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Falls Canyon Surgical Associates

Mass Excisions: What You Need to Know

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What is a Mass Excision?

A mass excision is a surgical procedure to remove an abnormal lump or growth from the body. These masses can develop in the skin or underlying tissue and may include cysts, lipomas (fatty tumors), or other benign or, less commonly, cancerous growths. Removing a mass is often done to relieve discomfort, prevent growth or infection, or to determine if the mass is harmful.

This page will guide you through what a mass excision is, why it’s done, what to expect, and how to recover.

Why a Mass May Need to Be Removed

Masses can form for a variety of reasons and are often harmless. However, your healthcare provider may recommend removal if the mass is causing symptoms, growing, or has uncertain characteristics.

Common reasons for mass excision include:

  • Pain or discomfort from the mass
  • Rapid growth or change in size/appearance
  • Infection or drainage
  • Suspicion of cancer or need for biopsy
  • Cosmetic concerns

Common symptoms that may indicate a need for evaluation include:

  • A visible or palpable lump under the skin
  • Redness, warmth, or tenderness
  • Drainage or foul odor
  • Changes in size, shape, or color

Before the Procedure

In-Office (Minor) Mass Excision

Many mass excisions are minor procedures performed in the office under local anesthesia.

  • Evaluation/Diagnosis: Physical exam and sometimes imaging (ultrasound or CT scan)
  • Timing: Typically scheduled electively
  • Anesthesia: Local numbing medication is used
  • Duration: Usually 30–60 minutes depending on size and location

Surgical (Operating Room) Mass Excision

For larger or deeper masses, removal may be done in a surgical setting. Preparing for an elective mass excision surgery includes:

  • Initial Consultation: Where you meet with the surgeon who will be performing the surgery and discuss treatment options.
  • Pre-Op Tests: Some patients may require blood tests and an EKG before surgery. Please complete all blood tests and EKGs within 30 days of surgery, and no later than two weeks before, to allow time for any needed repeats.
  • Imaging: CT/CAT scans, ultrasounds, or an MRI may be performed to determine the best and most safe surgical approach.
  • Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements, especially blood thinners.
  • Smoking: Stop smoking before surgery to promote better healing. Some insurances may require this step in order to authorize surgery. Check with your healthcare provider if you have questions about this.
  • Prep the Night Before:
    • Use the provided antibacterial soap to wash the area the night before and morning of the surgery. This excludes hemorrhoid procedures.
    • Clean clothes and clean sheets gets you prepared for surgery.
  • Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6–8 hours before surgery.
  • Transportation: It is required that you arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure

Proper preparation helps ensure your procedure is performed safely and effectively. Please visit our Preparing for Surgery Page for more detailed instructions.

Visit our Preparing for Surgery Page

What to Expect During the Procedure

  • You will receive either local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the procedure
  • The surgeon makes an incision over the mass
  • The mass is carefully removed from surrounding tissue
  • The specimen is sent to pathology for analysis
  • The incision is closed with sutures or staples and covered with a dressing

Procedure time: Typically 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on complexity

Types of Mass Excision

1. Simple Excision

  • Used for small, superficial masses
  • Performed with a small incision directly over the lump
  • Usually done in-office under local anesthesia
  • Minimal downtime and scarring

2. Complex or Deep Excision

  • Required for larger or deeper masses
  • May involve careful dissection around nerves, vessels, or muscle
  • Typically performed in an operating room
  • May require a longer recovery period

After the Procedure

Recovery

  • Hospital stay:
    • Most patients go home the same day; however you may be kept overnight for observation.
    • Longer hospital stay may be required if there were other complications during surgery.
  • At home recovery:
    • Most patients resume light activity within a few days
    • Most patients return to work or school around 1-2 weeks after surgery
    • Depending on working conditions, lifting restrictions may be in place until fully healed at around 2-4 weeks.
    • Full recovery typically takes 2–4 weeks

In some cases a drain may be placed to help the surgical site heal. These drains will most likely be removed within 10 days of the surgery at a post-op appointment with your doctor.

What to Expect

  • Mild soreness or swelling
  • Bruising around the incision
  • A small scar that will fade over time
  • Instructions on wound care and activity restrictions

If sutures are placed, they may be removed in 7–14 days depending on location.

Contact your doctor if you experience:

  • Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
  • Increasing redness, swelling, or drainage
  • Severe or worsening pain
  • Bleeding that does not stop

Potential Risks and Complications

Mass excision is generally safe, but risks may include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Scarring
  • Recurrence of the mass
  • Damage to nearby structures (rare)

Your surgical team will take precautions to minimize risks and will discuss these with you beforehand.

Life After Mass Removal

Most patients recover quickly and return to normal activities without issue. If the mass is benign, no further treatment is usually needed. If pathology results show abnormal or cancerous cells, your provider will discuss next steps and any additional care needed.

Scar care and proper wound healing can help minimize long-term cosmetic effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will the mass come back after removal?
Most masses do not return after complete removal, but some types (like cysts) can recur.

Will I have a scar?
Yes, but it is usually small and fades over time. Scar size depends on the mass size and location.

Is the procedure painful?
Local anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. Mild soreness afterward is common.

When can I return to work?
Many patients return within a few days, depending on the location and size of the excision.

Will the mass be tested?
Yes, many excised masses are sent to pathology to confirm the diagnosis.

Do I need stitches removed?
Sometimes. Your provider will let you know if removal is needed or if dissolvable sutures are used.

Can I shower after the procedure?
Usually within 24–48 hours, but follow your provider’s specific instructions.

When can I exercise again?
Light activity can begin within a few days. Avoid strenuous activity for 1–2 weeks or as directed.

What if my incision opens?
Contact your provider promptly for evaluation and guidance.

Have Questions or Concerns?

Your care team is here to help. If you have a mass that needs evaluation or have recently undergone a mass excision, please contact us with any questions about your procedure or recovery.