A cosmetic growth is any lesion on the skin that does not require removal for medical or cancer reasons, but is removed to improve comfort or appearance. These growths are typically benign on clinical evaluation, and their management is elective rather than medically urgent.

Common examples of cosmetic growths include:

• Certain cysts – such as small, stable epidermal inclusion cysts that are not inflamed or infected
• Moles (benign nevi) – when they have uniform color, regular borders, and stable size, but are cosmetically unwanted or located in a bothersome area
• Benign lipomas – soft, mobile fatty nodules beneath the skin that are non-cancerous but may be visible or palpable
• Other benign lesions – such as skin tags, seborrheic keratoses, and other non-suspicious bumps or raised areas

Before any cosmetic removal, board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon Dr. Thomas Knackstedt and the aesthetic team at Peak Skin Center evaluates each lesion to confirm that it appears benign. If a lesion has features suggestive of skin cancer or atypia, the recommendation may shift to a medically necessary biopsy or excision rather than a purely cosmetic procedure. This distinction helps ensure that cosmetic treatment does not delay appropriate diagnosis and care when there is concern for malignancy.

At Peak Skin Center in Fuquay-Varina, techniques are chosen based on the type, size, depth, and location of the growth, as well as the patient’s skin type and cosmetic goals. The overarching aim is to remove the lesion effectively while minimizing scarring and disruption of normal skin.

Narrow Cosmetic Excision with Sutures

Many raised or deeper benign growths, including some moles, cysts, and lipomas, are best treated with a narrow cosmetic excision. In this technique:

1. Local anesthetic is administered to ensure comfort.
2. The growth is carefully outlined and removed with a slender, precise elliptical incision tailored to natural skin lines.
3. The wound edges are brought together with fine sutures in layered closure when appropriate.

This approach allows for complete removal of the lesion and controlled placement of the resulting scar, often aligning it with relaxed skin tension lines or natural creases to help it blend more subtly over time. In many cases, tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory to confirm the benign nature of the growth.

Removal of Superficial Growths Without Sutures

Some thinner or more superficial cosmetic lesions do not require stitches. Depending on the lesion type and location, options may include:

• Shave removal – gently removing the raised portion at or slightly below the skin surface
• Curettage or light electrosurgical techniques – carefully smoothing or flattening certain benign lesions
• Other office-based methods selected according to the lesion’s characteristics

These procedures are designed to minimize downtime and are generally associated with a small superficial wound that heals with appropriate local care. The choice between excision with sutures and non-sutured methods is guided by the balance between complete removal, recurrence risk, and cosmetic outcome.

Recovery after cosmetic removal of growths is typically straightforward and can often be easily incorporated into routine daily activities.

• After narrow cosmetic excision with sutures, there is usually mild tenderness and a small linear incision. Patients are commonly advised to keep the area clean, apply any recommended ointment, and protect it with a dressing as directed. Sutures are removed at a follow-up visit or are allowed to dissolve, depending on the type used and the location on the body. The incision line evolves over time, often fading and softening over several months.
• After superficial procedures without sutures, a shallow wound or scab is expected during the initial healing phase. Gentle cleansing, avoidance of picking, and sun protection help support optimal cosmetic results.

In all cases, consistent sun protection is important to reduce the risk of pigment changes along the healing site. Final cosmetic outcomes depend on factors such as lesion size and depth, individual healing tendencies, and adherence to aftercare instructions. Most patients experience a noticeable improvement in contour and appearance once healing is complete, with scars that are generally small and continue to refine over time.