Skin Masses and Laceration Repair: What Happens When You Come In

By Dr. Rashna Ginwalla, Clearwater Advanced Surgical Associates, LLC

Not every reason to see a surgeon involves a major operation. Some of the most common procedures I perform are also some of the most straightforward: removing a cyst or lipoma that's been bothering you, excising a skin lesion that needs to come off, or repairing a laceration that requires more than a simple closure.

If you've been referred to my office for something like this, here's what to expect.

What I treat

Cysts and lipomas. Sebaceous cysts are sacs under the skin filled with keratin (a waxy material). Lipomas are benign fatty lumps that develop between the skin and underlying muscle layer. Both are very common and almost always benign, but they can become inflamed, infected, or simply uncomfortable enough to warrant removal. I excise them under local anesthesia, usually in the office or as an outpatient procedure.

Skin lesions. I remove and biopsy moles, growths, or lesions that have changed in appearance or that concern you or your primary care provider. Any tissue I remove gets sent to the pathology lab. I'll review the results with you at your follow-up, typically within one to two weeks.

Laceration repair. Complex lacerations — ones that are deep, irregular, over a joint, or in a cosmetically sensitive area — benefit from surgical repair to minimize scarring and ensure the layers heal properly. Whether you've come in from an urgent care referral or directly to the office, I'll examine the wound, clean it thoroughly, and close it in a way that gives it the best chance of healing well.

What the procedure involves

Most of these procedures are done with local anesthesia. You'll feel pressure and movement, but not pain. Larger excisions or lacerations in sensitive areas may be better handled in an operating room setting — I'll be upfront with you about what your situation calls for.

Closure depends on the wound: sutures, staples, skin adhesive, or steri-strips, depending on the location, depth, and tension. I'll tell you what was used and when it needs to come out (or if it dissolves on its own).

What recovery looks like

Recovery from these procedures is typically straightforward, but the wound care in the first two weeks makes a real difference in how the scar heals.

Keep it clean and moist. In the first week or two, gently clean the wound daily, apply antibiotic ointment, and keep it covered. Moist wounds scar less than wounds left open to air.

Don't pick. Let sutures, steri-strips, and any scabbing do their work. Pulling at them opens the wound and worsens the scar.

Protect from the sun. Once the wound is fully closed, keep it out of direct sun for at least twelve months. New scars sunburn easily and can darken permanently. Sunscreen or a bandage over the area is worth the habit.

Scar management. After the wound is fully healed — usually two to three weeks post-procedure — silicone-based scar gel or sheets are the most evidence-based way to minimize the final scar. Gentle massage once the sutures are out also helps. Scars continue to mature and soften for six to eighteen months, so the final result takes time to show.

Suture removal timing. This depends on where the wound is. Face: five to seven days. Scalp: seven to ten. Trunk, arms, or legs: ten to fourteen. Over a joint: fourteen days. I'll schedule your follow-up accordingly.

Activity. Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or anything that stretches or puts pressure on the wound area for one to two weeks, depending on location. Most patients return to normal life within a week or two for minor procedures.

When to come in

If you have a lump, growth, or lesion that you've been meaning to have looked at — one that's grown, changed, become uncomfortable, or simply been sitting there worrying you — come in. The workup is straightforward, the procedure is usually simple, and you'll leave with an answer and a wound care plan.

If you've had a laceration repaired elsewhere and it's not healing the way you expected, or if you want a second opinion on wound management, I'm happy to take a look.

Call the office at (208) 985-6179, or request an appointment through the patient portal.

This page is a summary. After your consultation, I'll provide you with a detailed packet covering wound care instructions specific to your procedure.