Excisional Surgery

The process of cutting away unwanted lesions

Excision is a traditional dermatological method for removing skin cancers and other unwanted spots. The name refers to the cutting away of unwanted lesions. Often, sutures (stitches) are required to assist the healing process. Some operations, such as some skin cancer treatments, may require a second procedure, usually performed at six weeks following the initial surgery.

The healing process

Scarring results from the wound incurred during the procedure. It will look red until healing has completed, at which point, it will assume its final pale appearance. This process may take 1-2 years

Bruising and/or Swelling can occur in some instances. Usually this is minor, but where the skin is loose (e.g. eyelids or cheeks), this may be more noticeable.

Weakness of the area. Once the sutures are removed, the wound is not as strong as prior to the excision, but it gains strength over the 3 months following the procedure.

Pain. Post-operative pain is usually only minor. Pain-killers may be taken to minimise this.