Standard Excision

A standard excision in dermatology involves the surgical removal of a skin lesion or abnormality for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. This procedure is commonly chosen by patients for various reasons, including addressing skin cancers, removing bothersome moles, or addressing cosmetic concerns.

By choosing this procedure, patients can expect a comprehensive approach to their dermatological concerns, ensuring complete removal and minimizing the risk of recurrence. It offers a versatile and prompt solution with clear treatment goals, providing patients with a path toward improved skin health and well-being.

Examples of Surgical Excision

Excisional-Surgery-5
Destruction-7
Excisional-Surgery-1

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 Pittsburgh Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center Can Help

By partnering with At Pittsburgh Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, 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

Your dermatologist may recommend it to address skin cancers, remove bothersome moles, or address cosmetic concerns for a more comprehensive solution.

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 is usually quick, lasting only as long as it takes to remove the targeted lesion and perform any necessary closure.

In some cases, the removed tissue is sent to a laboratory for analysis to determine if there are any cancerous cells present.

The extent of scarring depends on factors like the size and location of the excision. Your dermatologist will discuss potential scarring during the consultation.

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

From Our QualDerm Family of Providers: The Importance of TBSEs

Early-Detection-TBSE

Contact Pittsburgh Skin Cancer Center

Make an appointment with us for your total body skin exam today.

Schedule Appointment

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.

Featured Products for Healthy Skin

Photo of Avene A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum

Avene A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum

Fast-absorbing, powerful antioxidant serum neutralizes free radicals caused by environmental and lifestyle aggressors while visibly plumping skin to preserve a younger, brighter complexion. 1 fl oz / 30 mL

Shop Now
Photo of Avene Cleansing Foam

Avene Cleansing Foam

Lightweight, cleansing foam gently removes make-up, dirt, excess oil and other impurities while soothing skin for a clean and calm complexion. Skin is left with a healthy, matte finish. 5 fl oz / 150 mL

Shop Now
Shop QualDerm's Online Store