Discovering a new lump or lesion on your skin can be a worrying experience. While most are harmless, it’s natural to want a professional opinion and, in many cases, to have them removed for peace of mind or cosmetic reasons. This comprehensive guide to lesion and lump removal for 2026 explains the process for diagnosing and treating common skin growths at ASET Hospital.

Our minor surgical skin procedures clinic, led by consultant plastic surgeons, is dedicated to providing expert assessment and effective treatment in a safe, clinical environment. This guide will cover the types of lumps we treat, what happens during your consultation and procedure, the recovery process, and why ASET Hospital is a trusted choice for your care.

What are Lesions and Lumps?

Skin lesions and lumps are general terms for any abnormal growth or patch of skin that differs from the surrounding area. They can appear anywhere on the body and vary widely in size, shape, and colour. At ASET Hospital, we specialise in the assessment and removal of several common types of benign (non-cancerous) growths.

Lipomas

A lipoma is a soft, fatty lump that grows slowly under the skin. They are non-cancerous and feel doughy to the touch, moving easily when prodded. While a lipoma does not pose a risk to your health, many people choose to have them removed if they become large, cause discomfort, or if they dislike the appearance. It is important to note that if a lump is growing quickly or is painful, you should consult your GP as a first step.

Cysts

A skin cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops under the skin, often appearing as a small, round bump. They are typically harmless but can sometimes become inflamed, infected, or tender. Removal is often sought for cosmetic reasons or if the cyst becomes bothersome.

Moles

Moles are common skin growths that can be present from birth or develop over time. Most moles are harmless, but any change in their size, shape, colour, or texture should be professionally evaluated. We can remove moles that are cosmetically undesirable or pose clinical concerns.

Your Consultation at ASET Hospital

Your journey begins with an essential consultation at our specialist clinic. This appointment is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and for creating a safe and effective treatment plan.

ASET Hospital’s minor surgical skin procedures clinic is led by Mr Hassan Shaaban, a fully accredited NHS consultant plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience.

During your consultation, your surgeon will:

  • Conduct a Thorough Assessment: The surgeon will carefully examine the lesion or lump, noting its size, location, and characteristics.
  • Discuss Your Medical History: A review of your general health and any history of skin conditions helps to ensure the procedure is safe for you.
  • Explain the Diagnosis and Plan: Your surgeon will discuss their findings with you. If the growth is identified as a benign condition, such as a lipoma or cyst, they will explain the options for removal.
  • Outline the Procedure: You will receive a clear explanation of the surgical technique, the type of anaesthetic to be used (usually local), and what to expect during and after the procedure. All potential risks and the nature of any scarring will be discussed in detail.

This is your time to ask questions and ensure you feel confident and fully informed before proceeding.

The Lesion and Lump Removal Procedure

The removal of benign lesions and lumps is typically a straightforward, minor surgical procedure performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home shortly after.

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia. This involves injecting medication into the area around the lump to numb it completely, so you will not feel any pain during the surgery.

Surgical Excision

This is the most common and effective method.

  1. Preparation: The skin around the lesion is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
  1. Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision in the skin over or around the lump.
  1. Removal: The lump or lesion is carefully separated from the surrounding tissue and removed. For cysts, it is important to remove the entire sac to prevent recurrence.
  1. Closure: The incision is closed with fine stitches. A protective dressing is then applied.
    The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, depending on the size and location of the growth. For lipomas, surgical excision is preferred over liposuction, as it ensures complete removal and reduces the likelihood of the lump regrowing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from minor skin surgery is generally quick, with minimal disruption to your daily routine.
Immediately After Surgery: You will be able to go home the same day. The area will remain numb for a few hours, after which you may experience mild discomfort that can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers.

The First Two Weeks:

  • Activity: You can usually return to work the next day and drive after 24 hours, as long as you feel confident to perform an emergency stop without discomfort. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for about seven days.
  • Wound Care: It’s important to keep the wound dry for the first 24 hours. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for the dressing and the wound.
  • Stitch Removal: If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they are typically removed at the hospital after about seven days.
    The area of the operation can take up to two weeks to heal fully.

Risks and Important Considerations

While lesion and lump removal is a very safe procedure, all surgery carries some potential risks. These include:

  • Scarring: It is important to understand that any surgical removal will result in a scar. Our plastic surgeons are experts in minimising scarring by using meticulous techniques and placing incisions carefully. However, some people may be prone to lumpy, wide, or red scars.
  • Infection: As with any break in the skin, there is a small risk of infection. Following aftercare instructions carefully helps to minimise this.
  • Recurrence: In some cases, particularly with cysts, there is a small chance the growth can return if any part of it is left behind.
  • Haematoma: A collection of blood can form under the skin.
  • Indentation: The removal of a large lump may leave a small depression or indentation in the skin.

Your surgeon will discuss all these factors with you during your consultation.

Why Choose ASET Hospital?

When having any skin lesion removed, you want to be in the hands of a true expert.

  • Consultant-Led Care: Our clinic is led by highly experienced consultant plastic surgeons who specialise in skin surgery, ensuring you receive the highest level of clinical care.
  • Patient Safety: We operate in a CQC-regulated hospital environment with strict safety protocols, offering a level of assurance that high-street clinics cannot match.
  • Focus on Aesthetics: As plastic surgeons, our team is skilled in techniques that aim to produce the best possible cosmetic outcome, minimising scarring wherever possible.
  • See and Treat: In many cases, we offer a “see and treat” service, where your consultation and procedure can be completed on the same day for your convenience.

Arrange Your Consultation Today

If you have a skin lump or lesion that you would like to have professionally assessed and removed, please contact our team to schedule your consultation.

Phone: 0151 426 4777
Email: enquiries@asethospital.co.uk