Minor Surgical Removal of Skin Lesions in Dubai
Some lesions need to come off: a mole the dermatologist wants examined, a cyst that keeps getting infected, a lump that is catching on clothes, a growth that is unsightly. Minor skin surgery removes it under local anaesthetic in a short appointment, and anything removed is sent for examination under the microscope. At Smart Care Polyclinic in Deira it follows a consultation with the specialist dermatologist, who quotes the procedure before booking it.
For: moles, cysts, lipomas and other lumps needing removal or diagnosis
Takes: 20-45 minutes under local anaesthetic
Price: quoted at the consultation
What it is
The lesion is assessed first, then removed at a separate visit. The dermatologist decides the method by the lesion and the site: a shave removal for a raised benign mole, an elliptical excision with stitches where the whole depth is needed or a scar line will sit better, a punch biopsy where a sample of a rash or lesion is needed for diagnosis. Cysts are removed with their sac so they do not refill.
Everything removed goes to the laboratory. Histology is what confirms that a mole was benign or tells the dermatologist what a lesion was, and the result is discussed with you when it returns, usually within one to two weeks.
Local anaesthetic numbs the area after the first sting. You are awake, the area is numb, and most people describe pressure rather than pain. Stitches, where used, come out after five to fourteen days depending on the site. A scar is unavoidable with any removal; the aim is a fine line placed along the skin's natural creases, and the dermatologist will show you where it will sit before you agree.
Aftercare
Keep the wound dry for the first day, then clean and covered as instructed. Avoid stretching the area and heavy exercise until stitches are out. Mild soreness is normal; increasing redness, warmth or discharge is not, and should be reported. Sunscreen on the healing scar for several months keeps it from darkening, which matters in Dubai's sun.
What is not removed here
Large lesions, lesions on the eyelids or lips, and anything the dermatologist suspects may be a skin cancer needing wider margins are referred to a surgeon with the assessment and photographs, so you are not assessed twice. Saying so at the consultation is better than starting a procedure the clinic is not set up to finish well.
The consultation, and what follows from it
Dermatology consultation
Assessment, examination and a plan with every cost stated before anything further is done.
AED 125
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Questions patients ask
It depends on the size, site and method, so it is quoted at the consultation after the dermatologist has examined the lesion, and includes sending the specimen for histology. Nothing is booked until you have the figure.
Every removal leaves some mark. A shave removal leaves a flat pale patch; an excision leaves a fine line. Placement along natural skin creases and good aftercare keep it discreet, and the dermatologist shows you where the scar will be before you decide.
Yes, where the dermatologist is satisfied it is benign and the likely scar is acceptable to you. It is still sent for histology.
This guide is general information about a condition, not a diagnosis. Skin conditions overlap, and what looks like one thing is often another; the dermatologist's examination is what decides your treatment.