makeup until the wound has healed.
Book a Consultation Today
Take the first step toward clearer, healthier skin. Contact Shine Dermatology to schedule your consultation and receive expert guidance on lesion removal and post-procedure care.
