A skin lesion is a part of the skin which looks different from its surrounding area and may be raised.  Lesions can include cysts, moles, skin tags, seborrhoeic keratosis and dermatofibromas.  Before removal, it is important to determine whether the skin lesion is likely to be harmful and whether its removal is beneficial. Your consultant will advise if a skin biopsy is recommended.

How is the Skin Lesion Removed?

The problem area will be examined by your consultant and they will decide whether removal is advisable.  This procedure can usually be carried out under local anaesthetic, which means you will be awake but without feeling pain.  An injection will numb the area first and then the lesion will be removed.  Once the procedure has been completed, it is stitched to close the wound.

How Long Will it Take to Recover?

This is a day case procedure.  Once completed and you feel ready, you are allowed to leave the hospital.  The anaesthetic wear off after a while and there may be a bit of soreness for a few days.  Your physical activities may need to be limited initially for the skin to heal.

Need Help?

Skin lesion removal is available at One Ashford Hospital in Kent and One Hatfield Hospital in Hertfordshire.