Skin Lesion Removal

When you have a cyst, mole, or other growth in a delicate area like your face or neck, it’s imperative to see a surgeon with specialized experience in skin lesion removal. At Michigan Avenue ENT, talented double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and ENT specialist Julian Dixon, MD, offers skillful skin lesion removal using techniques that preserve your facial anatomy and natural beauty. Call the office in The Loop, Chicago, Illinois, or book your appointment using the online feature now.

What is a skin lesion?

A skin lesion is an unusual growth on your skin. Some common types of skin lesions are: 

Moles

Common moles (nevi) are small smooth skin growths measuring less than 5 mm wide. They're usually brown, tan, or pink and have even color throughout. 

However, dysplastic nevi are often larger than common moles and may have varied colors, textures, and shapes. 

Although quite rare, moles can turn into skin cancer (melanoma).

Sebaceous cysts

Sebaceous cysts are small white or yellowish skin bumps. They’re soft and easily manipulated under your skin. This type of cyst stems from the sebaceous glands that produce sebum, an oily substance that helps moisturize your skin. 

But, a sebaceous cyst is an accumulation of excess sebum. While sebaceous cysts aren’t usually harmful, many people dislike their appearance. 

Lipomas

Lipomas are bumps made of fat. They’re easily moved and have a soft, rubbery feel. Lipomas can appear anywhere on the body. 

As with moles and sebaceous cysts, lipomas are generally harmless. In very rare cases, they may be cancerous. Lipomas may grow larger, and their appearance may cause cosmetic distress. In rare cases, they may grow large enough to cause physical discomfort. 

When do I need skin lesion removal?

At Michigan Avenue ENT, Dr. Dixon believes everyone should be happy and confident with the skin they’re in. So, he may recommend skin lesion removal if you dislike the appearance of your skin lesion or if it’s causing discomfort or embarrassment. 

If your skin lesion is potentially cancerous, Dr. Dixon may recommend removal as a preventive measure. He can test the removed lesion to determine whether it contains cancer cells. 

How does skin lesion removal work?

As a fellowship-trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Dixon has a wide range of treatment options to remove your skin lesions. He always takes the most conservative approach and emphasizes excellent cosmetic results. 

Some of the different methods Dr. Dixon may use include:

• Cryotherapy: freezing the growth off
• Laser: heating the growth to break it down 
• Shave excision: removal with a small blade for surface bumps
• Scalpel excision: removing deeper growths and some surrounding skin with a scalpel

Treatment depends on the type of growth, its location, and your desired results. 

You can trust Michigan Avenue ENT for expert skin growth removal with great cosmetic results. Book your appointment online or call the office now.