Vulvar Lesion Removal — In the Office, Under Local Anesthesia
The vulva — the external female genitalia — is subject to a range of benign growths and lesions that can cause discomfort, irritation, bleeding, or cosmetic concern. Most of these are entirely benign and can be removed in the office under local anesthesia: condyloma (genital warts), fibroepithelial polyps, sebaceous cysts, skin tags, and selected Bartholin gland cysts are among the most commonly removed vulvar lesions at Lapeer Women’s Health.
The procedure takes 15–30 minutes depending on lesion size and complexity. Local anesthesia numbs the area before any instruments are used — the injection itself is the most uncomfortable part. Once the area is numb, the removal is typically painless. All removed tissue is sent to pathology for histologic confirmation, which is standard regardless of how clearly benign the lesion appears clinically.
Not every vulvar growth requires removal. Dr. Andrei evaluates each lesion individually — assessing size, borders, clinical characteristics, and whether the lesion is symptomatic or growing. Small, stable, clearly benign lesions may be observed rather than removed. The decision is based on clinical judgment, pathologic risk, and the patient’s preference.
Vulvar Lesions Dr. Andrei Removes In the Office
The following lesion types are commonly removed in the office. Lesions with atypical features, significant size, or findings that raise concern for malignancy are evaluated further before treatment.
Condyloma acuminata (genital warts)
HPV-related warts on the vulvar skin — removed by excision, scissor snip, or electrosurgical ablation depending on size and number. Multiple lesions can often be treated in a single session.
Fibroepithelial polyps (skin tags)
Benign fleshy outgrowths of vulvar skin — soft, pedunculated, and often irritating with clothing or hygiene. Removed by simple scissor excision under local anesthesia.
Sebaceous and epidermal inclusion cysts
Blocked skin glands forming small, firm cysts beneath the vulvar skin surface — excised under local anesthesia when symptomatic or growing.
Bartholin gland cyst (selected cases)
A cyst of the Bartholin gland at the vaginal opening — treated by incision and drainage or marsupialization in the office when infected or significantly symptomatic.
Vulvar nevi (moles) requiring removal
Pigmented vulvar lesions with atypical features or growth — excised and sent to pathology to rule out melanoma. Any pigmented vulvar lesion that is changing warrants evaluation.
Other benign vulvar skin lesions
Hymenal remnants, vestibular papillomatosis, and other benign vulvar findings that are symptomatic or warrant histologic characterization — evaluated and treated on a case-by-case basis.
The Vulvar Lesion Removal Procedure
Vulvar lesion removal is performed in the office exam room. You are awake throughout. The procedure takes 15–30 minutes depending on what is being removed.
Lesion Assessment
Dr. Andrei examines the lesion and confirms it is appropriate for in-office removal. She explains what technique will be used — excision, snip, ablation, or incision — based on the lesion type.
Local Anesthesia
The skin around and beneath the lesion is injected with local anesthetic. The injection causes a burning sensation for 15–30 seconds. Once the area is fully numb — typically within two to three minutes — the procedure is painless.
Removal
The lesion is removed using the appropriate technique. Small lesions are snipped or shaved. Larger lesions are excised with a scalpel and closed with absorbable sutures if needed. The area is inspected and hemostasis is confirmed.
Pathology and Recovery
The removed specimen is labeled and sent to pathology. You receive wound care instructions. Most women go home and return to normal activity the same day.
Keep the area clean and dry. Gentle washing with mild soap is appropriate. Avoid soaking (tub baths, pools, hot tubs) until the site has healed. Sutures, if placed, are absorbable and do not require removal. Mild discomfort for the first one to two days is managed with ibuprofen. Call the office if you develop increasing pain, swelling, redness, or discharge from the wound site.
Questions About Vulvar Lesion Removal
Symptomatic or Changing?
Have It Evaluated and Removed.
If you have a vulvar lesion causing discomfort, irritation, or concern — or one that is growing or changing — schedule an evaluation with Dr. Andrei. In-office removal is straightforward, same-day, and all tissue goes to pathology.
Gynecologic care for women of every age
Lapeer Women’s Health — Rochester Hills
2710 S Rochester Rd, Suite 2
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Serving patients in Lapeer, Rochester Hills, and surrounding communities throughout Southeast Michigan.