Excisions

biopsies

During this procedure, a small skin sample is removed under local anaesthesia. The wound is then closed with a few stitches using a thread, removed 1 or 2 weeks later, depending on the location. Although the suture line will remain relatively visible for the first 3 to 6 months, the scar will fade progressively thereafter.

Shave excisions

During this procedure, a superficial skin sample is removed under local anaesthetic, resulting in a wound, like in an abrasion. The bleeding is stopped with a haemostatic solution or by using a CO2 laser. A crust will then form and fall off by itself after a few days, stitching not required to treat such wounds. Redness or a slight skin discolouration may remain visible on the treated area for the first few weeks, but usually, these will be hardly or no longer visible at all after some time.

Total excisions

In a total excision, the tumour is completely removed with a predefined safety margin and the wound primarily closed with a suture. Depending on the material used, the suture may need to be removed or can dissolve on its own.