The Benefits
1. Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance:
Removing unsightly or prominent skin lesions can improve the overall appearance of the skin, promoting a smoother and more even complexion. This can boost self-confidence and self-esteem.
2. Relief from Discomfort:
Skin lesions such as skin tags, cysts, or moles can sometimes cause discomfort or irritation, especially if they rub against clothing or jewellery. Removing these lesions can alleviate discomfort and improve overall comfort.
3.Prevention of Infection:
Skin lesions, particularly those that are prone to breaking open or becoming infected, can harbour bacteria or fungi, increasing the risk of infection. Removing these lesions reduces the risk of infection and promotes optimal skin health.
4. Prevention of Spread:
Certain skin lesions, like warts or cysts, can be contagious and spread to other areas of the body or to other individuals. Removing these lesions helps prevent their spread and transmission.
5. Early Detection of Skin Cancer:
Removing suspicious moles or cysts allows for examination by a dermatologist or pathologist, facilitating early detection of potential signs of skin cancer. This improves prognosis and treatment outcomes.
6. Psychological Relief:
The presence of visible or bothersome skin lesions can cause psychological distress or self-consciousness. Removing these lesions can provide emotional relief and improve overall well-being, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and confident in their skin.
How it works
What is a skin lesion
A skin lesion is an area of the skin that is different from the surrounding skin. This can be a lump, sore, or an area of skin that is not normal. It may also be skin cancer. Skin lesion removal is a procedure to remove the lesion. Often, it is not necessary to remove the lesion, and people can live with them without causing any harm. Often, however, people are self-conscious about their appearance and decide to have the lesion removed for cosmetic reasons.
What types of skin lesion can be removed at ACM?
At Advanced Cosmetic Medicine we remove a whole host of different types of lesions including;
- Mole Removal
- Sebaceous Cyst Removal
- Spider Vein Removal
- Lipoma Removal
- Milia Removal
- Skin Tag Removal
- Birth Mark Removal
- Wart Removal
- Spider Vein Removal
- Xanthelasma Removal
- Cherry Angioma Removal
- Venous Lakes Removal
- Nasal Telangiectasia Removal
- Spider Nevus Removal
- Age Spot Removal
What techniques can be used to remove skin lesions?
Multiple techniques can be used when removing skin lesions, depending on the type and extent of the lesion, and will be decided during a consultation with Dr Targett.
Shave Excision
This is designed for skin lesions raised above the skin or located in the upper layer of the skin. After the surrounding area is numbed, a small blade is used to remove the outer layers of the skin, including all or part of the lesion. Stitches are not needed, and medicine or cauterisation is used to stop the bleeding.
Skin Excision
A skin excision involves removing deeper tissue lesions to the fatty layer underneath the skin. This technique is generally performed for lesions that may be potentially cancerous, as normal tissue surrounding the lesion is also removed to ensure all potential cancer cells are removed. The excision is usually an ellipse shape, making it easier to close with stitches. In the case of larger removal areas, skin grafts or a flap of normal skin may be used to replace the excised skin.
Curettage and Electrodesiccation
This technique involves scooping or scraping the skin lesion combined with a high-frequency electrical current, known as electrodesiccation, that can be used before or after the curettage. This is suitable for superficial lesions that do not need a complete excision.
Laser Excision
This technique utilises a laser of concentrated light focused on a minuscule area to heat the treated cells until they are destroyed. This is best suited for high concentrations of melanin lesions such as moles, sunspots, age spots, and other skin concerns.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is designed to freeze off and eliminate skin lesions and is a common treatment technique for warts. It involves administering liquid nitrogen via a dipped cotton swab, spray canister, or a probe containing the substance.
Can scars be removed?
It is not possible to remove scars completely. However, their appearance can be softened using a vascular laser to take away the redness, and sunken scars can be raised level with the surrounding skin using dermal fillers.
How much does skin lesion removal cost?
The cost of skin lesion removal varies depending on the type of skin lesion and the method of removing it. The price will also vary depending on the amount of time it takes to remove the skin lesions and how many there are. You will be informed at the consultation regarding the cost of the procedure.
Why choose Advanced Cosmetic Medicine for your skin lesion removal?
Dr Targett is a GP and has special training in Primary Care Dermatology, Skin Cancer Medicine and Aesthetic Medicine. She will know if a lesion looks suspicious and can take a biopsy to be checked by pathology if necessary. Dr Targett is a skilled Aesthetic medicine doctor and will achieve the most natural-looking results and minimise any scarring. By being treated by a qualified doctor registered under AHPRA and Australian College of General Practitioners you can be assured that you will receive the best care possible.
Pricing
Dr Rahma is not just a doctor with a formidable list of qualifications; she is also compassionate, personable and friendly.
Treatment Areas
The Doctor
Dr Rahma Targett
Dr Rahma Targett is a General Practitioner(FRACGP), with a specialty in Cosmetic Medicine. She founded Advanced Cosmetic Medicine in 2016 and has since become well known as a trusted and in demand Cosmetic Physician in Adelaide. She has a Diploma in Dermoscopy and a Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine with the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. Dr Targett is a leader in her field and regularly attends Cosmetic conferences to keep up to date with modern aesthetic techniques. At advanced Cosmetic Medicine you can always be reassured that you will be welcomed and treated personally by Dr Rahma Targett.
All cosmetic treatments have associated risks and complications that can potentially occur, and patients should be aware of them before undergoing any treatment. Dr Targett will run through the associated risks with skin lesion removal, which can include:
- Infection of the wound site
- Scarring, including keloid scarring
- Bleeding
- Poor wound healing
- Skin discolouration
- Nerve damage
- Recurrence of the lesion
- Blisters or ulcers that can lead to pain and infection
- Allergic reaction anaesthetic or equipment
Ensuring you discuss your medical history with Dr Targett will help minimise potential risks, as Dr Targett can tailor the treatment plan to your health and concerns. Following your aftercare plan will also optimise your healing and contribute to your desired outcome.
The treated area may be tender, with swelling and discolouration for the first 48 hours post-treatment. If stitches are needed, waterproof dressings will be applied so that you may still get the area without having to worry about infection. If patients experience discomfort or pain, over-the-counter pain medication can be used, along with cold compresses, to minimise any swelling. Patients will need to avoid swimming while the sutures are still in place for up to two weeks. Depending on the wound size, vigorous activity should be avoided for three to four weeks, as tension across the surgical site must be avoided to prevent wound breakdown. Stitches may be removed at least one week after treatment, but this depends on the location of the skin lesion removal.
Most patients find the most uncomfortable part of the removal itself is the anaesthetic injection if required. Otherwise, most individuals experience minimal discomfort, mainly during the recovery period.
Results will vary based on the skin lesion’s extent, size, location and your body’s healing ability. It is important to note that scarring can occur from skin lesion removal, and it can take 6-12 months for the final scar to be seen, but if you do not have a history of scarring, it may fade over time. Products and good aftercare can help minimise scarring, which is always encouraged.