Name of the Procedure:

Shaving of Epidermal or Dermal Lesion, Single Lesion, Face, Ears, Eyelids, Nose, Lips, Mucous Membrane; Lesion Diameter Over 2.0 cm

Summary

This procedure involves the careful shaving or removal of a single skin lesion that is larger than 2.0 cm in diameter, located on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membrane.

Purpose

The procedure addresses the removal of benign, pre-malignant, or malignant skin lesions for diagnostic purposes, cosmetic improvement, or to alleviate symptoms such as itching or bleeding. The goal is to eliminate an unsightly or bothersome lesion with minimal scarring and to determine its nature if pathology is indicated.

Indications

• Presence of a skin lesion larger than 2.0 cm that is unsightly, symptomatic, or suspicious for malignancy.
• Lesions causing discomfort or irritation.
• Cosmetic concerns.
• Recommendation by a dermatologist or surgeon based on assessment.

Preparation

• Avoid certain medications like blood thinners, as advised by your doctor.
• Clean the area thoroughly as directed.
• Fasting is generally not required.
• Diagnostic tests such as a skin biopsy might be conducted beforehand to assess the lesion.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. Using a sterile blade, the surgeon carefully shaves off the lesion.
4. The area is then cleansed, and bleeding is controlled.
5. The wound may be covered with a sterile dressing.
6. The removed tissue is often sent for pathological examination if necessary.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of the lesion.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, dermatologist's office, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or surgeon.
• Nursing staff.
• Pathologist (if tissue analysis is required).

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding.
• Infection.
• Scarring.
• Pain or discomfort at the site.
• Rarely, allergic reaction to anesthetic.

Benefits

• Removal of the lesion with minimal scarring.
• Relief from associated symptoms.
• Improved cosmetic appearance.
• Analysis of the lesion to rule out malignancy.

Recovery

• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Follow wound care instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
• Over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
• Full healing within 1-2 weeks.
• Follow-up visit may be needed to check the healing or to discuss pathology results.

Alternatives

• Cryotherapy (freezing the lesion).
• Laser removal.
• Excisional biopsy.
• Observation, if the lesion is benign and asymptomatic.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Cryotherapy: Non-invasive but may not be suitable for larger lesions.
• Laser removal: Minimally invasive but costlier and not always available.
• Excisional biopsy: More thorough but involves more extensive cutting and stitching.
• Observation: No immediate procedure needed but carries a risk of progression if the lesion is malignant.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or a stinging sensation during the anesthesia injection.
• Minimal pain during the procedure due to local anesthesia.
• Some tenderness and a small scar post-procedure.
• Over-the-counter pain medication typically sufficient for any post-procedural discomfort.