Shave Excision

What is shave excision?

A shave excision is a surgical procedure where we remove a growth using a specialized curved blade, to level it at the height of surrounding skin. Sometimes, a microsurgery scissor may be used instead – this is called a snip excision. The specimen that is collected during treatment is sent to the lab to confirm the diagnosis by analysis. 

What can a shave excision treat?

This procedure is best suited for skin growths that sit on the surface of the skin. Once the spot has been determined as benign, such as a mole, age spot or skin tag, treating it for cosmetic purposes is a personal choice. 

What is the recovery like after a shave excision?

On the day of treatment, we review the procedure with you, you sign forms and we take photos in our dedicated photo studio. The skin is cleansed and numbing agent is injected at the treatment area. Local anesthetic is very effective at controlling the pain from treatment. Once the spot is sampled, we use either a special solution or an electrocautery to stop any oozing from capillaries. Ointment and a dressing are applied. 

All patients should expect the area to heal from the bottom over about 7 days for a spot on the face and 14+ days on the body, possibly with a crust/scab. A few weeks after the procedure, the area will appear more red than surrounding skin. We avoid treating tanned skin and advise to avoid direct sun exposure to minimize rare risks of hyperpigmentation. Thorough aftercare to prevent an infection will minimize the appearance of a scar. 

Infections are rare, but can occur. They usually present 4-7 days after the procedure with new pain, new redness, pus or swelling. Contact the office immediately if this happens so we may treat it. 

Curious to see if you are a candidate for this procedure ? Contact our office for a consultation.