Surgical Excision

Yes. Any procedure that surgically removes a growth from the skin will leave a scar. However, careful surgical technique is used to minimize the size and appearance of the scar whenever possible. Scars typically continue to flatten, soften, and fade over several months as they mature.

The area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure, so you should not feel sharp pain during the excision. You may feel pressure, pulling, or movement. Mild soreness or tenderness can occur once the numbing medication wears off.

Initial healing typically occurs over approximately 1–2 weeks, although recovery varies based on the size and location of the excision and the type of repair performed. Certain areas of the body may require a longer healing period or temporary activity restrictions to protect the incision.

Many surgical excisions are closed with sutures (stitches) to help the skin heal and minimize scarring. The type of sutures and when they are removed will depend on the location and size of the procedure. Some sutures dissolve on their own, while others need to be removed at a follow-up visit.

When medically indicated, removed tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory for examination under a microscope. This can confirm the diagnosis and, when treating a skin cancer, help determine whether the lesion was completely removed. Not every benign or cosmetic removal requires pathology, and your provider will discuss this with you when appropriate.

Surgical excision may be used to remove certain moles, cysts, lipomas, and other benign growths, as well as suspected or confirmed skin cancers. The appropriate removal technique depends on the type, size, depth, and location of the growth.

If a biopsy confirms skin cancer, Dr. Payne will discuss the most appropriate treatment based on the type, size, depth, and location of the cancer. Some skin cancers can be treated with standard surgical excision, while others may require a different procedure or referral for specialized treatment such as Mohs surgery.

If cancerous cells extend to the edge of the removed tissue, additional treatment may be necessary to ensure the remaining cancer is adequately treated. Your pathology results will be reviewed and the appropriate next steps discussed with you.

As with any surgical procedure, potential risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, wound separation, changes in sensation, pigment changes, and recurrence of the growth. Your individual risks and aftercare instructions will be reviewed before and after your procedure.

You will receive specific wound-care instructions based on your procedure. In general, keeping the area clean, protected, and appropriately covered while it heals can help promote proper healing. You may also need to temporarily limit exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that place tension on the surgical site.