Some skin growths need more than observation or a surface-level treatment. When a lesion needs to be completely removed, your dermatologist may recommend a surgical excision. This common dermatologic procedure can be used to remove certain skin cancers, atypical moles, cysts, and other growths while allowing the removed tissue to be examined when necessary.
At Benstock Dermatology, Dr. Elizabeth Benstock performs minor surgical procedures with careful attention to your comfort, skin health, and healing. Each procedure begins with a thorough evaluation so you understand why an excision is recommended and what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
What Is a Skin Excision?
A skin excision is a procedure in which a dermatologist surgically removes a lesion along with an appropriate amount of surrounding tissue when necessary. The procedure is typically performed in the office using local anesthesia, meaning the treatment area is numbed while you remain awake and comfortable.
After the lesion is removed, the skin is generally closed with sutures. When appropriate, the removed tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory for examination.
Why Might an Excision Be Recommended?
An excision may be used to remove a variety of skin lesions, including:
- Certain skin cancers
- Atypical or concerning moles
- Cysts
- Lipomas and other benign growths
- Lesions that have returned after previous treatment
- Growths that cause persistent discomfort or irritation
Not every skin growth requires surgical removal. Dr. Benstock will examine the area and recommend an approach based on the type of lesion, its location and size, your medical history, and whether additional laboratory evaluation is needed.
What Happens During an Excision?
Before the procedure, Dr. Benstock will review the treatment plan and answer any questions you may have. The area is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic to help keep you comfortable.
The lesion is then carefully removed. Depending on what is being treated, a small margin of surrounding tissue may also be taken. The incision is typically closed with sutures and covered with a bandage.
Most excisions are outpatient procedures, so you can return home the same day with detailed instructions for caring for the area.
What Should I Expect After an Excision?
Some tenderness, swelling, or bruising around the treatment area is normal during the early stages of healing. You will receive instructions explaining how to clean and protect the site, care for your sutures, and recognize signs that should be brought to our attention.
Depending on the location and size of the excision, you may be advised to temporarily limit strenuous exercise or activities that could place tension on the incision.
If tissue is sent for pathology, our team will review the results and discuss whether any additional care is necessary.
Will an Excision Leave a Scar?
Any procedure that involves an incision in the skin can leave a scar. The final appearance depends on several factors, including the size and location of the lesion, the type of procedure performed, and your body’s natural healing process.
Dr. Benstock uses careful surgical techniques and provides aftercare guidance designed to support proper healing and minimize visible scarring whenever possible. Scars often continue to soften and fade over time.
Excision vs. Shave Removal
The appropriate removal method depends on the type and depth of the lesion.
A shave removal removes a raised or surface-level growth using a sterile blade and typically does not require stitches. An excision removes the lesion more deeply and usually requires sutures to close the skin.
Dr. Benstock will determine which technique is most appropriate after evaluating your skin and the reason for removal.
Why Choose Benstock Dermatology for Skin Excisions?
Benstock Dermatology has provided medical and surgical dermatologic care to Delaware County families for nearly 25 years. Led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Benstock, the practice combines extensive clinical experience with a careful, approachable style of care.
From evaluating a concerning growth to explaining your procedure and helping you through recovery, our goal is to make the process clear and comfortable. Every treatment recommendation is based on your individual skin health and medical needs.
Schedule an Evaluation
If you have a mole, cyst, skin growth, or previously diagnosed lesion that may need to be removed, the first step is a dermatologic evaluation. Dr. Benstock can examine the area and determine whether an excision or another treatment approach is appropriate.
Call (610) 325-5553 to schedule an appointment with Benstock Dermatology in Newtown Square or Media, PA.