Expert Excision of Skin Lesions at Sunshine Family Medical Center in St. Petersburg, FL

Sunshine Family Medical Center in St. Petersburg, FL, provides expert excision of skin lesions as part of our comprehensive family medicine services. Our experienced healthcare providers offer safe and effective removal of skin abnormalities, ensuring that you receive the highest quality care.

Understanding Excision of Skin Lesions

Excision of skin lesions is a common medical procedure used to remove abnormal growths or tumors from the skin. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and involves cutting out the lesion along with a small margin of healthy skin. Excision is often recommended for lesions that are suspected to be cancerous or are causing symptoms such as pain or irritation.

How Does It Work?

During the excision procedure, your healthcare provider will first numb the area with a local anesthetic. They will then carefully cut out the lesion along with a small margin of surrounding healthy skin. The excised tissue is sent to a laboratory for further examination to determine if it is cancerous or benign. The wound is then closed with sutures, and a dressing is applied.

Am I a Good Candidate?

If you have a skin lesion that is causing concern, such as a mole that has changed in size, shape, or color, you may be a good candidate for excision. Your healthcare provider will evaluate the lesion and determine if excision is the appropriate treatment option for you.

What Should I Expect?

After the excision procedure, you may experience some discomfort and swelling at the site of the lesion. Your healthcare provider will provide instructions on how to care for the wound and when to remove the sutures. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize scarring.

FAQs about Excision of Skin Lesions

1. Is excision of skin lesions painful?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. Some discomfort and mild pain may occur after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

2. Will there be scarring after the excision?

Scarring is a common outcome of skin lesion excision, but the extent of scarring depends on various factors such as the size and location of the lesion and how well you care for the wound during the healing process.

3. How long does it take for the wound to heal after excision?

The wound typically takes a few weeks to heal completely. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on wound care and follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

4. Are there any risks associated with skin lesion excision?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks of infection, bleeding, and scarring. Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

5. Can I resume normal activities after the excision?

You may need to avoid strenuous activities and follow your healthcare provider's instructions on wound care and activity restrictions until the wound has healed completely.