Head & Neck Lumps - Skin Lesions

Head and neck lumps can be caused by a variety of conditions ranging from benign to malignant.Your primary care provider would assess these and decide to treat first and then do some preliminary investigations. A referral to an Otolaryngologist may be needed for further management.

Unhealing skin lesions, located on the ear, nose, head and neck, may be infective process or inflammatory process that can be treated by your family doctor. However, if they are unresolving or look suspicious you may be referred to an Otolaryngologist for assessment, biopsy or excision.

EXCISIONS

The excision of non-malignant skin lesions and Ear lobe repair are minor surgical procedures to remove benign(non-cancerous) skin growths, such as moles, skin tags, and other non-cancerous lesions. Also repairing ear lobe tears and refashioning enlarged ear ring piercings. It is usually performed for cosmetic reasons, to relieve discomfort, or to prevent infection.

Indications for Excision

Non-malignant lesions may be removed if they:

Cause irritation (due to friction from clothing or movement).
Are painful, inflamed, or infected.
Are growing or changing in appearance.
Are located in cosmetically sensitive areas.
Interfere with daily activities.

Repair of ear lobe:

After tears or split ear lobe
To repierce ear ring due to enlarged piercing

Procedure Overview

1. Preparation:

The area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
A local anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine) is injected to numb the area.

2. Excision:

The lesion is carefully removed with a scalpel.
A small margin of normal skin may be taken to ensure complete removal.

3. Closure:

The wound may be closed with stitches (if deep) or left to heal naturally.
Adhesive strips or skin glue may be used in some cases.

4. Aftercare:

Keep the wound clean and dry.
Apply antibiotic ointment as directed, only if Dr. Samy instructed this.
Avoid strenuous activity until the wound heals.
Stitches (if used) are typically removed in 7-14 days.

5. Possible Risks and Complications

Bleeding or bruising
Infection
Scarring
Nerve damage (rare)
Recurrence of the lesion

Non-cancerous lesion excisions are not covered by OHIP.

Dr. Samy's surgical fee for these procedures are ranging from $75-250 depending on the size or complexity of the excision or repair.