Mr. Blackburn performs expert excision of skin lesions and lumps at his private clinics in Surrey and London. As a Consultant Plastic Surgeon, he brings the same precision and scar-conscious technique to minor procedures as to complex reconstruction — ensuring the best possible outcome for each patient, however small the operation.
Skin lesions and lumps are extremely common, and while many can be removed under local anaesthetic as a straightforward day case procedure, the quality of the scar — and the certainty of complete removal — depends greatly on the skill and experience of the surgeon performing it.
As a Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Mr. Blackburn applies meticulous technique to every excision: careful planning of incision orientation, precise tissue handling, and layered closure designed to minimise scarring. Wherever possible — except on the face, where non-dissolving sutures allow finer control — he uses dissolvable sutures, so that most patients require no suture removal appointment at all. Patients who have previously had lesions removed elsewhere and been unhappy with the cosmetic result frequently seek Mr. Blackburn's help.
All excised tissue is sent for histological analysis as standard, providing a definitive diagnosis and peace of mind.
Any skin lesion that is new, changing in size, shape or colour, bleeding, itching, or otherwise causing concern should be assessed promptly. Mr. Blackburn will examine the lesion carefully, and where there is any clinical suspicion of malignancy, will ensure that excision is performed with appropriate margins and that results are reviewed with urgency.
If a lesion requires specialist dermatological assessment or onward referral, Mr. Blackburn will coordinate this as part of your care.
Mr. Blackburn sees patients with a wide variety of skin lesions and subcutaneous lumps. Most procedures are performed under local anaesthetic as a day case, with no overnight stay required.
Skin lesions include a broad range of benign and potentially malignant growths on or just beneath the surface of the skin. Mr. Blackburn assesses each lesion clinically and, where removal is indicated, plans the excision carefully — taking into account the site, size, likely diagnosis and the need for clear margins.
Incision orientation is planned along natural skin tension lines to minimise the resulting scar. Closure is performed in layers, with fine sutures placed to achieve the neatest possible result. Wherever possible, dissolving sutures are used — removing the need for a suture removal appointment. On the face, non-dissolving sutures are used to allow the finest possible control over wound closure. All excised tissue is routinely sent for histological examination.
Lipomas are benign fatty lumps that develop in the layer of tissue just beneath the skin. They are very common and rarely dangerous, but can cause discomfort, restriction of movement, or significant cosmetic concern — particularly when they are large, prominent, or located on the face, neck or limbs.
Mr. Blackburn excises lipomas through a carefully planned incision, removing the fatty mass in its entirety to reduce the risk of recurrence. The incision is closed neatly in layers, and the resulting scar is typically far smaller than the original lump. Deeper or larger lipomas — including subfascial or intramuscular lipomas — can also be addressed where appropriate.
Epidermoid cysts (commonly called sebaceous cysts) are benign sacs beneath the skin surface, typically filled with keratin. They can grow slowly over time, become inflamed or infected, and are often a source of significant cosmetic or physical discomfort. Simple aspiration is rarely curative — complete surgical excision of the cyst wall is required to prevent recurrence.
Mr. Blackburn excises cysts intact wherever possible, removing the entire capsule to minimise the chance of the cyst returning. Where a cyst has previously ruptured or become infected, surgery is planned carefully to deal with the scarring and inflammation this causes.
A guide to some of the most frequently seen skin lesions and lumps — what they are and when removal is advisable.
Benign pigmented lesions that may be removed for cosmetic reasons or if they show signs of change — asymmetry, irregular border, colour variation, increasing size, or bleeding.
Common benign warty growths that appear with age. Harmless, but frequently removed when they are unsightly, itchy, or catching on clothing.
Smooth, dome-shaped lumps beneath the skin. Often grow slowly and become tender. Complete surgical excision prevents recurrence.
Soft, mobile fatty lumps in the subcutaneous tissue. Benign but can be cosmetically troublesome or uncomfortable, particularly when large.
The most common skin cancer. Slow-growing and rarely spreads, but requires complete excision. Mr. Blackburn's scar-conscious technique is particularly valuable on the face.
A skin cancer requiring prompt excision with appropriate margins. All excised tissue is sent for histological confirmation and margin assessment.
If you have a lesion or lump you would like assessed or removed, Mr. Blackburn offers straightforward consultations at his clinics in Kingston, Guildford, East Grinstead and Benenden. Self-referrals are welcome.
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