One of the most common types of general surgeries are for skin and soft tissue conditions. This type of surgery is elective, meaning that is planned and can be cosmetic or non-cosmetic. These procedures are often done to remove a lesion, lump, infection, or to relieve pain.
What are the Common Types of Soft Tissue and Skin Surgery
There are several types of conditions that can require surgery to the soft tissue or skin. The most common include:
- The removal of skin lesions
- A biopsy
- The removal of cysts or lipomas
- The draining of abscesses
These procedures can be more complex based on the severity of a specific condition such as pilonidal cysts or hidradenitis.
Hidradenitis is a chronic skin inflammation in the groin area or armpits. It presents as lumps and can be removed via surgery. A pilonidal cyst develops near the tailbone and is prone to infection.
What are the Common Skin and Soft Tissue Conditions That Require Surgery?
Soft tissue masses can be effectively treated through surgery. These masses are abnormal lumps located under the skin and can be entirely removed through surgery. Lipomas, abscesses, and cysts are the most common soft tissue conditions that be addressed by a surgeon.
Lipomas are balls of fatty tissue that develop from the surrounding fat with a spongy sensation just under the surface of the skin. An abscess forms due to the development of an infection under the skin, creating a pocket of pus that requires draining. It will be swollen, red, and sensitive to the touch at the surface. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that create a lump under the skin and can be prone to infection.
What Can be Expected During and After a Skin or Soft Tissue Surgical Procedure?
Typically these types of procedures are outpatient surgeries and are performed in an appropriate facility. A common skin or soft tissue surgery can be completed in a short amount of time without the need to stay in a hospital or clinic. Skin and soft tissue conditions tend to heal within two weeks of the surgery, but will require at least six weeks to completely heal. In order to prevent infection you should avoid soaking underwater in a tub or pool for at least four weeks.
The expert staff of doctors and nurses at Lane Surgery Group are here to provide the care you need for your skin and soft tissue procedures.
