COSMETIC SURGERY

Benign skin lesion surgery

A benign skin lesion may be either a skin tag (or papiloma), a Sebaceous Cyst, or most commonly a Seborrheic keratosis. Although not a major worry, you may choose to remove a skin lesion because you want to:

  • stop the discomfort caused by rubbing on clothing
  • remove an unsightly blemish on your face
  • enhance the aesthetic appearance of your body
  • confirm whether it is safe to keep or not

Skin tag (papiloma)

This refers to a benign epithelial lesion of the skin. Their cause is not known but Cutaneous tags are very common, and often occur during mid-life. They are tiny skin outgrowths, sometimes with small, narrow stalks connecting the protrusion to the skin's surface. Unless irritated by the things you wear, they may cause no discomfort and therefore not need treatment unless they are unsightly or prominent.

Sebaceous cyst

These originate from blocked oil glands in the skin and can occur on most areas of the body. They are benign and do not develop into cancer. Usually round in shape with a visible punctum on the skin, sebaceous cysts can exude a sticky white material when squeezed, and if infected can become red and tender. Primarily, they are a cosmetic problem or a nuisance when positioned on an easily irritated area of the body like the armpit or inside of the leg. Sebaceous cysts are benign and do not develop into cancer.

Seborrheic keratoses

These are the most common skin lesions, appearing most often on sun-exposed skin on the neck, face and torso in older patients. Their exact cause is unknown but they have no potential for malignancy. Seborrheic keratoses usually have a brown/tan colour, with defined edges and a 'stuck-on' appearance. They vary in texture and can be wart-like, crusty or smooth. Occasionally the surface can flake or crumble, especially if they are rubbed or picked, which can lead to bleeding and oozing. They can sometimes be mistaken for a skin cancer or melanoma if they are irregular in form or have been irritated. Seborrheic keratoses can be easily removed with little or no scarring.