Excision of Vaginal and Vulval Lesions
Excision of vaginal or vulval lesions is a procedure used to remove abnormal tissue, such as a lump, cyst or skin change, from the vagina or vulva (the external genital area). Many lesions are harmless, but removal can help address symptoms and allows the tissue to be examined in a laboratory to establish a diagnosis.
When the Procedure May Be Recommended
Common examples of vaginal or vulval lesions include:
Vaginal cysts – fluid-filled sacs such as inclusion cysts or Gartner’s duct cysts
Vulval cysts – including sebaceous or epidermal cysts
Bartholin’s gland cysts – swelling near the vaginal opening
Polyps – benign growths arising from mucosal tissue
Genital warts (condyloma) – caused by human papillomavirus (HPV)
Skin lesions or abnormal tissue changes that require assessment
While most lesions are non-cancerous, the only way to confirm the exact diagnosis is through biopsy and histological examination.
Why Remove a Vaginal or Vulval Lesion?
Removal may be recommended when a vaginal or vulval lesion is causing symptoms such as:
Pain or irritation
Bleeding or discharge
Discomfort during intercourse
Awareness of a lump
Excision may also be advised when a definitive diagnosis is needed. The removed tissue can be examined in a laboratory to confirm the cause and check for precancerous or cancerous changes.
What to Expect
The operation
The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia or sedation to ensure comfort.
Mr Flint carefully removes the lesion along with a small margin of surrounding tissue to ensure complete excision. Fine dissolvable stitches are then used to close the area where necessary.
The removed tissue is sent for histopathological examination to confirm the diagnosis.
Recovery
Most procedures are performed as a day-case, meaning patients usually return home the same day.
Recovery is generally quick and uncomplicated. You may experience:
Mild soreness for a few days
Light spotting or discharge
Temporary swelling or tenderness
Patients are typically advised to:
Avoid intercourse, tampons, and swimming for 4–6 weeks
Keep the area clean and dry
Follow the post-operative instructions provided
Most women return to normal daily activities within a few days.
Results
Laboratory results are usually available within 7–14 days. A follow-up consultation allows Mr Flint to:
Review the pathology results
Confirm the diagnosis
Discuss whether further treatment is required
In most cases, the excision provides both diagnosis and definitive treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all lesions cancerous?
No. Many vaginal and vulval lesions are benign (non-cancerous). Removal may be recommended to relieve symptoms or investigate an unusual or persistent change. The tissue is examined in a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis and check whether further treatment is needed.
Will the procedure be painful?
Anaesthetic is used to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Smaller lesions may be removed under local anaesthetic, while more extensive procedures may require a different approach, including general anaesthetic. Some soreness afterwards is expected, and you will receive advice on pain relief.
Will I need stitches, and will there be a scar?
Small stitches may be used to close the wound and are often dissolvable. A scar may remain, with its size and appearance depending on the location of the lesion and how much tissue is removed. Your surgeon will discuss any possible changes in appearance or sensation before treatment.
You should arrange an assessment if you notice:
A lump, cyst, or growth in the vulval or vaginal area
Persistent itching, pain, or irritation
Bleeding or discharge that is unusual
Pain during intercourse
Changes in skin colour or texture
Mr Richard Flint provides expert diagnosis and treatment for women with vaginal and vulval lesions using minimally invasive surgical excision and biopsy.