Oral lesion excision
What is a oral lesion excision? Oral lesion excision is a medical procedure performed to remove abnormal growths or lesions that develop in the oral cavity, which includes the mouth and surrounding structures. These lesions can be benign or potentially cancerous. Excision is commonly recommended to diagnose, treat, or prevent complications associated with oral lesions. What are the surgical ap
What it is
Common benign lesions include fibroepithelial polyps, mucoceles, geographic tongue and lichen planus. Pre-cancerous lesions (leukoplakia, erythroplakia, oral lichen planus with dysplasia) and oral squamous cell carcinoma need timely diagnosis. Excision under local anaesthetic in clinic is reserved for accessible lesions; deeper / posterior lesions need day-case oral and maxillofacial surgery.
When this is relevant
- White patch (leukoplakia) that cannot be rubbed off, persisting >3 weeks.
- Red or speckled patch (erythroplakia / erythroleukoplakia).
- Non-healing ulcer >3 weeks duration.
- Lump, swelling or asymmetry inside the mouth.
- Persistent unexplained pain in the mouth, tongue or jaw.
How we investigate
Detailed examination including bimanual palpation, lymph node examination, white-light and adjunctive imaging where available. Incisional or excisional biopsy under local anaesthetic; CT or MRI where deeper invasion is suspected.
Options at The Vesey
- Excisional biopsy under local anaesthetic for small accessible lesions.
- Incisional biopsy for larger lesions where excision is not appropriate first-line.
- Reassurance with documented benign histology and structured re-examination interval.
- Oral and maxillofacial referral for any malignant histology or deep / complex lesion.
- Smoking and alcohol cessation support for patients with risk-factor exposure.
Is oral lesion excision painful? +
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic so you will not feel pain during excision. Some soreness and swelling for 2–5 days afterwards is normal; this is managed with standard over-the-counter analgesia.
How long do histology results take? +
Histology results from an oral biopsy typically take 7–10 working days. We will contact you with results and a written report, and arrange a follow-up if any further action is needed.
What are the signs that an oral lesion needs urgent assessment? +
Any white or red patch, non-healing ulcer, or lump in the mouth lasting more than 3 weeks needs prompt assessment. Red patches (erythroplakia) carry the highest risk of dysplasia and should not wait.
Can I eat and drink before oral lesion excision? +
Yes — as this is a local-anaesthetic procedure, no fasting is required. We recommend a light meal beforehand and avoiding very hot or hard foods for 24 hours after the procedure.
Pricing at a glance
Initial consultation £260. Oral biopsy under local from £290 all-inclusive (procedure, histology, written report). Insurance accepted: BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva, Healix.
Book an appointment
When to book
Book this fortnight for any oral lesion persisting >3 weeks. We will not "wait and see" - the diagnostic process is quick and the reassurance value is significant.
Cost and pathway
Initial consultation £260. Oral biopsy under local from £290 all-inclusive (procedure, histology, written report).
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our general surgical team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.87/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
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Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · 0121 387 3727