A skin lesion is a part of the skin that has an abnormal growth or appearance compared to the skin around it. There are two categories of skin lesions: primary and secondary.
Primary skin lesions happen at birth or appear over a lifetime. A birthmark is an example of a primary skin lesion. Secondary skin lesions evolve from primary lesions or develop based on your activities. Melanoma resulting from sun exposure would be an example of a secondary skin lesion.
At Willamette Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery, we can remove several types of skin lesions.
Causes of Skin Lesions
Facial skin cancer is the result of mutations in the skin cells that cause them to grow out of control. The biggest risk factor for skin cancer is ultraviolet radiation from sunlight and tanning beds. Those with fair skin, a history of sunburns and excessive sun exposure, moles, or a family history of skin cancer may be more prone to developing it.
Symptoms of Skin Lesions
Skin lesions can be cancerous and non-cancerous. Reasons to remove a non-cancerous mole, lump or bump can include the following:
- Consistent irritation.
- Itchiness, bleeding or pain.
- Continued growth in the area.
Meanwhile, facial skin cancer is divided into three different types:
- Basal cell carcinomas affect the face, ears, and scalp, and are characterized by a pearly, waxy bump; a flat, flesh-colored lesion; or a brown scar-like lesion.
- Squamous cell carcinomas are most typically found on the face, lips, and ears. Signs include a firm, reddish nodule, and a flat lesion with a scaly or crusted surface.
- Melanomas can occur anywhere, but are commonly found on the head or neck. Symptoms of facial melanoma include a mole that changes in size or color, or bleeds; a brownish spot with dark speckles; a lesion with an irregular border and parts that appears red, blue, blue-black, or white; and dark lesions on the mucous membranes lining the nose and mouth.
There are a few other types of facial skin cancers that are less common. These may include red or purple patches on the skin or mucous membranes; firm, shiny nodules in the hair follicles or just beneath the skin; or hard, painless nodules on the eyelids or other parts of the face.
Treatment for Skin Lesions
Treatment for facial skin cancer or skin lesions depends on the type, size and location of the lesion, as well as your overall health.
At Willamette Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery provide effective, aesthetically pleasing treatment options. We don’t rely on surface treatments, but instead get to the root of the cause by performing safe excisions that ensure lasting cosmetic benefits. Our experts also send tissue samples out to a pathologist to make sure that a growth is not cancerous and will partner with your dermatologist for Mohs surgery and the treatment of cancerous growths.
To learn more about available options for skin lesion treatment or schedule an appointment, contact the experts at Willamette Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery today.
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