Wide Local Excisions

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Summary Content

Wide Local Excision (WLE) is a surgical method used to remove abnormal or cancerous skin lesions along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue. This procedure is frequently utilized to treat skin cancers such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, as well as suspicious lesions that may have the potential to become cancerous. The main objective is to completely excise the affected area to lower the chance of recurrence.

At Rejuvenation Dermatology, Wide Local Excision procedures are thoughtfully planned to ensure optimal medical outcomes while preserving cosmetic appearance. The surgery is typically done under local anesthesia and often involves precise suturing techniques to support effective healing and reduce visible scarring. Once the lesion and surrounding tissue are removed, the wound is carefully closed, and the excised tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory for detailed examination.

Most patients experience a smooth recovery and can return to their regular activities shortly after the procedure. Wide Local Excision is a crucial and proactive measure for safeguarding long-term skin health and providing reassurance when managing serious skin conditions.

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What Is a Wide Local Excision?

Wide Local Excision is a surgical procedure designed to fully remove cancerous or potentially harmful skin lesions, including a small border of surrounding healthy tissue. This approach aims to eliminate all abnormal cells while conserving as much healthy skin as possible. It plays a vital role in maintaining skin health and preventing the spread of cancer.

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Benefits of Wide Local Excisions

Wide Local Excision provides effective treatment and supports skin health for cancerous and suspicious lesions:

  • Accurate Removal: Completely excises abnormal or cancerous tissue while preserving surrounding healthy skin.
  • Lowered Recurrence Risk: Removes all affected cells to reduce the chance of cancer returning.
  • Sustained Skin Health: Encourages proper healing and aids in long-term skin care and prevention.
  • Improved Cosmetic Outcome: Employs expert techniques to minimize scarring and maintain the skin’s natural look.

What Conditions Can Wide Local Excisions Address?

Wide Local Excision is an effective treatment for various cancerous and precancerous skin conditions:

  • Melanoma Treatment: Excises early to advanced melanomas with clear margins to prevent further spread.
  • Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers: Thoroughly removes basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas for complete treatment.
  • Precancerous Lesions: Eliminates atypical moles and dysplastic nevi before they develop into malignancies.
  • Suspicious Growths: Offers both diagnostic accuracy and proactive removal of evolving or high-risk skin lesions.

Conditions

What To Expect During Your Wide Local Excision Session

  • Consultation and Consent:
    Your dermatologist or surgeon will explain the procedure, discuss why the excision is necessary, and answer any final questions. You’ll then be asked to sign a consent form.
  • Local Anesthesia:
    A local anesthetic will be injected around the treatment area to numb it. You might feel a quick pinch or sting initially, followed by numbness.
  • Surgical Excision:
    The lesion and a margin of healthy tissue around it will be carefully removed. You may sense some pressure or movement but should not experience pain.
  • Wound Closure:
    The skin will be closed with sutures using techniques aimed at minimizing scarring and encouraging proper healing.
  • Dressing and Aftercare Instructions:
    A sterile bandage will be placed over the wound. You will receive clear guidance on wound care at home, including cleaning tips and any activity limitations.
  • Follow-Up Appointment:
    A follow-up visit may be scheduled to monitor healing, remove sutures if needed, and review pathology results.

Wide Local Excision FAQs:

Removing a margin of healthy tissue helps ensure no cancerous or abnormal cells are left behind, reducing the risk of recurrence.

Yes, a scar is likely, but it’s minimized through careful suturing and aftercare. Over time, most scars fade and become less noticeable.

 Most patients heal within 1–3 weeks, depending on the size and location of the excision. Proper wound care is important for optimal healing.

Wide Local Excision | Skin Cancer Removal | Vancouver, BC

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Take the first step toward achieving healthy, radiant, and flawless skin. Contact Rejuvenation Medical Aesthetics today to schedule your personalized consultation and explore the advanced treatments tailored to your unique needs.