Excisions for Benign and Malignant Growths
Sun damage can cause noncancerous (benign) growths in the skin. Benign growths also include skin tags and keloids that are the result of aging or injury. We may need to remove the growth using a surgical procedure called an excision.
At Cedars-Sinai, you receive care from board-certified dermatologists who perform a high volume of excisions. You'll get appropriate care and procedures that prevent or minimize scars.
Our Approach to Benign and Malignant Skin Growths
Many benign and malignant growths do not require treatment, but if you have one that does, doctors at Cedars-Sinai are here for you.
Our approach includes:
Focus on Prevention
Some benign skin growths can become cancerous, which is why it's important to come to an experienced program such as ours. Our board-certified dermatologists perform comprehensive evaluations to detect and remove the earliest signs of skin cancer. Find out more about surgical dermatology.
Personalized Treatments
We determine the surgical procedure that's best for you based on the type of growth and its location. Your care may include a standard excision, where we remove only the area of concern. In some cases, we also remove a small section of nearby skin (wide local excision) to lower your cancer risk.
Cosmetic Excisions
If a benign growth is making you self-conscious about your appearance, we can remove it. Cosmetic excisions are often not covered by insurance, but we discuss potential costs upfront, so you know what to expect. Get more information about our cosmetic dermatology services.
Types of Skin Growths We Treat With Excision
Conditions we treat include:
- Epidermoid cysts
- Freckles and moles that change over time
- Lipomas
- Scars and keloids
- Skin tags or other benign growths
Have Questions or Need Help?
To make an appointment or refer a patient, call the Dermatology care team. You can also have us call you back at your convenience.