If you have a skin lesion such as a mole, cyst, and wart and would like it removed, it is usually a very simple procedure. You may want to take this step now because you have noticed changes in shape or color, or it may be unsightly, painful or restricting your movement. You might have just become fed up with it, and decided it’s time to deal with it.

Most lesions are removed using a scalpel under local anesthetic, which means you will be awake, but the area will be completely numb. Other techniques include applying chemical treatments or freezing the skin. Sometimes a laser is used to destroy the lesion while skin tags may be simply snipped off with surgical scissors.

Removing a skin lesion is usually a quick and straightforward procedure and is most often performed as an out-patient or day-case procedure. There is normally no need to stay in hospital overnight.