Skin and Soft Tissue: Abscess, Excision of BCC/SCC
We provide minor skin and soft tissue procedures, including abscess drainage and excision of BCC and SCC. All treatments are performed by experienced clinicians with appropriate aftercare and follow-up.
Turnaround time
Results available 5 days after arrival in lab. Doctor's report sent the day after results available (if required)
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1
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Details about Skin and Soft Tissue: Abscess, Excision of BCC/SCC
What are Skin & Soft Tissue Procedures?
Skin and soft tissue procedures are minor surgical treatments carried out to diagnose or manage infections and skin cancers. Common procedures include incision and drainage of abscesses and excision of suspicious or confirmed skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
These procedures are typically performed under local anaesthetic in a clinic setting. Removed tissue is sent for histologywhere appropriate to confirm diagnosis and ensure clear margins.
Why might I need a skin or soft tissue procedure?
Skin infections and certain skin cancers often require procedural treatment rather than medication alone. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications, scarring, or disease progression.
You may need assessment or treatment if you have:
- A painful, swollen, or worsening skin abscess
- Recurrent boils or infected cysts
- A non-healing sore or ulcer
- A growing, bleeding, or crusted skin lesion
- A lesion diagnosed or suspected as BCC or SCC
- Skin changes following excessive sun exposure
Procedures we offer
Abscess – Incision & Drainage
A skin abscess is a collection of pus caused by infection. When antibiotics alone are insufficient, incision and drainage is the most effective treatment.
What it involves:
- Local anaesthetic to numb the area
- Small incision to release pus
- Thorough cleaning of the cavity
- Dressing and aftercare advice
This relieves pain, reduces infection, and promotes healing.
Excision of BCC / SCC
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are common forms of non-melanoma skin cancer. Surgical excision is the gold-standard treatment in many cases.
What it involves:
- Local anaesthetic
- Complete removal of the lesion with a safety margin
- Closure with sutures
- Tissue sent for histology
- Follow-up for wound review and results
Early excision offers excellent outcomes and minimises recurrence risk.
Benefits of clinic-based skin surgery
- Prompt treatment of infection or cancer
Reduces complications and progression. - Local anaesthetic only
No general anaesthetic required. - Histology confirmation
Ensures accurate diagnosis and margin assessment. - Experienced clinicians
Procedures performed safely and efficiently. - Minimal downtime
Most patients return to normal activity quickly. - Reduced scarring risk
Careful surgical technique and wound closure. - Clear aftercare guidance
Supports optimal healing. - Follow-up included
Results review and wound checks as needed.
Step-by-step – How the procedure works
- Clinical assessment and consent
- Local anaesthetic administered
- Abscess drainage or lesion excision performed
- Dressing applied and aftercare explained
- Histology sent (for excisions)
- Follow-up arranged if required
All procedures are carried out in clinic. Home visits are not available for surgical excisions.
Your results & recovery
After abscess drainage
- Immediate pain relief is common
- Mild swelling or discharge may occur initially
- Antibiotics may be prescribed if indicated
After BCC/SCC excision
- Histology confirms diagnosis and margins
- Sutures removed based on location
- Further treatment rarely needed if margins are clear
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
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Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
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If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.