52036 - Small Lesion Removal (≤ 3 cm)

The need for surgical excision of a tumour, cyst, ulcer, or scar up to 3 cm in diameter from the skin, subcutaneous tissue, or mucous membrane of the oral and maxillofacial region arises when these small lesions pose health risks, cause symptoms, or affect appearance, requiring complete removal for diagnosis or resolution. These abnormalities—whether benign, malignant, or chronic—often persist despite conservative treatment, necessitating a definitive approach under anesthesia with suturing to ensure proper healing. This procedure is critical in cosmetically sensitive or functional areas where leaving the lesion could lead to progression or complications.

Reasons include:

• Diagnostic clarity: A small mucosal tumour on the lip might be cancerous, needing excision for biopsy to guide further care.
• Symptomatic relief: A cyst under the skin causing pain or pressure requires removal to alleviate discomfort and prevent growth.
• Chronic ulcers: A persistent oral ulcer might harbor malignancy or infection, needing excision to heal and rule out cancer.
• Scar revision: A small facial scar causing tightness or distortion can be excised to improve function or aesthetics.

For example, a young adult with a 2 cm cyst on the cheek noticed during a routine exam might need this to prevent infection or disfigurement. In aged care, an elderly patient with a chronic lip ulcer could require this to check for malignancy, given their higher cancer risk. By removing the lesion and suturing the site, this service eliminates the problem, provides tissue for analysis, and restores normalcy, making it a key intervention for small but significant maxillofacial issues.

Surgeons removing a tumor, cyst, ulcer, or scar up to 3 cm from the patient’s skin, subcutaneous tissue, or mucosa via excision and suturing under anesthesia provide diagnostic and therapeutic benefits. A key advantage is pathology removal. This procedure eliminates the patient’s abnormal growth or lesion, relieving symptoms like pain or irritation—essential for 'small lesion removal benefits.' It also confirms diagnosis through excised tissue analysis, giving surgeons clarity on the patient’s condition for further care planning. Additionally, it improves the patient’s comfort or appearance by resolving unsightly or bothersome lesions, particularly in visible areas. For surgeons researching 'benefits of minor excision,' this service ensures patients experience lesion elimination, diagnostic confirmation, and enhanced well-being, offering a precise, effective solution for smaller abnormalities.

Recovery of 1-2 weeks with swelling; sutures removed in 5-7 days.