Cosmetic Lesion Removal

New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, due to strong UV exposure and the effects of ozone depletion. This means that any new, changing, or unusual lesion should always be checked by a doctor before cosmetic removal.

Skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, can sometimes resemble harmless spots or moles. Early detection and treatment are critical for the best outcomes.

For this reason:

• Cosmetic lesion removal should only be considered after a healthcare professional has confirmed the lesion is benign.

• Suspicious lesions may require biopsy, monitoring, or referral to a skin cancer specialist rather than cosmetic removal.

• If in doubt, prioritise a medical assessment over cosmetic treatment.

Common benign lesions removed for cosmetic reasons include:

• Moles (only if confirmed benign by a doctor)

• Skin tags (soft, hanging skin growths)

• Seborrhoeic keratoses (warty, stuck-on growths)

• Solar lentigines (sun spots or age spots)

• Milia (small white cysts under the skin)

• Warts (caused by the human papillomavirus)

Different methods are used depending on the lesion type, size, and location:

• Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze lesions. Commonly used for thickened spots such as seborrhoeic keratoses or some precancerous changes.

• Radiofrequency (Surgitron) treatment removes raised lesions such as skin tags, benign moles, or seborrhoeic keratoses by gently shaving thin layers of tissue. Local anaesthetic is used beforehand. Healing is often quick with minimal scarring.

• Surgical excision involves cutting out the lesion, often with a margin of surrounding skin, under local anaesthetic. The specimen is sent to a laboratory for histology (microscopic analysis). Stitches are required and aftercare is more involved than other methods. Excision is usually recommended for flat moles or lesions that may have features of malignancy.

• Electrosurgery or cautery uses heat or electrical current to remove tissue or seal blood vessels.

• Laser removal may be used for pigmented or raised lesions, depending on their nature.

Your practitioner will recommend the safest and most appropriate method.

Healing depends on the type of treatment, but in most cases:

• Recovery takes 10–14 days, though areas like the face may heal faster.

• The treated area may appear pinkish for a few weeks before gradually blending with surrounding skin.

• Keeping the wound moist (e.g., with a barrier ointment) can reduce scarring, as hydrated wounds generally heal with better outcomes.

• Some procedures may require dressings or protective tape to support healing and minimise scarring.

• Avoid sun exposure while healing, and use at least SPF 30+ sunscreen on the treated area for several months.

In most cases, once a benign lesion is completely removed, the chance of it returning in the same area is low. Some treatments (such as shaving or freezing) may carry a small chance of recurrence. Your doctor can advise based on the treatment method.

Any procedure that disrupts the skin barrier carries some risks, although these are generally uncommon. Possible risks include:

• Bleeding or bruising

• Infection

• Thickened or visible scars

• Temporary changes in skin colour

• Altered sensation near the treated area

Your practitioner should discuss these with you beforehand and provide an informed consent process.

In New Zealand, lesion removal should only be performed by a registered healthcare practitioner trained in skin assessment and minor surgical procedures. This ensures accurate diagnosis, safe technique, and proper management if complications occur.

NZSCM recommends choosing a provider who:

• Is registered with the Medical or Nursing Council of New Zealand

• Has training in skin lesion recognition and minor surgery

• Works in a clinical environment with appropriate infection control

• Provides a thorough consultation, explains risks and benefits, and obtains informed consent

Patients can trust that NZSCM-accredited doctors are trained and assessed across all of these domains.

• How do you know this lesion is benign?

• Which removal method do you recommend, and why?

• Will the specimen be sent for laboratory testing?

• What are the risks, including scarring?

• What aftercare will I need?

• What follow-up is required?