Will excision leave a visible scar?

Any incision leaves a scar, but its visibility depends on the size, area, surgical technique and your healing capacity. The surgeon will explain the options for minimising the aesthetic impact.

Will I receive the histopathological report?

If a specimen is sent to the laboratory, the result will be communicated to you during post-operative follow-up. It may guide any subsequent treatment.

Can I drive after the procedure?

If the procedure was performed under local anaesthesia without sedation, driving is generally possible. After sedation or general anaesthesia, you will need to be accompanied and wait for the anaesthetic effects to wear off.

When can I resume sporting activities?

Depending on the extent of the excision and the area treated, resumption of sport is often possible after 2 to 4 weeks; your surgeon will specify a personalised timeframe.

Is skin excision covered by the French national health insurance?

Yes, when the indication is medical: suspicious lesion (carcinoma, melanoma), symptomatic lesion (irritation, bleeding, discomfort), inflammatory cyst or lipoma. Coverage includes the surgeon's standard fees, theatre fees and the histopathological examination. Fee surcharges may apply depending on the practitioner and are reimbursed by your supplementary insurance. For purely aesthetic excision (benign lesion without discomfort), there is no coverage.

How much does skin excision cost in Paris?

With national health insurance coverage, the out-of-pocket cost depends on your supplementary insurance contract and any fee surcharges. Without coverage (aesthetic indication), a simple excision in Paris costs between €200 and €600 depending on size and complexity, including histopathological examination if needed. A quote is provided at the consultation.

What scars can be expected after an excision?

The scar depends on several factors: lesion size, area (the face heals better than the back), individual healing tendency, post-operative care. The excision pattern is planned to follow the skin's natural lines and minimise visibility. A fine and discreet scar is the goal. Post-operative care (massage, silicone gel, sun protection) optimises evolution over 12–18 months.

What types of excision are possible?

Several techniques depending on the lesion: spindle (fusiform) excision (the most common, for moles and various lesions), shave excision (tangential shave, for raised lesions), diamond or orange-segment excision depending on shape, excision with reconstructive flap for difficult areas (face, back of the hand). The choice is made according to the lesion, its size and location.

What if the histopathological examination reveals a suspicious lesion?

A complementary excision (re-cut) can be proposed if safety margins are insufficient (for example in case of melanoma), to ensure complete removal. Depending on the diagnosis, regular dermatological follow-up is set up. For common skin cancers (basal cell carcinomas), the prognosis is generally excellent after complete excision. Any suspicious lesion is thus managed within a coordinated care pathway.

Skin excision

Example photo, no result can be guaranteed

Skin excision refers to the surgical removal of a skin lesion (mole, keratosis, cyst, nodule, suspicious lesion, etc.). It may be performed for diagnostic purposes (biopsy/excision for histological analysis), therapeutic purposes (removal of a bothersome or painful lesion) or aesthetic purposes (correction of a visible skin anomaly). Patients' motivations are varied: comfort, diagnosis, prevention or the desire for aesthetic improvement while maintaining a natural and harmonious appearance. This information is of an informative nature and does not replace a personalised medical consultation.

The different techniques

Simple excision (scalpel)

The most common technique for small superficial lesions.
An incision adapted to the shape and size of the lesion, closed with sutures.
Advantages: quick procedure, generally a fine scar when performed under good conditions.
Limitations: limited lesion size and the need for histopathological analysis depending on the indication.

Fusiform excision and layered closure

For the removal of larger lesions or when the scar axis must be respected for a better aesthetic result.
Closure in multiple layers (subcutaneous then cutaneous) to limit tension on the skin.

Wider excision (extended margins)

Indicated in cases of suspicious or confirmed lesions (certain skin cancers), to ensure clear margins around the lesion.
May require skin reconstruction (flap, skin graft) depending on the size and location.

Instrumental alternatives (electrosurgery, laser, cryotherapy)

Certain benign lesions can be treated by laser, electrocoagulation or cryotherapy.
These techniques may leave less tissue available for histological examination; they have specific indications and limitations with regard to diagnosis.

Pre-operative consultation

Medical history: collection of medical history, current treatments (anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents), allergies, history of healing problems or keloids.
Clinical examination: inspection of the lesion (size, colour, depth), examination of surrounding tissues and pre-operative photographs for traceability.
Discussion of the technical choice: simple excision, extended margins, possibility of skin reconstruction, need for histopathological examination.
Information on risks, the operative procedure, aftercare and alternatives.
Provision of a quote if the procedure falls under aesthetic surgery and the mandatory 15-day reflection period for any procedure performed for aesthetic purposes.
Informed consent and organisation of any sample collection for histological analysis.

Procedure

Anaesthesia: most often local. Sedation or general anaesthesia may be proposed if the size, location or patient's condition requires it.
Duration: variable (generally 10 to 60 minutes depending on the size and complexity).
Main steps: antisepsis, localisation of the lesion, local anaesthesia, excision according to the chosen technique, haemostasis, closure by sutures or skin reconstruction, dressing.
Hospitalisation: most often day surgery (discharge on the same day). For extensive excisions or those requiring monitoring, a short stay may be planned.
Traceability: operative report, submission of the specimen for histopathology if indicated, prescriptions and written instructions for post-operative care.

Post-operative recovery

Pain and discomfort: generally moderate, controlled by simple analgesics.
Local care: dressings, cleaning as prescribed, possible application of healing cream after suturing.
Suture removal: depending on the area, between 7 and 21 days (earlier on the face, later on the trunk and limbs).
Activities: return to work often within a few days if the activity is not physical; sports and intense efforts are generally deferred for 2 to 4 weeks depending on the extent of the procedure.
Monitoring: warning signs (excessive redness, increasing pain, purulent discharge, fever) require medical contact.
Scheduled follow-up: post-operative consultation for review and delivery of histopathology results if a specimen was sent.

Results and limitations

Evolution: the aesthetic result evolves over several months; the scar gradually fades but remains visible.
Variability: the appearance and quality of healing depend on individual factors (skin type, age, location, skin tension, smoking).
Durability: if the lesion was benign, excision is definitive; in the case of a tumorous lesion, dermatological or oncological follow-up may be required.
Importance of histological analysis: it may modify subsequent management (need for further excision, enhanced surveillance).

Risks and complications

General complications: infection, bleeding or haematoma, prolonged pain.
Local complications: hypertrophic or keloid scar, wound dehiscence, loss of sensitivity (paraesthesia) or, more rarely, skin necrosis.
Anaesthesia-related risk: local or general reactions (rare).
Diagnostic risk: discovery of an unforeseen malignant lesion requiring additional treatment.
These risks remain rare and will be detailed and contextualised during the medical consultation.

Alternatives and non-surgical options

Monitoring: regular examination if the lesion does not have a suspicious character.
Cryotherapy: for certain superficial benign lesions (limitations: no histological analysis).
Laser or electrocoagulation: suitable for selected lesions; may compromise the possibility of histopathological examination.
Aesthetic medicine (peels, injections): not indicated for the treatment of a skin lesion requiring histological diagnosis.
The choice will depend on the nature of the lesion, the need for diagnosis and the patient's objectives.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Skin excision

Example photo, no result can be guaranteed

The different techniques

Simple excision (scalpel)

The most common technique for small superficial lesions.
An incision adapted to the shape and size of the lesion, closed with sutures.
Advantages: quick procedure, generally a fine scar when performed under good conditions.
Limitations: limited lesion size and the need for histopathological analysis depending on the indication.

Fusiform excision and layered closure

For the removal of larger lesions or when the scar axis must be respected for a better aesthetic result.
Closure in multiple layers (subcutaneous then cutaneous) to limit tension on the skin.

Wider excision (extended margins)

Indicated in cases of suspicious or confirmed lesions (certain skin cancers), to ensure clear margins around the lesion.
May require skin reconstruction (flap, skin graft) depending on the size and location.

Instrumental alternatives (electrosurgery, laser, cryotherapy)

Certain benign lesions can be treated by laser, electrocoagulation or cryotherapy.
These techniques may leave less tissue available for histological examination; they have specific indications and limitations with regard to diagnosis.

Pre-operative consultation

Medical history: collection of medical history, current treatments (anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents), allergies, history of healing problems or keloids.
Clinical examination: inspection of the lesion (size, colour, depth), examination of surrounding tissues and pre-operative photographs for traceability.
Discussion of the technical choice: simple excision, extended margins, possibility of skin reconstruction, need for histopathological examination.
Information on risks, the operative procedure, aftercare and alternatives.
Provision of a quote if the procedure falls under aesthetic surgery and the mandatory 15-day reflection period for any procedure performed for aesthetic purposes.
Informed consent and organisation of any sample collection for histological analysis.

Procedure

Anaesthesia: most often local. Sedation or general anaesthesia may be proposed if the size, location or patient's condition requires it.
Duration: variable (generally 10 to 60 minutes depending on the size and complexity).
Main steps: antisepsis, localisation of the lesion, local anaesthesia, excision according to the chosen technique, haemostasis, closure by sutures or skin reconstruction, dressing.
Hospitalisation: most often day surgery (discharge on the same day). For extensive excisions or those requiring monitoring, a short stay may be planned.
Traceability: operative report, submission of the specimen for histopathology if indicated, prescriptions and written instructions for post-operative care.

Post-operative recovery

Pain and discomfort: generally moderate, controlled by simple analgesics.
Local care: dressings, cleaning as prescribed, possible application of healing cream after suturing.
Suture removal: depending on the area, between 7 and 21 days (earlier on the face, later on the trunk and limbs).
Activities: return to work often within a few days if the activity is not physical; sports and intense efforts are generally deferred for 2 to 4 weeks depending on the extent of the procedure.
Monitoring: warning signs (excessive redness, increasing pain, purulent discharge, fever) require medical contact.
Scheduled follow-up: post-operative consultation for review and delivery of histopathology results if a specimen was sent.

Results and limitations

Evolution: the aesthetic result evolves over several months; the scar gradually fades but remains visible.
Variability: the appearance and quality of healing depend on individual factors (skin type, age, location, skin tension, smoking).
Durability: if the lesion was benign, excision is definitive; in the case of a tumorous lesion, dermatological or oncological follow-up may be required.
Importance of histological analysis: it may modify subsequent management (need for further excision, enhanced surveillance).

Risks and complications

General complications: infection, bleeding or haematoma, prolonged pain.
Local complications: hypertrophic or keloid scar, wound dehiscence, loss of sensitivity (paraesthesia) or, more rarely, skin necrosis.
Anaesthesia-related risk: local or general reactions (rare).
Diagnostic risk: discovery of an unforeseen malignant lesion requiring additional treatment.
These risks remain rare and will be detailed and contextualised during the medical consultation.

Alternatives and non-surgical options

Monitoring: regular examination if the lesion does not have a suspicious character.
Cryotherapy: for certain superficial benign lesions (limitations: no histological analysis).
Laser or electrocoagulation: suitable for selected lesions; may compromise the possibility of histopathological examination.
Aesthetic medicine (peels, injections): not indicated for the treatment of a skin lesion requiring histological diagnosis.
The choice will depend on the nature of the lesion, the need for diagnosis and the patient's objectives.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Last updated : 20 October 2018

Frequently asked questions

Your questions, our answers

Will excision leave a visible scar?
Any incision leaves a scar, but its visibility depends on the size, area, surgical technique and your healing capacity. The surgeon will explain the options for minimising the aesthetic impact.
Will I receive the histopathological report?
If a specimen is sent to the laboratory, the result will be communicated to you during post-operative follow-up. It may guide any subsequent treatment.
Can I drive after the procedure?
If the procedure was performed under local anaesthesia without sedation, driving is generally possible. After sedation or general anaesthesia, you will need to be accompanied and wait for the anaesthetic effects to wear off.
When can I resume sporting activities?
Depending on the extent of the excision and the area treated, resumption of sport is often possible after 2 to 4 weeks; your surgeon will specify a personalised timeframe.
Is skin excision covered by the French national health insurance?
Yes, when the indication is medical: suspicious lesion (carcinoma, melanoma), symptomatic lesion (irritation, bleeding, discomfort), inflammatory cyst or lipoma. Coverage includes the surgeon's standard fees, theatre fees and the histopathological examination. Fee surcharges may apply depending on the practitioner and are reimbursed by your supplementary insurance. For purely aesthetic excision (benign lesion without discomfort), there is no coverage.
How much does skin excision cost in Paris?
With national health insurance coverage, the out-of-pocket cost depends on your supplementary insurance contract and any fee surcharges. Without coverage (aesthetic indication), a simple excision in Paris costs between €200 and €600 depending on size and complexity, including histopathological examination if needed. A quote is provided at the consultation.
What scars can be expected after an excision?
The scar depends on several factors: lesion size, area (the face heals better than the back), individual healing tendency, post-operative care. The excision pattern is planned to follow the skin's natural lines and minimise visibility. A fine and discreet scar is the goal. Post-operative care (massage, silicone gel, sun protection) optimises evolution over 12–18 months.
What types of excision are possible?
Several techniques depending on the lesion: spindle (fusiform) excision (the most common, for moles and various lesions), shave excision (tangential shave, for raised lesions), diamond or orange-segment excision depending on shape, excision with reconstructive flap for difficult areas (face, back of the hand). The choice is made according to the lesion, its size and location.
What if the histopathological examination reveals a suspicious lesion?
A complementary excision (re-cut) can be proposed if safety margins are insufficient (for example in case of melanoma), to ensure complete removal. Depending on the diagnosis, regular dermatological follow-up is set up. For common skin cancers (basal cell carcinomas), the prognosis is generally excellent after complete excision. Any suspicious lesion is thus managed within a coordinated care pathway.

About the surgeon

Pr Ignacio Garrido

Plastic and aesthetic surgeon

Pr Ignacio Garrido is a qualified plastic surgeon practising at the Clinique Alphand in Paris 16. Specialising in facial, breast and body surgery, he supports his patients with a rigorous and personalised medical approach.

Book an appointment 06 60 84 75 78 See full profile

The information presented on this site is for general informational purposes only. It does not replace an individualised medical consultation. Any therapeutic decision must be made following discussion with the practitioner. No guarantee of results can be given.