Minor Surgery
Mole removal and other lesion removal are commonly undertaken for a number of reasons which can include:
- A mole/spot that has changed (size,colour, shape) or has been diagnosed by Dr or Nurse Dermoscopist as being of concern
- The lesion is causing you discomfort.
- The lesion is annoying, keeps catching onto things or repeatedly bleeds.
- The lesion is unsightly and you want it removed for cosmetic reasons.
It is normally undertaken under local anaesthetic (numbing injections around the affected area) to minimise pain from the procedure. This means that you will be awake during the minor surgery.
The doctor will plan the procedure to ensure the best possible outcome for each individual and will take your personal preferences and concerns into consideration.
Planning is always a balance of ensuring adequate mole removal and lesion removal against functional and cosmetic outcomes.
There are several doctors in the practice who are able to perform surgical procedures. Dr Bhargava performs the Health New Zealand surgeries but also provides support/oversight for the other doctors in the practice particularly for complex lesions.
Treatment is only offered if it is needed. Some of the treatments/procedures we use are:
- Topical treatment with Aldara or Efudix
- Liquid nitrogen
- Shave excision
- Punch biopsy
- Excision with primary closure
- Excision with Flap or graft closure.
If a mole or area of concern has been identified, you will be advised of the best treatment options available to you.
If you have skin lesion that you are concerned about please phone to speak to one of our Dermoscopy Nurses.
On a monthly basis we have a well renowned private surgeon Dr Richard Martin come to the practice to see patients and to perform minor procedures. Richard trained as a general surgeon further specialising on head and neck surgery and skin cancers. Patients can be referred to Richard if desired or required.
