Does a dermatologic surgery perform surgical excision?

Surgical excision removes a lesion together with a margin of nearby skin chosen for the clinical situation. It may be considered for a changing, bothersome or suspicious mole, cyst, growth or other lesion. The area is numbed, the lesion is removed, and the wound is closed with stitches or another suitable method. The removed tissue may be examined in a laboratory, which can help clarify the diagnosis and whether further care is needed.

Before the procedure, tell the surgeon about medicines, allergies, bleeding problems and previous scars. Follow instructions about washing the area and medicines on the day. Keep the wound protected afterwards, avoid stretching the site and attend any stitch-removal or result appointment. Do not judge the final scar while the skin is still healing; its texture and colour can change over time.

Get prompt advice if the wound opens, becomes increasingly painful, develops spreading redness, drains pus or is accompanied by fever. Seek urgent help for bleeding that does not stop with firm continuous pressure, or for sudden swelling affecting breathing or swallowing.

Ask why excision is being recommended, how much skin may be removed, how the wound will be closed and when results should be available. Clarify activity restrictions, scar care and what would happen if the tissue examination calls for additional treatment.