Lesion Removal

This treatment is good for

removing non-cancerous:

  • cysts
  • warts
  • moles
  • skin tags
  • blemishes
  • minor abscesses

About lesion removal

We use a variety of methods to remove skin lesions. Our physician evaluates the lesion to assess what causes the abnormal growth. Some growths are of concern and should be evaluated further. Lesions which are determined benign can be removed using one or more of the following methods.


Our physicians use a very fine tip to apply a small amount of ultra-cold solution over the lesion. This will kill the lesion tissues, which will fall off in one to two weeks after treatment.* The procedure is simple and relatively painless, but repeat treatments are often required,* and there can be some collateral tissue damage around the treatment site.*


Our physicians use a fine-tip surgical cautery instrument which burns the lesion. This method is simple and often very effective with just one treatment.* There is also less collateral tissue damage than cryosurgery. However the method is a bit more painful, sometimes requiring local anaesthetic which numbs the skin.*


Our physicians numb the skin around the lesion with a local anaesthetic then uses surgical instruments to remove any abnormal tissue. Sometimes stitches are required.

Incision and drainage (I&D)

For abscess and cysts, our physicians anaesthetizes the skin around the lesion then makes a small incision in the skin wall of the lesion. Once the lesion is opened, the physician uses pressure or surgical tools to remove abnormal fluid accumulations. Depending on the type of lesion, the small amounts tissue creating the sac of the lesion may need to be cut away, leaving only healthy normal tissue.* With larger lesions the surgical site might require a couple of stitches or wound packing to allow of continued drainage.*


Intralesional corticosteroid injection (cortisone shot) is a diluted version of a corticosteroid that is injected directly into the papule or nodule (cyst). Since steroids are anti-inflammatory, the injection works by reducing the inflammatory reaction that your body mounts in response to the P. acnes bacteria which caused the cyst or pimple. This anti-inflammatory reaction flattens cysts and pimples on the skin. Injections are normally relatively painless*, but for larger cysts a small injection of local anesthetic can reduce any discomfort you might experience. Results begin to show within hours of the injection*, and within 24 hours minor pimples and cysts completely flatten.*


This method uses mild acids to burn the lesion. This is effective only for small lesions and often requires multiple treatments or a number of days.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the treatment take?

This varies depending on the lesion. Most lesions can be treated in 30 minutes or less.*

When will I see results?

This varies depending on the lesion; our doctor can help you understand during your consultation visit. Sometimes multiple treatments are required.* Lesions can sometimes grow back depending on what causes them.*

How long do the results last?

This varies depending on the lesion.

How much does it cost?

This starts at $50 and varies depending on the lesion.* Sometimes insurance will cover a portion of the cost.* We can help you better understand costs at your consultation visit.

* Your results may vary.

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