PROCEDURES
Excision of Benign Lesions/Moles
What is the surgical excision of moles or benign skin lesions?
Skin excision is the surgical removal of moles or benign lesions on the surface of the skin. This can be done by cutting or shaving the affected region.
A mole is a large or small spot on the skin that could signify melanoma, particularly if the mole has changed shape, colour and size. Mostly, moles are harmless overgrowths that contain pigment cells. They start as flat brown or dark-coloured spots that, over time, protrude from the skin's surface. Moles are typically referred to as birthmarks or beauty marks. Usually, benign or malignant moles can be treated by cutting, burning or freezing them off.
How do you perform the excision of benign lesions or moles?
Excision of the mole or suspicious lesion can be done in the dermatologist's room. This is a quick procedure that only lasts a few minutes. First, Dr Ndongeni sterilises and numbs the area so you won’t feel any pain. Then, he uses a scalpel to peel the mole from the skin’s surface. Depending on the mole type, your dermatologist will remove a healthy skin margin to ensure atypical (abnormal) cells are removed. Next, a forceps is used to grasp the skin segment so that the mole is removed swiftly.
Different types of mole excision exist, such as the following:
- Shave excision involves shaving away the mole using a scalpel blade.
- Punch excision involves twisting the mole out with a tiny apparatus.
- Surgical resection is only used for large moles. Sometimes, a plastic surgeon may be asked to work with the dermatologist, depending on the mole’s location and size.
You will need to take care of the surgical area by adhering to wound care instructions provided by your dermatologist. You should sterilise the wound as advised by your dermatologist.
Mole excision is a crucial surgical procedure for preventing the further development of malignant skin cancer. It addresses cosmetic issues or irritation caused by moles.
Four types of moles include the following: The mole removal process can take between ten minutes to an hour, depending on your assessment (i.e. the mole’s depth and size). Normally, the stitches remain for at least two to four weeks. The mole should only grow back if the residual cells that make up the mole are left as is.
