About this service
Shave excision removes a raised lesion using a controlled, superficial technique. The clinician first confirms that this method is appropriate and explains the expected flat scar, healing process and possibility of recurrence.
Minor Surgery
Shave Excision
Removal of a suitable raised skin lesion close to the skin surface.
What the pathway covers
- Assessment and marking of the treatment site
- Local anaesthetic and shave removal of the lesion
- Bleeding control, dressing, aftercare and histology where advised
Before your appointment
- Disclose blood-thinning medication, allergies and previous scar problems
- Ask whether the specimen will be sent for histology
- Allow for dressing care and temporary activity restrictions
What is a shave excision?
A shave excision removes the part of a suitable skin lesion that projects above the surrounding skin. It differs from a full surgical excision because it does not usually remove an ellipse of deeper skin or require stitches. The technique may be considered for selected raised lesions after a clinician has assessed their appearance and location.
What happens during treatment?
Local anaesthetic is injected around the lesion. Once the skin is numb, the raised tissue is removed with a sterile blade and bleeding is controlled, sometimes using cautery. If diagnostic confirmation is required, the tissue may be sent for histology. Not every lesion is suitable for this approach.
Recovery and limitations
The treated area generally heals like a graze and forms a scab before new skin develops. Healing time varies with the site, depth and individual. Possible outcomes include a pale, darker or indented mark, infection, bleeding, delayed healing and regrowth if deeper lesion cells remain. The clinician should discuss whether shave excision, another procedure or no treatment is the safest choice.
- Do not pick the scab or apply unapproved products
- Protect the healed area from strong sunlight
- Contact the clinic if bleeding does not settle with firm pressure
Important to know
Shave excision is not appropriate for every mole or lesion. A deeper excision or diagnostic pathway may be recommended instead.
Next step
Ask about Shave Excision.
Tell the team you are enquiring about Shave Excision so they can direct you to the correct appointment.