Skin
Removal of Skin Changes
Various skin changes, such as moles, warts, keratoses, blemishes, xanthelasmas, scars, lipomas, fibromas, and atheromas, can represent not only an aesthetic issue but often a medical problem as well. If you have any of these changes, a consultation with a surgeon is necessary to determine the nature of the change and to decide on the appropriate method of removal.
Once the diagnosis is made, the surgeon will determine whether the change will be removed surgically, with electrocautery, or using radio waves, based on the nature and size of the change.
Moles
Moles are small changes on the skin that can be flat or slightly raised. They consist of cells containing pigment (melanin), so they are usually brownish in color. They are typically round in shape, but variations exist. They can appear in different sizes and shapes, and the number varies from person to person. Their size ranges from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Some individuals have only a few moles, while others may have over a hundred.
In cases of aesthetic concerns or changes in a mole, a consultation with a surgeon is recommended. Whether a mole bothers you for cosmetic reasons or you notice changes in it, you can consult a surgeon who will determine the best method for removal. If melanoma is suspected, a histopathological analysis is mandatory to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
Warts
Warts are skin changes in the form of small raised bumps or growths caused by various viruses. Currently, more than 170 types of viruses are known to cause different types of warts. They can appear on any part of the body, literally from head to toe. When located on the face, fingers, soles of the feet, around the neck, under the armpits, and under the breasts, they can cause various issues.
Some warts are completely harmless, while others may lead to cancer. Therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor who will determine their nature and decide on the best method for removal.
Keratoses
Keratoses are harmless, yellowish-brown or black skin changes, oval or round in shape, and rough to the touch. They most commonly appear after the age of 50. Their size can range from a few millimeters to 2-3 centimeters. They often appear in groups, scattered on areas of the body that sweat more, such as the face, neck, chest, back, and abdomen.
They are divided into seborrheic and pilar (benign) types, and actinic (20% of these keratoses can develop into cancer). Therefore, it is crucial to consult a doctor who will determine their nature and decide on the best method for removal.
Blemishes
Hyperpigmentation, or excessive melanin production due to UV radiation, is the cause of dark spots on the face, neck, décolleté, hands, and other parts of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun. The most common are “age spots” which appear after the age of 40.
This group of changes also includes melasma, which can occur in pregnant women and those using oral contraceptives.
There is also post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which appears as a result of skin injury or a skin condition that leaves blemishes, such as acne.
The best method for removing blemishes will be determined by the doctor after an examination of the changes.
Xanthelasmas
Xanthelasmas are harmless, yellowish, flat or slightly raised plaques found at the inner corners of the eyes and on the lower eyelids. They are made of fatty tissue and giant foam cells. They are more common in women and pose an aesthetic issue that cannot be covered with makeup.
After an examination, the surgeon will determine the best method for removal. They can be successfully removed using radio waves.
Scar Correction
There are scars that result from complications in wound healing after surgeries, which can be completely removed or whose visibility can be minimized. These are the most common scars in the abdominal area, which are wide, hypertrophic, or keloidal, meaning they formed as a result of excessive connective tissue production during the healing process.
Whether and how a scar can be removed or reduced depends on how it was formed and its age, so a consultation with a surgeon is necessary to determine the treatment method.
Lipomas
Lipomas are benign growths, usually round or semi-spherical, made up of fatty tissue. These growths are soft and movable. They can appear on any part of the body. They grow slowly and usually do not cause problems, other than aesthetic concerns. Larger ones can press on a nerve, causing pain and tingling in the affected area.
After an examination, the surgeon will determine the method for removing the lipoma.
Atheromas
Atheromas are sebaceous cysts caused by the blockage of a sebaceous gland duct. Unlike lipomas, they are typically smaller and firmer to the touch. They most commonly appear on the head, neck, back, chest, and in areas with skin folds.
Complications can arise when bacteria enter the cyst, leading to infection, inflammation, the formation of pus, and tissue necrosis. Such changes may also rupture and release a very unpleasant-smelling content, making regular dressing changes and antibiotic therapy necessary.
It is best to remove the atheroma before redness and other signs of infection occur. The method of removal is determined by the surgeon after an examination, taking into account the size and location of the cyst.
Fibromas
Soft fibromas are benign, soft growths made of connective tissue that hang from a stalk on the skin. They are usually a few millimeters in diameter, although some can grow up to several centimeters. They are the same color as the surrounding skin and most commonly appear on the neck, underarms, and in the groin area.
Fibromas are removed for both aesthetic and practical reasons. If they are located in areas prone to frequent irritation, they can get injured and bleed, requiring removal.
After an examination, the surgeon will determine the optimal method for removing soft fibromas. The most common method is the use of radio waves.
Procedure for Removing Skin Changes
Consultation with the surgeon, including a review of your medical history and any current therapies (inform the doctor about any medications, dietary supplements, or herbal treatments you are currently using, as well as any allergies).
The specialist will examine the growth and may perform additional tests or imaging if necessary.
Based on the examination, the doctor will suggest the best method for removal.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and, if necessary, analgosedation (depending on the size of the skin change), ensuring no discomfort or pain.
Recovery After Removal of Skin Changes
After the removal of skin changes, follow these steps for better recovery:
- Regular check-ups and dressing changes.
- Removal of stitches after 7-10 days.
- Clean the wound regularly with mild soap and water.
- Use sterile bandages for protection and change them as recommended.
- Take prescribed medications exactly as instructed by your doctor.
- Avoid heavy physical activity and Be alert for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pain.
- Protect the scar from direct sunlight. If the procedure is performed in the summer, be sure to cover the scar.
- Do not miss scheduled follow-up appointments to adequately monitor your recovery.
Consistently following these guidelines will help you recover quickly and effectively.
FAQ
Is the removal of skin lesions painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, minimizing discomfort.
How long does recovery take after the treatment?
Recovery varies depending on the type of treatment, but most patients quickly return to their usual activities.
How can I know if the skin lesion is benign?
Any skin change should be examined by our expert team to determine its nature and whether further treatment or a histopathological analysis is needed.
Is the removal of skin changes safe for all patients?
Removal of skin changes is safe when performed by a qualified medical team. Before the procedure, the patient’s health condition is assessed to ensure a safe and effective treatment.
What are the most common reasons for removing skin changes?
Skin changes are removed for aesthetic reasons, due to suspicion of malignancy, discomfort or irritation, as well as their location which may cause injuries.
How long does the procedure for removing skin changes take?
Most procedures take between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the size and type of the skin change.
Will there be a scar after removing skin changes such as moles?
Most procedures leave minimal or nearly invisible scars. In cases where larger removal is necessary, the doctor may recommend treatments to minimize scarring.
When is a histopathological analysis necessary?
Analysis is performed when there is suspicion of malignancy in the skin change to confirm or rule out an accurate diagnosis.
Can I return to my daily activities immediately?
You should follow your doctor’s advice after the procedure. For minor changes, recovery is quick, but it is recommended to avoid strenuous physical activities or irritation of the treated area during the first few days.
How can I recognize risky skin changes?
Pay attention to changes that grow, alter in color, shape, or size, as well as those that cause pain, bleeding, or itching. These changes should be examined by a specialist as soon as possible.
Can changes disappear on their own?
Some changes, such as certain types of warts, may disappear on their own, while others require intervention.
How much does it cost to remove skin changes?
The price depends on the type of change, its size, and the method of removal. A consultation with the doctor will provide accurate information.
Is it possible to remove multiple changes in one procedure?
Yes, in most cases, it is possible to remove multiple changes during the same session, but this depends on their number and type, so a doctor’s examination is necessary.