What to expect from excisional surgery for neurofibroma

A neurofibroma is a growth involving nerve-sheath tissue, so the surgical plan depends on whether it is superficial, broad, or close to an important nerve. The clinician discusses the expected incision and whether local or another form of anaesthetic is suitable. The lump is removed as safely as possible, then the skin is closed or dressed. Tissue may be examined to clarify the diagnosis. Temporary tenderness, swelling, altered sensation, or a tight feeling can occur near the wound while it heals.

Share any numbness, tingling, weakness, previous operations, medicines, or bleeding concerns before treatment. Keep the dressing and wound care routine exactly as advised. Avoid rubbing the site and postpone strenuous movement that pulls on the closure. Take prescribed or recommended pain relief as directed. Once the wound has closed, ask about scar care and sun protection. Attend follow-up so the clinician can inspect healing and discuss the tissue examination. [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/) explains the general procedure.

Report persistent or increasing numbness, new weakness, worsening pain, spreading redness, marked swelling, drainage, or wound separation. Contact the team quickly if bleeding continues after pressure. Seek urgent help for severe weakness, uncontrolled bleeding, faintness, or breathing difficulty. A lump that returns or a new rapidly enlarging, painful, or firm lump needs assessment, especially when it is accompanied by a change in sensation.

Ask how close the lump is to a nerve, what sensation changes are possible, whether tissue will be examined, what activity to avoid, and when follow-up should occur.