SKIN SURGERY (including mole removal)
Moles that bleed or that change in size, shape or colour may have become cancerous. Assessment using dermoscopy (light magnification) can help. Surgery to remove skin lesions or moles can often alleviate worry or concern. By sending the skin lesion to the laboratory to be analysed it is possible to confirm the diagnosis and to check whether there is any cancer present. Some skin lesions are unsightly and removing them can improve the appearance of the skin. Of course the surgery will leave behind a scar but you can be assured that this scar will be made as small and neat as possible. In most cases this type of surgery can be performed under local anaesthetic as a day case procedure (a bit like going to the dentist). Sometimes a skin graft or a skin flap is required to optimise the healing and appearance of the skin. All of this will be in discussed and explained to you in more detail at your consultation.
How long will the operation take?
About 30-60 minutes
Will I need a General Anaesthetic?
Generally no. Most skin lesions can be removed with you awake by using local anaesthetic injections. I use a variety of techniques to try to the pain of the injection as much as I possibly can.
How many nights will I need to stay in hospital?
You won't need to stay in hospital. You will be able to go home the same day.
Will it be painful afterwards and how long do I have to have off work?
There is usually some swelling, bruising and some discomfort or pain after this type of surgery. This usually settles gradually after 1-2 weeks. Generally, patients therefore need about 2 weeks off work.Usually the skin will have healed by then. Stitches generally need to be removed at 5-7 days although sometimes it is possible to use dissolving stitches.
What should I avoid after the operation?
Please try to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few days. Simply leave the dressings on until you come back for your review.
What are the risks of the operation?
All operations carry some risks. Bruising, swelling are common with this operation. There will be scar and in some patients this scar can become red raised and lumpy. It is normal for scars to look red for 6 months after surgery. They then normally become purple for 6 months and then gradually fade to the normal skin colour over 1-2 years. Massage and moisturising cream can help to soften scars and I recommend you do this regularly after the wound has healed. Infection, bad scarring, bleeding, permanent numbness around the scar and delayed or slow healing, can also occur with this operation but these risks are generally less common.
When will I have appointments after the operation?
You will normally be seen for an appointment at 1-2 weeks and at about 3 months after surgery to ensure that you are recovering well. The scars continue to settle and improve over time and typically fade to the normal skin colour after about 1-2 years.
