Name of the Procedure:

Shaving of Epidermal or Dermal Lesion
Common name(s): Skin lesion removal, lesion shaving

Summary

Shaving of a skin lesion involves removing a small bump or growth on the skin's surface using a surgical blade. The procedure is typically quick and is performed on the trunk, arms, or legs for lesions that are 0.6 to 1.0 cm in diameter.

Purpose

This procedure is used to remove benign or suspicious skin lesions, such as moles, warts, or keratoses. The goal is to improve cosmetic appearance, relieve discomfort, or obtain a sample for biopsy to rule out malignancy.

Indications

• Presence of a benign-appearing skin lesion that is cosmetically unappealing.
• Lesions causing irritation, bleeding, or discomfort.
• Suspicious lesions needing biopsy to rule out cancer.
• Lesions that have changed in size, color, or shape.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to discontinue certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure.
• The area to be treated should be clean, and the patient should avoid applying lotions or creams on the day of the procedure.
• No specific fasting is usually required.

Procedure Description

1. The area around the lesion is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia is injected to numb the site.
3. A surgical blade or razor is used to shave off the lesion at the skin surface.
4. Hemostasis is achieved using a cautery tool or topical agents if needed.
5. A dressing or bandage is applied to the site.

Tools: Surgical blades, local anesthetic, cautery devices, bandages.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a doctor's office, outpatient clinic, or dermatology center.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or trained healthcare provider
• Medical assistant or nurse

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding at the site
• Infection
• Scarring
• Possible recurrence of the lesion
• Temporary pain or discomfort

Benefits

• Removal of unwanted or symptomatic skin lesions.
• Improved cosmetic appearance.
• Peace of mind if the lesion is benign, or timely treatment if it is not.

Recovery

• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Follow any dressing change instructions provided by your doctor.
• Avoid strenuous activities that might affect the treated area for a few days.
• Full recovery usually occurs within one to two weeks.
• Follow-up appointment may be needed to check healing and biopsy results if taken.

Alternatives

• Cryotherapy (freezing the lesion)
• Laser removal
• Excisional biopsy (cutting out the lesion)
• Electrosurgery Pros and cons vary; for example, cryotherapy might be quicker but less precise, while excisional biopsy requires stitches.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient should feel minimal pain due to the local anesthesia. Some pressure or movement may be felt. Afterward, mild discomfort, redness, or swelling at the site is possible. Over-the-counter pain relief and following aftercare instructions will aid comfort during recovery.