Excisions are small surgeries to remove lesions from the body. They are done to remove a problematic lesion – like skin cancer – or to get a skin biopsy for laboratory diagnosis.
What is it?
In the field of dermatology, excisions are utilized to eliminate lesions from your skin by entirely cutting them away. Excisions are frequently used to remove an undesired or dangerous lesion. Dangerous lesions include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma. Additionally, an excision can be used to remove a benign (non-cancerous) lesion either for cosmetic purposes or to alleviate irritation.
When an excision is used to obtain a sample for laboratory diagnosis, it's often referred to as a biopsy. A skin biopsy is a procedure that involves removing a tissue sample from your body for microscopic examination by a pathologist. Biopsy is regularly used to determine the nature of skin abnormalities such as moles, lesions, rashes, or growths that could be indications of skin disorders, allergies, infections, or cancer. It can also act as a method to monitor the progress of treatment in certain conditions. Our board-certified team at Buckeye Dermatology promptly contacts patients once the lab diagnosis is complete, reducing the time you need to wait for results.
Growth types that may require a biopsy for diagnosis include:
What to expect
Excisions of all types are performed in our offices. Patients are provided with local anesthesia in the targeted area to reduce discomfort and can return home immediately following the procedure. We acknowledge the apprehension that any excision may cause, which is why we strive to create a calm and supportive atmosphere at our clinics. Your tissue sample is delivered to our onsite pathology lab for microscopic examination. The lab at our medical practice is fully accredited by the College of American Pathologists, indicating that it adheres to the highest standards of quality and accuracy.
Post-procedure home care after an excision is usually uncomplicated. The professionals at Buckeye Dermatology will provide you with clear instructions on care following your treatment. This generally involves changing your dressing, sanitizing the impacted area, and applying a topical solution to accelerate recovery and reduce the risk of infection. At our clinics in Springfield, Grove City, and Dublin, Ohio, our team ensures that you receive the best care possible.