Skin lesion removal

What is skin lesion removal?

Skin lesion removal is a minor surgical procedure used to remove unwanted or concerning lesions on or just beneath the skin. It’s sometimes referred to as skin growth removal or excision biopsy, depending on the type of lesion being treated.

Skin lesions can include:

• Moles
• Skin tags
• Epidermoid (sebaceous) cysts – non-cancerous bumps under the skin
• Lipomas (non-cancerous fatty lumps)
• Seborrhoeic keratoses – non-cancerous skin growths
• Dermatofibromas – non-cancerous rubbery, pinkish bumps (skin growth).

Many lesions are benign (non-cancerous) and can be safely left alone. But if a lesion changes, becomes uncomfortable, catches on clothing, affects your confidence, or needs to be checked for medical reasons, skin lesion removal may be recommended.

What causes skin lesions?

Skin lesions can develop for many reasons, including:

• Genetics
• Sun exposure
• Ageing
• Hormonal changes
• Blocked hair follicles
• Trauma to the skin
• Benign overgrowths of skin or fatty tissue.

Most lesions are harmless, but some require assessment to rule out skin cancer or other conditions, which your consultant will identify with you should this be the case.

What types of skin lesions can be removed?

Most benign skin lesions can be removed safely, including:

• Moles
• Skin tags
• Lipomas
• Epidermoid cysts
• Seborrhoeic keratoses
• Dermatofibromas
• Small benign tumours.

How do I know if a skin lesion is dangerous?

A skin lesion may need medical assessment if it:

• Changes in size, shape or colour
• Bleeds or crusts
• Becomes painful or itchy
• Has irregular borders
• Appears suddenly
• Looks different from your other moles (“the ugly duckling sign”).

Dermatology guidelines recommend the “ABCDE rule” (Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolving) to help identify suspicious moles. Your consultant will examine the lesion and may recommend removal for diagnosis.

When should you consider skin lesion removal?

You may want to consider skin lesion removal if the skin lesion:

• Causes irritation or catches on clothing
• Affects your confidence
• Is painful or inflamed
• Has changed in appearance
• Needs biopsy to rule out cancer
• Interferes with daily activities.

How do I know which skin lesion removal technique is right for me?

Your consultant will recommend the most suitable method based on:

• The type of skin lesion
• Skin lesion size and depth
• The location of the skin lesion
• Whether the skin lesion needs a biopsy
• Your skin type and medical history.

Who is suitable for skin lesion removal?

Most people are suitable for this minor procedure. It may be recommended if you:

• Have a benign skin lesion causing discomfort or concern
• Need a skin lesion removed for diagnostic reasons
• Want a skin lesion removed for cosmetic reasons
• Are in good general health.

Who is not suitable for skin lesion removal?

You may not be suitable if you:

• Have an active skin infection
• Have uncontrolled medical conditions
• Are taking certain medications that affect healing
• Are pregnant (depending on the skin lesion and technique).

Your consultant will discuss this with you during your assessment.

How can I prepare for skin lesion removal?

Your surgeon may advise you to:

• Avoid certain medications (if recommended)
• Keep the area clean
• Arrange time off work if the skin lesion is in a sensitive area
• Wear loose clothing on the day.

What happens at my skin lesion removal consultation?

Your consultation includes:

• A full examination of the skin lesion
• Discussion of your symptoms and concerns
• Assessment of whether skin lesion removal is necessary
• Explanation of skin lesion removal techniques
• Discussion of scarring, risks and aftercare
• A personalised treatment plan.

What happens on the day of my skin lesion removal?

Skin lesion removal is usually performed under local anaesthetic, meaning the area of skin is numbed but you remain awake. The procedure typically takes between 15–45 minutes, depending on the lesion.

The skin is cleaned with an antibacterial solution, and a sterile drape may be placed around the area.

What happens during skin lesion removal?

The technique depends on the type of skin lesion:

Epidermoid cyst removal

A small oval incision is made over the cyst, allowing the surgeon to remove the entire sac to reduce the chance of recurrence.

Lipoma removal

A straight incision is made over the lump. The lipoma (non-cancerous fatty lump) is gently freed from surrounding tissue and removed.

Skin tag removal

The area is numbed, and the skin tag is removed using a blade, diathermy (to seal blood vessels), or a freezing technique.

Mole removal

The mole is removed using an oval excision to allow for smooth stitching and healing.

All removed tissue is placed in a specimen jar and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The wound is then closed with stitches and covered with a dressing.

Pain is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter medication.

How long does it take to recover from skin lesion removal?

Your recovery journey is usually quick.

Common experiences

• Mild soreness
• Light swelling
• A small scar that fades over time.

General recovery guidance

• Keep the wound clean and dry
• Avoid strenuous activity for a few days
• Follow dressing change instructions
• Avoid soaking the wound until advised
• Protect the area from sun exposure.

Stitches and follow-up

• Stitches are usually removed 7–14 days after the procedure
• You may be asked to return for a wound check
• Biopsy results will be shared by your consultant or GP.

Most people return to work the next day unless the area is under tension or friction.

What are the risks and complications of skin lesion removal?

Skin lesion removal is generally considered to be a safe procedure, but all surgeries can carry risks. Possible complications include:

General risks

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Wound breakdown.

Specific risks

• Recurrence of cysts or lipomas
• Need for a larger excision if margins are unclear
• Pigment changes in the skin.

What could happen if I leave a skin lesion untreated?

Most benign skin lesions are harmless. However, leaving a skin lesion untreated may lead to:

• Continued irritation
• Infection (especially cysts)
• Growth or changes in appearance
• Delayed diagnosis of skin cancer.

If a skin lesion changes or concerns you, it’s important to seek medical advice.

How much does skin lesion removal cost at Nuffield Health?

Select your local Nuffield Health hospital to find contact details and guide prices for skin lesion removal. Please note that the guide price stated is an approximate cost of treatment only. You will be given a fixed all-inclusive price for treatment following your initial consultation with a consultant.