Surgical removal of benign skin lesions is a procedure where moles, warts, skin tags, or other abnormal skin growths are removed.

Types of Benign Skin Lesions:

• Moles: Small, dark-colored growths that often appear during childhood.

• Dermatofibroma: Firm, raised growths that can be brown, purple, or red and may develop after an insect bite or minor injury.

• Actinic Keratosis: Rough, scaly patches of skin caused by sun exposure.

• Seborrhoeic Keratosis: Grey, black, or brown raised lesions common with age.

• Keratoacanthoma: Rapidly-growing lesions with a solid, scaly core.

• Skin Tags: Small flesh-colored growths in skin creases or areas prone to rubbing.

• Pyogenic Granuloma: Bright red nodules that often develop after an injury.

• Sebaceous Cysts: Round lumps that can become infected.

• Warts: Small, rough lumps caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

When to Consider Removal:

• If a lesion is causing significant problems (e.g., catching on clothing).

• If there’s concern about potential cancerous changes.

• For cosmetic reasons (if you’re unhappy with how it looks).

Removal Techniques:

• Partial Removal (Shave Biopsy): The protruding part of the lesion is “shaved” off to match the surrounding skin level. Used for keratosis, skin tags, and flatter moles.

• Complete Removal: The entire lesion is surgically excised.

• Cryotherapy (Freezing): Involves freezing off the lesion using liquid nitrogen.