What is an Excision? 

An excision is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that requires a small incision at or near the affected site. If the excision is due to a cyst or abscess the area is drained through the incision. The doctor may go for wide excision or minimal excision depending on the size, location, and severity.  

Indications for Excision 

An excision is indicated if a growth has become more prominent, painful, swollen, itchy, is ruptured or leaking, or an abscess has formed.  

Risks 

Risks of excision are

• bleeding  

• swelling  

• pain 

• scarring  

• infection  

• blood clot 

What to expect 

Before the procedure 

The doctor may order an ultrasound, CT, or MRI scan to get a detailed image for further examination. The patient is advised to wash the affected area and not to shave the affected area the day before the surgery. If you take aspirin or other medications that thin the blood, or heart medications that affect platelets, the doctor may need to adjust your dosages or have you stop taking these medications temporarily. 

During the procedure 

The doctor administers local anesthesia to the affected area and cleans it before the procedure. A small incision is made on the area. Depending on the type and size of the growth, the doctor may drain it and remove the cyst wall. Once the procedure is completed, the doctor closes the surgery site with sutures or an antibiotic and gauze. 

After the procedure 

The doctor will give you instructions to avoid infection and for proper care of the wound. Eating light food, changing dressings according to instructions, and staying away from strenuous physical activities for a few days will help with recovery. 

Results 

You will have a follow up appointment with your doctor to review the results of any samples taken during the excision.