Standard Excision

What to Expect from a Standard Excision in Dermatology


A standard excision is a common dermatological procedure that involves the surgical removal of a skin lesion or abnormality, whether for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. This procedure is often recommended for a variety of reasons, including the treatment of skin cancers, the removal of bothersome moles, or addressing cosmetic concerns.

Opting for a standard excision provides patients with a thorough approach to their skin care needs, ensuring that the lesion is completely removed and reducing the risk of recurrence. It’s a versatile and efficient solution that addresses your specific concerns with clear treatment goals in mind, helping you achieve better skin health and enhanced well-being.

If you're considering a standard excision, you can trust that this procedure offers a reliable path to improved skin health and peace of mind.

Standard Excision Explained

A standard excisional procedure in dermatology involves the surgical removal of a skin lesion or abnormality for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. This procedure is commonly performed by dermatologists to address various skin conditions, including suspicious moles, skin cancers, cysts, or other growths.

Before the excision, patients typically undergo a consultation with the dermatologist, during which the need for the procedure is discussed, and any potential risks or benefits are explained. The dermatologist may recommend excision if a skin lesion raises concerns about malignancy, or if it causes discomfort or cosmetic issues.
 

Benefits of Standard Excision

The benefits of standard excision include diagnostic accuracy, effective treatment of skin cancers, and the removal of lesions for cosmetic improvement. 

How Dermatology Affiliates Can Help: Standard Excision in Atlanta, GA

By partnering with Dermatology Affiliates, we can ensure that you receive comprehensive skin care when pursuing a standard excision procedure. Our experience with this procedure will address your dermatological concerns and minimizing the risk of recurrence

Standard Excision FAQs

Standard excision is highly effective for treating many types of skin cancer, particularly when the cancer is detected early. By removing the lesion with a margin of healthy tissue, the procedure helps ensure that all cancerous cells are eliminated, reducing the risk of recurrence. Regular follow-up with your dermatologist is important to monitor for any new or recurring lesions.

No, your dermatologist uses local anesthesia to ensure the procedure is pain-free. Patients may feel some pressure but should not experience pain.

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and location of the lesion. This includes the time needed to numb the area, remove the lesion, close the wound, and provide aftercare instructions. However, individual results may vary.

In some cases, the removed tissue is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Scarring is common after a standard excision, as the procedure involves cutting the skin. The size and appearance of the scar depend on the size of the lesion removed, the location, and your body’s healing process. Your dermatologist will give you tips on minimizing scarring, such as keeping the wound clean and avoiding sun exposure.

Your dermatologist will discuss possible alternatives during the consultation, taking into account the nature of your skin condition and individual factors.

What to Expect at Your Standard Excision Appointment

On the day of the excision, the dermatologist uses local anesthesia to numb the area for patient comfort. The procedure involves removing the targeted skin lesion along with a margin of normal tissue, the size and shape determined by the nature of the lesion and cosmetic considerations. While patients may feel some pressure, the use of local anesthesia ensures a pain-free experience. In certain cases, the removed tissue undergoes laboratory analysis for potential cancerous cells.

Post-excision, the dermatologist closes the wound using sutures or other methods based on size and location, providing patients with post-operative care instructions, including wound cleanliness and activity restrictions during healing.

How to Prepare for Standard Excision

Before the excision, patients typically undergo a consultation with the dermatologist, during which the need for the procedure is discussed, and any potential risks or benefits are explained. The dermatologist may recommend excision if a skin lesion raises concerns about malignancy, or if it causes discomfort or cosmetic issues.

Planning for Standard Excision Recovery

Post-procedure, patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the treated area, but these symptoms are temporary. It's important for patients to follow the dermatologist's post-operative care guidelines and schedule any follow-up appointments as required.

We will work with you to ensure proper recovery and are happy to answer any questions you have.