Summer is when most of us notice our skin. Sleeves come up, sun exposure increases, and the mole on your shoulder or the lump on your back that you had stopped thinking about is suddenly visible again. It is also the season when we see the most enquiries about skin lesions at Healthium Clinics.
The good news is that the vast majority of lumps, bumps and marks are harmless. The important thing is to know which ones deserve a professional look, and to understand that removal, where wanted or needed, is a quick and straightforward procedure.
Moles: what to watch for
Most adults have between ten and forty moles, and most are entirely benign. The concern is with moles that change. A useful way to remember what to look for is the ABCDE checklist:
- Asymmetry: one half of the mole looks different from the other
- Border: the edge is irregular, ragged or blurred
- Colour: more than one shade, or a colour that has changed
- Diameter: larger than about 6mm, roughly the size of a pencil eraser
- Evolving: any change in size, shape, colour, height or sensation, including itching or bleeding
A new mole appearing in adulthood, or a mole that looks noticeably different from all your others, is also worth having checked. If any of these apply, book an appointment. In most cases we will be able to reassure you. Where there is any doubt, we will arrange for the lesion to be removed and sent for analysis, or refer you to a specialist.
Cysts and lipomas
A cyst is a sac beneath the skin filled with fluid or semi-solid material. Sebaceous or epidermoid cysts are the most common type, often appearing on the face, neck, back or scalp. They are usually painless unless they become inflamed or infected, at which point they can become red, tender and swollen.
A lipoma is a soft, rubbery lump of fatty tissue under the skin. Lipomas are benign and grow slowly, and many people have them for years without concern. People typically seek removal when a lipoma is in a visible place, is growing, or catches on clothing.
Both cysts and lipomas can be removed under local anaesthetic in clinic.
Warts, skin tags and other lesions
Warts are caused by a virus and are common on the hands and feet. They often resolve on their own eventually, but that can take years, and removal is a reasonable choice if they are painful, spreading or bothersome. Skin tags are small, soft growths that frequently appear where skin rubs, such as the neck, armpits and under the breasts. They are harmless but easily removed.
How minor procedures work at Healthium
Minor surgical procedures at Healthium Clinics are carried out by experienced doctors in our CQC-registered clinic, usually in a single appointment. The process is:
Assessment. The doctor examines the lesion, often using a dermatoscope for moles, and discusses whether removal is advisable, cosmetic or unnecessary. If a lesion needs further investigation, we will explain what happens next.
Consent and preparation. We talk through the procedure, the likely scar, aftercare and any risks. The area is cleaned and numbed with a local anaesthetic injection.
The procedure. Depending on the lesion, this may involve excision (cutting out the lesion and closing with fine stitches), shave removal, cryotherapy (freezing) or another technique. Most procedures take between 15 and 45 minutes.
Aftercare. You go home the same day with clear instructions. Stitches, if used, are typically removed after one to two weeks. We will let you know if the lesion has been sent for histology and contact you with the result.
Scarring
Any procedure that goes through the skin will leave some mark. The aim is to make it as fine and unobtrusive as possible. Our doctors plan incisions along natural skin lines, use fine sutures and give you advice on wound care and sun protection, which is the single most important factor in how a scar matures during the summer months.
When to seek urgent advice
A skin lesion that is bleeding without injury, growing rapidly, or has become painful, hot and red should be seen promptly. If you cannot get a timely NHS appointment, same-day private appointments are usually available at Healthium.
To book a skin lesion check or minor procedure consultation at our Henley-on-Thames clinic, call 01628 876439 or book online. No referral is required.
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