Excision of Skin Lesion on Any Other Part of the Body (Except the Face)
Cost: $3,262 USD
Hospitalization duration: 2 days
What is Skin Lesion Excision?
Skin lesion excision is a surgical procedure in which an abnormal area of skin on the body is removed, excluding the facial area. This procedure is performed to remove benign, pre-cancerous, or cancerous lesions, such as atypical moles, cysts, lipomas, or suspicious lesions. The surgery allows the entire lesion to be removed along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure that no abnormal cells remain.
During the procedure, an incision is made in the skin around the lesion and, once removed, the wound is closed with sutures. The removed lesion is sent to the pathology laboratory for detailed analysis.
Includes
- Medical Team
The surgery is performed by a team specializing in surgical dermatology or general surgery, depending on the type and location of the lesion, ensuring a safe and complete excision.
- Laboratory
This includes complete pre-surgical studies that assess the patient’s general health, allowing the medical team to adequately prepare for the procedure.
- Office
Chest imaging examination, used to confirm the absence of respiratory or cardiac problems that may affect anesthesia and safety during the procedure.
- Preoperative Evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
Comprehensive evaluation by an internist and an electrocardiogram (EKG) to ensure that the patient is fit to undergo the procedure.
- Postoperative Visits
Postoperative follow-up to monitor the healing of the incision, evaluate the patient’s recovery, and address any possible complications.
- Pathology Study
The removed lesion is sent to the laboratory for histopathological analysis, which allows the diagnosis to be confirmed and to determine if additional treatments are required.
Preparing for surgery
For excision of a skin lesion, the medical team may recommend:
- Fasting for at least 6 hours before surgery, especially if general anesthesia will be used.
- Discontinuation of certain medications, such as anticoagulants, to reduce the risk of bleeding during the procedure.
- Avoiding cosmetic products or creams in the surgical area, to facilitate proper disinfection and preparation of the skin.
Recovery
Recovery from a skin lesion excision is usually quick, although it will depend on the size and location of the lesion. Typical recommendations include:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity for the first few days to allow for proper healing.
- Keep the wound clean and dry, following the directions of your medical team to prevent infection.
- Apply painkillers as needed to control any discomfort or pain in the treated area.
Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, although they should avoid exertion or movements that could open the wound until it is completely healed.
Risks and Complications
Although excision of a skin lesion is a safe procedure, there are some potential risks, such as:
- Infection at the incision site, which may require antibiotic treatment.
- Hematoma formation or fluid buildup under the skin.
- Abnormal scarring or keloids, especially in patients predisposed to raised scars.
The medical team provides precise instructions to minimize these risks and ensure a smooth recovery.