Skin Lesion Removal


Schedule your procedure in El Campo, TX

SCHEDULE NOW

What are Skin Lesions?

A skin lesion is an area of the skin that has an abnormal growth of appearance. There are many different conditions that may result in different types of skin lesions. Some examples of common lesions that may need to be removed include warts, moles, skin tags, squamous cell carcinoma, sebaceous cysts, lipomas, and more.

There are a number of reasons for skin lesion removal, including:

  • The lesion is precancerous or cancerous.
  • The lesion has caused chronic skin irritation.
  • Cosmetic preference in the case of benign skin lesions.

If you ever notice a new growth or lesion that has appeared, or if you have a lesion that bleeds, scabbed over, grows over time, or changes color, be sure to see a dermatologist right away. It is always safer to have a suspicious-looking lesion checked out than have to deal with complications such as skin cancer later on.

Removal Options for Skin Lesions

There are a number of different removal techniques available for skin lesions. Most patients are awake during these procedures, and numbing medicine will be used in the treatment area to ensure your comfort. In some cases, stitches may be used to close the wound. There is generally little to no downtime required following lesion removal, so patients can return to their everyday routines as soon as they feel comfortable. Removal treatment options include:

  • Biopsy: Your doctor will remove a small part of the lesion. The sample is then sent to be examined under a microscope to see if there are any cancer cells present.
  • Skin Excision: The entire lesion is cut out, as well as a margin of healthy surrounding skin.
  • Cryosurgery: Liquid nitrogen will be used to freeze and destroy skin cells. The lesion will fall off over time.
  • Mohs Surgery: During Mohs surgery, the doctor will remove tissues layer by layer, starting at the skin’s surface to check for cancer cells.
  • Curettage: A special tool is used to scrape away areas of the lesion.
  • Laser Surgery: A special laser device is used to destroy skin lesions.

Depending on the type of lesion that was removed, there may be a chance that it grows back over time, requiring further surgery. Dr. Erwin can discuss this with you prior to your procedure.

Skin Lesion Removal Aftercare

Following lesion removal, our team will provide in-depth instructions regarding how to care for your incision or treated area. In cases where a wound is present, be sure to keep the wound bandaged and dry for at least the first day. After 24-48 hours, gently wash the wound as directed. Do not use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which may slow healing. You may also be directed to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly and a nonstick bandage. Dr. Erwin will also inform you when you can restart medications. Be sure to ask if you can take over-the-counter pain medicine, if needed.

If you experience increased pain, severe redness, swelling, or inflammation, or if your open wound doesn’t heal, please contact our office as soon as possible. These may be signs of an infection.

Ideal Candidates for Skin Lesion Removal

Individuals who have any type of skin lesion that is bothersome, painful, or unsightly can often benefit from skin lesion removal. Those who smoke, have suppressed immune system, or who have bleeding disorders or circulatory problems may not be good candidates for this treatment. An assessment by Dr. Erwin is the first step needed to properly diagnose and treat your skin lesion for the best possible results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common methods for removing skin lesions? Several techniques are used for skin lesion removal, including:

Complete excision (excision biopsy)rnPartial removal (shave biopsy)rnHeat treatment (electrocautery)rnFreezing (cryotherapy)rnLaser therapyrnCurettage (scooping away)rnPhotodynamic therapy (PDT)

Is skin lesion removal painful?

Most skin lesion removal procedures are performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area being treated. You may feel some pressure or discomfort during the procedure, but it should not be painful. After the procedure, you might experience some mild pain or soreness, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

What are the potential risks and complications of skin lesion removal? Some potential risks include:

InfectionrnScarringrnBleedingrnChanges in skin colorrnPoor wound healingrnNerve damagernRecurrence of the lesionrnAllergic reactions to anesthesia or other materials used

How long does recovery take after skin lesion removal?

The initial healing process typically occurs over 2-3 weeks. However, complete remodeling and strengthening of the wound can continue for 6 to 12 months following the surgery. The exact recovery time depends on the size and location of the lesion, as well as the removal method used.

Will there be a scar after skin lesion removal?

Some degree of scarring is usually inevitable after skin lesion removal. However, the visibility of the scar depends on various factors, including the size and location of the lesion, the removal technique used, and your individual healing characteristics. Your doctor will typically try to minimize scarring by placing incisions along natural skin lines or creases when possible.

See All

Contact Us Today

If you would like to learn more about skin lesion removal and if you are a good candidate, contact our office today by calling 979-543-9933! We will be happy to assist you in scheduling your first appointment with Dr. Erwin, during which she can assess your lesion to determine the best plan of action.