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Skin Lesion Removal and Minor Procedures

Dr. Claudia Lakay18 March 2026

Skin lesions are extremely common and range from harmless cosmetic concerns to potentially serious conditions requiring prompt attention. At NeoHealth, Dr. Lakay performs a variety of minor surgical procedures for the safe removal and management of skin lesions in a comfortable in-office setting.

Common skin lesions include moles (naevi), which are usually benign pigmented spots; warts, caused by the human papillomavirus; sebaceous cysts, which are firm lumps beneath the skin filled with keratin; skin tags, small benign growths that often appear in skin folds; and lipomas, soft fatty lumps under the skin. Most of these are harmless, but any lesion that changes in size, shape, colour, or texture, bleeds without injury, or becomes painful should be evaluated promptly.

The ABCDE rule is a useful guide for monitoring moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter greater than 6mm, and Evolution or change over time. If any of these features are present, seek medical assessment without delay, as these can be signs of melanoma.

In-office removal procedures vary depending on the lesion type and location. Options include excision (cutting out the lesion under local anaesthetic), shave removal for raised lesions, cryotherapy (freezing) for warts and small superficial lesions, and incision and drainage for certain cysts. All procedures are performed under sterile conditions with local anaesthesia, and most patients return to normal activities immediately.

Aftercare is straightforward: keep the wound clean and dry, apply the prescribed ointment, avoid sun exposure on the treated area, and attend your follow-up appointment. Excised lesions are sent for histological examination to confirm the diagnosis. Dr. Lakay also offers aesthetic removal options for lesions in visible areas, ensuring the best possible cosmetic outcome. Book a skin assessment at NeoHealth if you have any lesion causing concern.

About the Author

Dr. Claudia Lakay

General Practitioner & Co-founder

One of the few female GPs in George offering dedicated women's health care, Dr. Lakay specialises in cervical cancer screening, IUD procedures, contraception management, hormonal health assessment (PC...

MBChB (Stellenbosch University)

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