Excisional biopsy or definitive excision is used for concerning pigmented lesions, selected keratinocyte cancers after diagnostic confirmation, and some benign growths causing symptoms. Canadian primary-care clinicians follow dermatology referral pathways for lesions with high malignant potential or complex facial/subunit anatomy. Patient education on melanoma awareness is supported by resources such as the Canadian Dermatology Association public pages.
We discuss scar trade-offs, wound care, nerve injury risks near cosmetically sensitive areas, and pathology turnaround.
What This Service Includes
Lesion assessment
ABCDE melanoma cues, dermoscopy when available, prior biopsy results.
Design & anesthesia
Respect relaxed skin tension lines where feasible; local anesthetic field block.
Repair & pathology
Deep dermal + cuticular closure; specimen orientation marked if needed.
What to Expect
Consent & prep
Anticoagulants, allergies, expected scar, pathology fees (if uninsured portions).
Excise
Full-thickness specimen to fat or appropriate depth per lesion type.
Close & counsel
Suture removal timing, activity limits, signs of infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes—all excisions create a linear scar; technique minimizes tension and dog-ears where possible.
Typically 1–3 weeks depending on lab; we contact you about benign versus actionable findings.
Protect the healing wound from UV to reduce hyperpigmentation; follow our dressing plan.
Re-excision versus Mohs or plastic surgery referral depends on diagnosis and location—planned with you.