Information about the procedure
Surgical removal of moles (naevi), lipomas, epidermoid cysts and other skin and subcutaneous lesions, with histological examination.
On this page
What it involves
Skin and subcutaneous lesions are common, and the vast majority are benign. Even so, every lesion removed is sent for histological examination — this is a fundamental rule.
There are various reasons for removal: a suspicious change in appearance, mechanical irritation from clothing or jewellery, growth, inflammation, pain or cosmetic concern.
Removal is a minor day-case procedure, but the choice of technique and the placement of the incision determine how the scar will look a year later.
Types and approaches
Mole (naevus)
A pigmented lesion. It is removed if it changes in size, shape or colour, if it bleeds or itches, if it is irritated mechanically, or at the patient’s request. It is always sent for histology.
Lipoma
A benign lesion made up of fatty tissue, lying beneath the skin. Soft and mobile. It is removed if it grows, causes discomfort or for cosmetic reasons.
Epidermoid cyst
A subcutaneous cyst with a capsule and keratin contents. Clinically it is often hard to distinguish from a blocked sebaceous gland — histological examination gives the definitive answer. It is removed together with its cyst wall — if removal is incomplete, it recurs. If the cyst is inflamed, the inflammation is treated first.
Skin tags (fibromas) and warts
Small skin lesions that are irritated by clothing and jewellery. They are removed quickly, with minimal scarring.
Dermoscopy before removal
For pigmented lesions, examination with a dermatoscope helps to decide which ones need removing and with what margins.
Who it is suitable for
Suitable for
- A change in the size, shape or colour of a mole
- Bleeding, itching or inflammation of a lesion
- Mechanical irritation from clothing, underwear or jewellery
- A growing lipoma or cyst
- Cosmetic concern about a lesion in a visible location
- Suspicious findings on dermoscopy
Not suitable, or postponed, in cases of
- An actively inflamed cyst — it is treated first and removed afterwards
- Blood clotting disorders that have not been corrected beforehand
- Suspected malignancy, which requires a different approach and wider margins
- Active skin infection in the area
Preparation
- Examination and, where needed, dermoscopy
- Telling us about any blood thinners you take
- Planning the incision along the natural skin lines
- Discussing the expected scar before the procedure
How it is performed
The procedure is performed as a day case under local anaesthesia. It usually takes 15–40 minutes, depending on the number and size of the lesions.
The lesion is removed completely — together with its capsule or cyst wall in the case of a lipoma or cyst. The wound is closed in layers.
The tissue is always sent for histological examination. The result is usually available within 7–14 days.
Recovery
- The first 48 hoursMild swelling and discomfort. The wound is kept dry and covered.
- The first weekDressing changes daily or every other day, as instructed. Do not get the wound wet.
- 7–14 daysStitches are removed depending on the area — earlier on the face, later on the back and limbs. The histology result becomes available.
- 2–6 weeksThe scar is pink and slightly raised. Scar care with a silicone product begins.
- 6–12 monthsThe scar fades and flattens.
Pain and discomfort
Once the local anaesthetic has been given, the procedure itself is painless. The anaesthetic injection is felt as a sting for a few seconds. After that, discomfort is minimal and standard painkillers are usually sufficient for the first day.
Risks and complications
Every intervention carries risks. Listing them does not mean they are expected to occur — it allows you to make an informed decision.
- A scar — unavoidable with any surgical removal
- A thickened or stretched scar, more common on the chest, shoulders and back
- Recurrence after incomplete removal, particularly of a cyst
- Haematoma or infection — rare
- Altered sensation around the scar
- A histological finding that requires further surgery with wider margins
Results and longevity
Once completely removed, the lesion does not come back.
The scar is permanent, but with a well-placed incision and good care it becomes a thin, pale line.
The histology result is part of the procedure, not an extra service. It is discussed with you in person once it is available.