Facial skin lesions are a common skin problem, for which facial plastics may sometimes be required for treatment. These lesions could be in the form of a lump, crack, ulcer or skin discolouration. If a lesion is harmless, it is described as benign. In cases, where the lesion is diagnosed to be a sign of cancer, it is described as malignant. A majority of facial skin lesions are usually benign, and can be removed through facial plastic surgery.
If a patient wishes to remove skin lesions on their face, they should consider having a consultation with a surgeon who has received specialised training in facial plastics, such as an appropriately trained ENT surgeon. In cases where a patient notices changes in their skin lesions, such as an increase in size, ulceration, bleeding or colour, they should contact an ENT specialist immediately, as the lesion could be potentially dangerous.
Treatment for the removal of facial skin lesions
The ENT specialist will conduct a thorough assessment before advising the patient about different facial plastics, for removing the skin lesions. This treatment will depend on the size of the lesion, the area it is located, the age of the patient, cosmetic considerations, and the patient’s preferences. Below are some of the common types of facial plastics usually advised by ENT surgeons:
- Surgical excision: The lesion is removed through surgery, after which the wound is stitched together, or covered with a flap of skin.
- Curettage: This procedure includes scraping of the ulcer.
- Cryotherapy: This includes freezing the ulcer with liquid nitrogen.
- Radiotherapy: This procedure in useful in some types of malignant skin lesions.
Facial plastic surgery is usually performed after applying a local anaesthetic, and the patient can usually go home on the same day. This means that only the area around the lesion is made numb, so that the patient does not feel any discomfort while the lesion is being removed. In some cases, such as for children or anxious patients, general anaesthesia may be used, for which an overnight stay may be suggested.
Located in London, ENT London is one of UK’s premier private ENT clinics, which specialises in facial plastics. The team of highly qualified ENT surgeons at ENT London are all registered with the UK General Medical Council, and are committed to offering patients the highest level of care.
ENT London is one of UK’s leading centres for facial plastics, and can be contacted on 0207 580 6970.