Minor Skin Surgery in Sydney and the North Shore
Minor skin surgery is a safe and effective way to remove common “lumps and bumps” such as moles, cysts, lipomas and skin tags. While most of these lesions are benign, they can sometimes cause irritation, discomfort or cosmetic concern.
Common Lumps and Bumps Treated
As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeon - FRACS), Dr Varun Harish provides care across Sydney and the North Shore. Most procedures are completed comfortably under local anaesthetic in the clinic with minimal downtime.
It’s common to notice small lumps and bumps on your skin over time. Most are harmless, but they can become uncomfortable, irritated, or cosmetically noticeable. Dr Harish commonly sees and treats these conditions to treat symptoms and improve comfort.
Some of the most common lumps and bumps treated include:
- Moles – harmless spots formed from pigment cells. They can be removed if changing, irritated, or for cosmetic reasons.
- Cysts – small sacs under the skin that can swell or become infected. Removing the cyst and its lining prevents recurrence.
- Lipomas – soft fatty lumps under the skin. They are harmless but may grow larger or cause discomfort.
- Skin tags – tiny, soft growths often found on the neck, underarms or eyelids. Many people choose to remove them for comfort or cosmetic reasons.
Mole Removal in Sydney and the North Shore
Moles (naevi) are collections of pigment-producing cells in the skin, often brown or black. Moles typically form during childhood or adolescence and may change slowly with age. Most moles are harmless, but some may evolve over time into abnormal growths that could potentially develop into skin cancer.
Mole removal is recommended if a mole exhibits changes in size, shape, or colour (the ABCDE rule). If a mole is removed surgically, it is almost always sent for pathology testing, which is crucial for determining if it is benign or potentially cancerous.
Dr Harish performs mole removal in Sydney and across the North Shore; during your consultation we’ll discuss the most suitable approach and expected scar.
If a mole shows suspicious or changing features, Dr Harish also provides skin cancer surgery for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
Cyst Removal in Sydney and the North Shore
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form beneath the skin, often derived from glands or hair follicles. While cysts are generally non-cancerous, they can become inflamed, infected, or painful, especially if they grow large.
Cyst removal is typically performed to alleviate discomfort, or address cosmetic concerns. Pathology testing is performed to confirm that the cyst is benign.
Dr Harish performs cyst removal across Sydney’s North Shore, removing both contents and lining to reduce the chance of recurrence.
Lipoma Removal in Sydney and the North Shore
Lipomas are benign fatty lumps that form under the skin, typically in the upper body, arms, or thighs. They are usually slow-growing and can range in size. Though lipomas are harmless and are not cancerous, they can become uncomfortable if they grow large or press on nerves.
Lipoma removal is generally done for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate pain. The procedure involves removing the lipoma and its surrounding ‘capsule’ to prevent recurrence. Pathology testing is carried out to ensure the lipoma is benign.
For lipoma removal in Sydney and the North Shore suburbs, complete excision of the fatty lump and capsule helps minimise recurrence and improve contour.
When to Get Your Skin Lesion Checked
While most lumps and bumps are harmless, it’s important to know when to seek medical advice. See a doctor promptly if you notice:
- A new or changing mole
- A sore that doesn’t heal or keeps bleeding
- A lesion that itches, crusts, or grows rapidly
- A dark streak under a nail
- A mole or spot that changes in size, shape, or colour
- A lesion with irregular or blurred borders
- Persistent pain, itching, or tenderness in a lesion
- A pigmented patch on the palms or soles
If you notice any of these changes, book a consultation without delay. For more detailed information, please visit our Skin Cancer Removal Surgery page.
Treatment Options and Which Method Is Right for You
The best treatment depends on the type of lesion, its location, and your goals.
Excision (also known as elliptical surgery) is preferred for suspicious moles, cysts, and lipomas. It removes the lesion in full and ensures confirmation of the diagnosis by pathology testing. This technique requires stitches and leaves a fine scar, but it provides the most reliable and predictable outcome.
Shave removal is suitable for raised lesions on the surface of the skin. It is a quick method that usually doesn’t need stitches, though the base of the lesion remains and will require time to heal. Regrowth of the lesion is likely unlike excision.
Curettage, laser or cautery are other common techniques for treating skin lesions. These options are not suitable if the lesion is suspicious, as they don’t provide a specimen for pathology. Several treatments may be required and the healing times may be long.
Dr Harish will clearly explain the pros and cons of each option, helping you choose the safest and most effective treatment for your situation. Excision (complete removal) is typically recommended as the gold standard because it provides the most complete removal, allows for pathology testing, and reduces the risk of recurrence.
Excision vs Shave/Laser: Which Method Is Best for Your Lesion?
Excision removes the entire lesion with a margin and provides a specimen for pathology, which confirms the diagnosis and guides any further care. Shave/laser/curettage methods may leave the lesion base behind and do not supply a full specimen, increasing the chance of regrowth and limiting diagnostic certainty. For non-suspicious, purely cosmetic raised lesions, less invasive methods can be considered after counselling; suspicious or symptomatic lesions are best treated by excision to enable pathology.
Learn more about our approach to skin cancer treatment, Dr Varun Harish’s training and memberships on the About page, our hospital affiliations, and how to reach us via the Contact page.
The Minor Skin Surgery Procedure
On the day of your procedure, the procedure details are discussed, and any further questions are answered. The area is marked under magnification to follow natural skin lines, and local anaesthetic is administered to keep the area completely numb. You may feel gentle pressure or movement but should not experience pain. The lesion is carefully removed, and fine, delicate sutures are used to minimise scarring. A small dressing is applied, and clear aftercare instructions are provided.
Recovery
Recovery is usually straightforward with minimal downtime. Healing times vary depending on the lesion type and location, but most patients resume normal life quickly.
Timeline of Recovery
A general guide to recovery milestones:
Recovery FAQ
When can I shower?
You can usually shower within the first few days once dressings permit. Our team will advise on wound protection during showering.
When can I return to work or study?
Most people return to work the same day or the next day. More physical jobs may require longer.
When can I drive?
You can drive once you can safely perform an emergency stop and are not taking strong pain medication.
When can I exercise?
Light walking is encouraged. Avoid strenuous activity until stitches are removed. Gradual return to sport and heavy exercise is advised over the next 2–6 weeks.
How long until scars fade?
Scars can take upwards of 12 months to mature. They may appear pink and firm initially, then soften and fade over 3–12 months. Silicone, massage and sun protection support good scar healing.
Expected Results
Minor skin surgery usually leaves a small, discreet scar positioned along natural skin lines. Pathology testing provides reassurance that the lesion has been properly diagnosed and treated. Recurrence or regrowth is generally quite uncommon.
Ready to discuss your recovery after skin lesion removal, lipoma removal, cyst removal or mole removal?
Call us or email us to book a consultation on Sydney’s North Shore.
Risks and Considerations
Minor skin surgery is generally safe. Complications are uncommon, but as with any invasive procedure there are some risks:
- Bleeding, infection or delayed healing
- Scarring or thickened scars
- Pigment changes (temporary lightening or darkening)
- Recurrence if cyst lining or lipoma capsule not fully removed
- Further treatment if pathology findings require wider margins
Concerned about risks or scarring? Speak with Dr Varun Harish (FRACS) in Sydney’s North Shore for tailored, specialist advice.
Costs, Medicare and Private Health Insurance
The cost of minor skin surgery varies depending on the size, type and location of the lesion and whether removal is in-clinic or in hospital. Medicare rebates usually apply for most skin surgery. Private health insurance does not contribute to the costs of outpatient or office-based procedures, but may help with in-hospital fees.
Referral
A GP referral is recommended to access Medicare rebates.
Pathology (Bulk Billed at Our Clinic)
Where specimens are sent for testing, pathology is bulk-billed to minimise costs.
Quotes
You will receive a clear written quote covering all fees before proceeding.
Why Choose Dr Varun Harish for Lipoma Removal, Cyst Removal or Mole Removal?
Choosing the right surgeon makes a difference. Patients across Sydney and the North Shore from Hornsby to North Sydney to Ryde choose Dr Harish for his specialist qualifications, and focus on safety and optimal outcomes. Dr Harish’s experience and credentials include:
- Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) (see About page)
- Expertise in benign lesion, cyst, lipoma and mole removal
- Care provided in accredited major Sydney hospitals on the North Shore when hospital treatment is required (see Hospitals page)
- Tailored procedures for your anatomy, lifestyle and goals
- Focus on recovery and long-term results, with open communication throughout your care
Frequently Asked Questions
Is minor skin surgery painful?
Local anaesthetic ensures comfort and can last several hours. Mild soreness afterwards is usually controlled with simple medication.
Will I have a scar?
Yes – mole removal, lipoma removal and cyst removal involve scars. Scars, however, generally fade with time and are placed in discreet locations along natural skin tension lines. Fine, layered sutures based on plastic surgery techniques are used to ensure minimal tension and harmonious closure.
How long does the procedure take?
Most procedures take 20-40 minutes depending on the size and location.
Do I need a referral?
A GP referral is recommended to be eligible for Medicare rebates, and for Dr Harish to understand your medical background to plan your treatment.
Is it covered by Medicare?
Medicare contributes partly to the cost of most skin lesion excisions.
Will private health insurance cover it?
Private health insurance does not cover outpatient procedures but may apply to hospital-based removals.
Will the lesion come back?
Recurrence is unlikely if excisional surgery is performed. Regrowth of the lesion is more common with shave and curette procedures.
Will the specimen be tested?
Yes, excised lesions as part of cyst removal, mole removal and lipoma removal are sent for pathology. All pathology testing is bulk-billed.
How much time off work will I need?
Most people return to work the same day or the next day. More physical jobs may require longer recovery.
Can you remove multiple lesions in one visit?
Yes, patients often see Dr Harish with multiple lesions on Sydney’s North Shore. Cyst removal, lipoma removal and mole removal can be performed in the setting of multiple lesions.
What if pathology shows something unexpected?
This is generally rare. If pathology reveals an unexpected diagnosis, the findings will be discussed in depth and further options for treatment explained and coordinated.
How much does mole removal, lipoma removal and cyst removal cost in Sydney?
Costs depend on the size and site of the mole, whether removal occurs in-clinic or in hospital, and the number of lesions to be treated. Mole removal, lipoma removal and cyst removal typically attract Medicare item numbers meaning that Medicare contributes to the cost of the procedure. Private health insurance does not contribute to outpatient or office-based procedures but applies to treatment in hospital. All procedures are carried out using informed financial consent with an itemised quote.
How quickly can I be seen?
We aim to offer timely appointments in Sydney’s North Shore and surrounding areas. If you’re concerned about a suspicious skin lesion, call or email us so we can prioritise your care.
Is mole, cyst, lipoma or skin tag removal right for me?
During your consultation we’ll assess your skin and discuss options for mole removal in Sydney, cyst removal on the North Shore, lipoma removal in Sydney, and skin tag removal in Sydney. We’ll recommend the safest method and explain expected recovery.
Book a Minor Skin Surgery Consultation in Sydney & North Shore
If you have a mole, cyst, lipoma, skin tag or other lump you’d like assessed or removed, book a consultation with Dr Varun Harish. Call us or email us today to arrange your appointment whereby Dr Varun Harish can discuss your concerns and plan your treatment.
Serving Sydney and the North Shore
Our minor skin surgery services — including mole, cyst, lipoma and skin tag removal — are available across Sydney and the North Shore, with many patients attending from nearby suburbs for quick, safe procedures.
Patients visit our St Leonards clinic from:
Lower North Shore
Crows Nest, North Sydney, Neutral Bay, Mosman
Central North Shore
Chatswood, Lane Cove, Ryde, Killara
Upper North Shore
Hornsby, Wahroonga, Turramurra, St Ives
Northern Beaches
Manly, Dee Why, Mona Vale
Inner West
Ashfield, Burwood, Newtown
North West
Castle Hill, Baulkham Hills
Central Coast
Gosford, Terrigal, Woy Woy
The clinic is close to Royal North Shore Hospital and easily reached from Crows Nest Metro and St Leonards Station, with parking options available nearby.
By choosing Dr Harish for minor skin surgery in Sydney, you can expect safe, precise care in a professional setting with a focus on comfort and achieving the best possible functional and cosmetic outcomes for each patient.