Assessment and Removal of Skin Lesions
Skin lesion excision involves the assessment and surgical removal of a wide range of skin lesions, including benign and suspicious “lumps and bumps”.
The approach prioritises accurate diagnosis, complete removal where appropriate, and a careful aesthetic result—particularly in visible areas.
What Types of Lesions Are Treated
A variety of skin lesions may be assessed and removed, including:
- Moles (naevi)
- Cysts (including sebaceous and epidermoid cysts)
- Lipomas
- Skin tags
- Benign or irregular growths
- Suspicious or changing lesions
Each lesion is assessed individually to determine whether removal is appropriate and how best to proceed.
When Removal Is Recommended
Excision may be advised if a lesion:
- Is changing in size, shape, or colour
- Causes discomfort, irritation, or recurrent inflammation
- Is prone to infection or trauma
- Is cosmetically concerning
- Requires diagnosis to exclude skin cancer
Suspicious lesions are managed with particular care to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Assessment
A detailed assessment is carried out prior to treatment.
This includes:
- Clinical examination
- Consideration of risk factors and lesion history
Where there is any uncertainty, excision may be performed to allow histological (microscopic) analysis.
The Procedure
Excision is typically performed under local anaesthetic.
- The lesion is removed with an appropriate margin
- The area is carefully closed with sutures
- The technique is selected to optimise healing and minimise scarring
For visible areas such as the face, particular attention is paid to incision placement and closure.
Histological Analysis
Where appropriate, the removed tissue is sent for laboratory analysis.
This allows:
- Confirmation of the diagnosis
- Identification of any unexpected pathology
- Assurance that the lesion has been fully removed
This is particularly important for atypical or suspicious lesions.
Recovery
Recovery is usually straightforward.
- Sutures are typically removed within 5–14 days, depending on the site
- Mild swelling or discomfort settles quickly
- Scars improve gradually over several months
Clear aftercare advice is provided to support optimal healing.
Results
The aim of treatment is:
- Complete removal of the lesion
- Minimal recurrence
- A neat, well-healed scar
Outcomes are generally very good, particularly when lesions are treated early and with careful technique.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks:
- Scarring
- Infection or delayed healing (uncommon)
- Bleeding or bruising
- Recurrence of the lesion in some cases
- Unexpected findings on histology requiring further treatment
These risks are minimised through appropriate technique and aftercare.
When to Seek Advice
Any skin lesion that is:
- Changing
- Persistent
- Irregular
- Or of concern
should be assessed.
Early evaluation allows for simpler treatment and more predictable outcomes.
Consultation
A consultation allows for full assessment of your lesion and discussion of whether removal is appropriate.
Book a Consultation
For assessment and removal of skin lesions in London, arrange a consultation to discuss your options.