Which specialist performs surgical excision?

Surgical excision removes a skin lesion with a planned margin of surrounding tissue when appropriate. A dermatologic surgeon evaluates the lesion’s size, depth, location, and appearance, then chooses a closure that suits the body area. The removed tissue may be sent for laboratory examination so its nature can be identified. Excision can be used for a changing mole, cyst, benign growth, scar, or a lesion that needs a definitive diagnosis.

The specialist also explains whether the procedure uses local anaesthetic, how the wound will be closed, and whether stitches need removal. The expected scar depends on the lesion, its position, the direction of the closure, and individual healing.

Arrange an assessment with a dermatologic surgeon and bring any earlier reports, photographs, or biopsy information about the lesion. Tell the clinician about medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, implanted devices, and previous reactions to anaesthetic. Ask whether the whole lesion will be removed, how the specimen will be assessed, what wound care is required, and when normal activities can resume. Do not pick, cut, or try to remove the lesion yourself.

Arrange prompt review for a lesion that is changing in colour, shape, or size, repeatedly bleeding, crusting, ulcerating, or not healing. After excision, contact the treating team for bleeding that does not settle with firm pressure, spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus-like drainage, fever, wound separation, or pain that is getting worse. These signs need assessment rather than home treatment alone.

Ask: Why is excision suitable for this lesion? Will the specimen go to a laboratory? What margin or closure do you expect? How should I care for the wound? When will results and stitch removal happen? What changes should I report after the procedure?