Post-Surgery Concerns: Pain, Healing Time, and Biopsy

Postoperative issues?

I had a mole removed from my back today.
The procedure involved surgical excision, where the doctor first administered local anesthesia, then excised the mole, and finally sutured the area.

1.
Why do I feel a burning sensation after the procedure?
2.
How long will it take to heal?
3.
The doctor mentioned a biopsy; what is it checking for?

Cheng Cheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/19

Dr. Lu Shangbin reply Surgery

In principle, if a physician suspects malignant changes (cancer) in a skin tumor, they will perform a surgical excision and send the removed tissue for pathological examination.
If the results indicate malignancy, the physician will take further action.
After the surgery, there may be some discomfort at the wound site, but it typically improves within 2 to 3 days.
Generally, if there is no inflammation, the stitches can be removed in about 7 to 14 days, depending on factors such as age, overall health, wound size, and the method of suturing.

Reply Date: 2006/07/19

More Info

After undergoing a surgical procedure to remove a mole from your back, it's completely normal to have concerns about the healing process and any sensations you may experience post-surgery. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Why do I feel a burning sensation after the surgery?
The burning sensation you are experiencing is a common post-operative symptom. This can be attributed to several factors. First, the surgical site is likely inflamed as part of the body's natural healing response. When the skin is cut, the nerve endings in the area can become irritated, leading to sensations such as burning, tingling, or even itching. Additionally, the local anesthetic used during the procedure can cause temporary sensations as it wears off. It's important to monitor this sensation; if it worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms like increased redness, swelling, or discharge, you should contact your healthcare provider.

2. How long will it take to heal?
Healing time can vary depending on several factors, including the size and depth of the incision, your overall health, and how well you follow post-operative care instructions. Generally, superficial wounds like those from mole excisions can take about 1 to 2 weeks to heal significantly. However, complete healing, including the resolution of any residual discomfort, may take several weeks. It's essential to keep the area clean and dry, follow any specific care instructions provided by your doctor, and avoid picking at the scab or incision site to promote optimal healing.

3. What is the purpose of the biopsy?
A biopsy is performed to examine the tissue that was removed during the mole excision. The primary purpose is to determine whether the mole is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The pathologist will analyze the cells under a microscope to look for any abnormal characteristics. This is a crucial step in ensuring that any potential skin cancer is detected early and treated appropriately. Depending on the results, your doctor will discuss the next steps with you, which may include further treatment or monitoring.

In summary, while the burning sensation and healing time can be concerning, they are typically part of the normal recovery process. The biopsy is a vital step in ensuring your health and peace of mind regarding the mole that was removed. If you have any further questions or if your symptoms change or worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. They are there to support you through your recovery and address any concerns you may have.

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