For detailed information on a specific type of lesion, see Mole, Cyst & Lipoma Removal or Skin Cancer Excision & Reconstruction.
Common Lesions Treated
Pigmented naevi (moles): Removal for cosmetic reasons or diagnostic concern. All moles should be assessed using dermoscopy before excision is planned.
Sebaceous/epidermoid cysts: Excision of the complete cyst wall is required to prevent recurrence.
Lipomas: Benign fatty tumours; excision where symptomatic or cosmetically concerning.
Dermatofibromas, fibromas, skin tags: Benign lesions managed by simple excision.
Actinic keratosis: Common, sun-related pre-cancerous patches; usually managed non-surgically.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): Most common skin cancer. Excision with adequate margins; reconstruction planned to achieve optimal functional and cosmetic result.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Surgical excision is the standard treatment; wider margins than BCC.
Bowen's disease: Early, non-invasive squamous cell carcinoma confined to the epidermis.
Melanoma: Wide local excision with margins determined by Breslow thickness; sentinel lymph node biopsy may be indicated. Multidisciplinary team working.
Merkel cell carcinoma, DFSP and soft tissue sarcoma: Rarer, specialist skin cancers, each managed via dedicated multidisciplinary pathways.
All excised tissue is routinely sent for histological analysis — standard practice, charged separately by the laboratory. Results within 7–14 days, communicated to you and your GP.
The Procedure
Most skin lesion removals are performed under local anaesthetic as a day-case procedure. Mr Naparus is known for his calm, comfortable approach to local anaesthetic procedures. The appropriate margin of normal tissue is excised and wound closed in layers with fine sutures. A written record of the specimen sent to histology is provided.
Risks & Complications
Incomplete Excision
Histology guides re-excision if margins are involved. More common for BCC at anatomically challenging sites.
Scarring
All wounds leave a scar. Meticulous closure minimises appearance. Scar maturation takes 12–18 months.
Infection
<2%. Prophylactic antibiotics in selected cases.
Recurrence
Benign cysts: small risk if cyst wall incompletely removed. Skin cancers: depends on tumour characteristics and margins.
Aftercare & Recovery
- Shower after 48 hours; keep wound covered until healed
- Face sutures removed at 5–7 days; body at 10–14 days
- Histology results communicated within 7–14 days
- Return to work: usually 1–3 days
- Exercise: dependent on site; typically 1–2 weeks
- Sun protection of scar: 6–12 months; SPF50+
Abstain completely for at least two weeks before and after surgery. Alcohol increases bleeding, impairs anaesthesia and delays wound healing.
Nicotine in any form dramatically increases risk of wound breakdown and poor scarring. Minimum six weeks nicotine-free before and after surgery.
Face sutures removed at 5–7 days; body at 10–14 days. You will be clearly advised which type has been used and what follow-up is needed.
Micropore tape reduces tension; silicone tape/sheets reduce scar redness (commence 2–4 weeks post-healing). Avoid direct sun on scars for 6 months; SPF50+ essential.