Mole, cyst, wart and skin tag removal: treatment summary

Mole, cyst, wart or skin tag removal treatment

What’s the operation for?

This is an operation to remove a skin lesion such as a mole, cyst, wart or skin tag. This may be because it has shown changes in shape or colour, or is unsightly, painful or restricting your movement. Mole removal, cyst removal and wart removal are usually quick and straightforward procedures and are most often performed as out-patient or day-case procedures, with no overnight stay.

The mole removal, cyst removal and wart removal operations are usually carried out under a local anaesthetic, which means that the affected skin area will be completely numb but you stay awake. Sedative drugs can be given with a local anaesthetic to help you feel relaxed during the procedure.

In some cases, a local anaesthetic and/or sedation is not needed. This will depend on the type of treatment you are having and the size, location and number of lesions that need removing.

Your surgeon will advise if anaesthesia and/or sedation is suitable for you. Your surgeon will also explain the benefits and risks of having your skin lesion removed, and will discuss the alternatives to the procedure.

About the operation

The exact technique used for removing the lesion depends on factors such as what condition it is, its size and location. Most lesions are cut out using a scalpel and the wound closed with stitches. Some lesions may be “shaved” down to the level of the surrounding skin. Skin tags may be simply snipped off with surgical scissors. Minor skin lesions, such as warts, may be frozen off with liquid nitrogen gas (extreme cold) or treated with chemicals that are painted on such as salicylic acid. Alternatively, a laser (a high-energy beam of light) may be used to destroy it.

Your surgeon will explain the risks associated with each method and advise you on which treatment option is most suitable for you. Samples of the removed lesion may be sent to a laboratory for examination.

The operation will usually leave a scar. How big and noticeable this will be depends on the exact operation. Please ask your surgeon how much scarring to expect after your treatment. Most scars fade significantly over the first year.

Having a minor skin lesion removed is generally a safe procedure. However, all operations carry risks as well as benefits.

Complications of minor skin surgery are uncommon, but the chance of problems does depend on the nature of the lesion, the exact type of operation required and other factors such as your general health. You should ask your surgeon to explain how any risks apply to you.

To find out more about having a mole, cyst, wart or skin tag removal in a Spire Healthcare hospital, please call our treatment enquiry team on 0800 434 6600.