11442 Excision, other benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, mucous membrane; excised diameter 1.1 to 2.0 cm

Name of the Procedure:

Excision of a Benign Lesion (1.1 to 2.0 cm) on the Face, Ears, Eyelids, Nose, Lips, or Mucous Membrane

Summary

In this procedure, doctors remove a benign (non-cancerous) lesion from sensitive areas like the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes. The lesion, including some surrounding tissue, is carefully excised to ensure complete removal.

Purpose

• Condition Addressed: Benign skin or mucous membrane lesions.
• Goals: The primary goal is to eliminate the lesion, preventing potential complications, and improving the cosmetic appearance of the affected area.

Indications

• Symptoms: Persistent or growing benign lesions that might cause discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or functional issues.
• Patient Criteria: Patients with benign lesions larger than 1.1 cm but less than 2.0 cm in diameter.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Follow the specific fasting or medication guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
• Diagnostic Tests: A biopsy or imaging might be needed to confirm the benign nature of the lesion.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made around the lesion, including a margin of healthy tissue.
3. Excision: The lesion and margin are surgically removed.
4. Closure: The wound is closed with sutures, and a dressing is applied to protect the site.

Tools and equipment typically include scalpels, forceps, and sutures.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific case.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, dermatological office, or minor surgical suite.

Personnel

• Surgeon (usually a dermatologist or plastic surgeon)
• Nursing staff
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Minor bleeding, infection, and scarring.
• Rare Risks: Nerve damage, significant scarring, or allergic reactions to anesthesia.

Benefits

• Expected benefits include complete removal of the benign lesion and improved cosmetic appearance. Patients typically notice benefits within a few days to weeks after the procedure.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Keep the wound clean and dry, follow specific wound care instructions, and take prescribed medications as directed.
• Recovery Time: Generally, it takes about 1-2 weeks for initial healing, with full recovery in about a month. Follow-up appointments may be required to monitor healing and remove sutures.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Watchful waiting, cryotherapy (freezing the lesion), or laser treatment.
• Pros and Cons: These alternatives may have varying effectiveness and cosmetic outcomes compared to surgical excision.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients typically feel minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia.
• After the Procedure: Some soreness, swelling, and minor pain at the excision site are normal. Pain can be managed with prescribed medications or over-the-counter pain relievers.