Surgery for Benign Skin problems – What to Expect
While not all growths on skin are causes for concern, many can be irritating, unsightly or even painful. None of the skin growths are cancerous but may need medical attention.
Adopting timely diagnosis and treatment would be useful in preventing complications. Most benign lesions are harmless, but in some cases, they can grow, become irritated or masquerade as more ominous conditions. If you’ve ever found an odd or concerning growth on your skin, meeting with a specialist can offer clarity and peace of mind.
What Are Benign Skin Lesions?
A skin lesion is a patch of skin that is different from the surrounding skin in terms of colour or texture. They include the following benign varieties:
- Moles (naevi) – Darkened spots on the skin that are generally harmless.
- Skin tags – Usually seen in skin creases, skin tags are little, soft growths.
- Cysts – Lumps filled with fluid under the skin.
- Lipomas — Fatty deposits that can be nudged out of place.
- Warts – Rough growths, typically appearing on the hands and fingers, which are contagious and caused by viruses.
Benign growths are often uniformly pigmented, symmetrical, and steady in size, in contrast to worrisome lesions. But if you see a lesion that’s shifting in shape, bleeding, or causing you pain, get it looked at by a dermatologist.
Why Surgery Is Sometimes Necessary
While not all benign growths need removal, you may need surgery if:
- Observation is not enough — If a growth grows rapidly or is painful.
- Concerns about appearance: You may feel self-conscious if you have a lump that is visible.
- Friction or irritation – Sores on the neck or underarms may rub on clothing.
- Biopsy confirmation – For further workup of lesions that may be malignant.
Classifications of Surgeries for Benign Skin Lesions
Full Thickness Excision of the Skin
- When applied to deeper or larger growths, this technique entails cutting out the growth and then suturing the wound together. Usually, the removed tissue is sent for biopsy.
Shave Excision
- Great for raised lesions such as skin tags, this rapid treatment eliminates the surface growth with little to no scarring.
Curettage with or without Electrocautery
- The lesion is scraped (curettage) and an electric current cauterises bleeding. This may work well for seborrhoeic keratoses or tiny warts.
Cryotherapy
- The lesion freezes from liquid nitrogen, bubbles up, then scabs off. Best for: Small, superficial growths.
Laser Excision
- The lesion is carefully laser-vaporised and removed to reduce bleeding and hasten healing. Appropriate for select surface lesions.
What Happens During the Procedure
The majority of procedures are carried out under a local anaesthetic as an outpatient. The size and removal of the lesion will determine how long it takes. Aftercare is typically maintaining the area clean and dry during the healing process.
Risks and Recovery
Complications are unusual but may include:
- Minor bleeding or infection
- Temporary scarring
- Skin discolouration
Healing time tends to be less—ranging from days for smaller lesions to weeks for larger excisions. It is just as important to obey post-op instructions to obtain the best possible outcome.
When to Consult a Specialist
See a dermatologist if your skin’s lesions have:
- Differences in size, colour, or texture
- Bleeds, itches, or hurts
- Doesn’t heal over time
The prompt diagnosis provides a timely and safe management.
Final Thoughts
The majority of benign skin growths or lesions are innocuous, but eliminating them can make you feel more comfortable and look better. At Chase Lodge Hospital, we ensure our experienced staff are able to offer you the best treatment that is right for you.
If you are worried about a skin lesion, call now to make an appointment with our providers.
Doing something early gives you peace of mind and better skin. We are able to help you restore your confidence!
