Posted October 29, 2021 in Dermatology, Uncategorized
Overview
An osteoma is a bony growth that can occur on the skull, usually in the forehead region. They are benign and generally do not pose a health risk. Dr. Mountcastle is a double board certified plastic and general surgeon who offers osteoma removal at Mountcastle Plastic Surgery and Vein Institute
While most osteomas are not painful nor do they pose a health risk, many individuals want the bony growth removed for aesthetic purposes. Some osteomas can grow and become large, which can affect facial appearance. Surgery is required to access the osteoma and carefully remove the growth underneath the skin. Dr. Mountcastle will use his extensive skills as a plastic surgeon to remove the osteoma growth while leaving very little to no scarring behind.
Surgical Technique
The process for this procedure is as follows: Dr. Mountcastle first treats the area by injecting an adequate dose of local anesthesia and lets it sit for a couple minutes to numb the area. Once the anesthesia has set in, a small incision can be made to access the skull and growth under the skin, facial muscles and tissue. In most cases, this incision is made along or behind the hairline, hiding the scar from plain sight. Dr. Mountcastle will then remove the osteoma using specific surgical tools designed for use on bones. Once removed, the skin will reshape to the skull without any evidence of the osteoma left behind. The procedure is minimally-invasive and requires little downtime to recover after the procedure. Osteoma surgery can be performed between 15-30 minutes, depending on size, depth, and location.
Dr. Mountcastle’s general approach to surgical excisions is minimal scarring, maximum removal.
Cost Factors for Removal
Osteoma removals may be covered by insurance. The cost of an osteoma removal largely depends on the size and complexity of the procedure. Depending on specific insurance policies, Dr. Mountcastle’s billing specialist would be happy to help gather information on your coverage.
Generally, prices range between $750-$1250
Having the courage a take initiative in removing your osteoma is a great leap towards higher self-esteem and confidence, which is why we strive towards making mass removals affordable. Our billing specialist will work closely with your insurance company to cover as much of the procedure as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will osteoma removal hurt?
The procedure itself is not painful, the only discomfort you will feel is the initial needle prick when Dr. Mountcastle is injecting the numbing agent. It works so quickly you will stop feeling the needle prick after a few seconds.
How long will removing an osteoma take?
Typically you are in the office for about 30 minutes from start to finish. First Dr. Mountcastle will clean the area with a cleaning solution and then numb the area. Once the area is fully numbed Dr. Mountcastle will remove the osteoma and suture the area shut. After that, you will have a small white paper band-aid that will stay on till you come back to get your sutures removed.
Is the osteoma sent to pathology?
Unless otherwise requested by the patient, specimens are sent off to pathology to rule out any underlying conditions. Results typically come in when you come back for the suture removal if the specimen comes.
When can I shower?
Dr. Mountcastle recommends you wait 24 hours to get the area wet, he also tells patients to avoid soaking the wound in water as well as being gentle to the area when washing it.
Does removing an osteoma require stitches?
Yes, stitches keep the wound closed, reduce scarring, and reduce the risk of infection.
When will the stitches come out?
Typically for osteomas removed from the head, stiches need to be taken out 5-7 days, no longer than that.
Can I go swimming/exercise after removing an osteoma?
Dr. Mountastle asks the patient to wait until the next day to exercise and to avoid any heavy lifting as well as hard running. Swimming is a little different, he does not want patients swimming or submerging the wound in water, especially a pool/ ocean. You can return to swimming once the sutures are out and the wound is completely healed.
Will there be a scar after my osteoma removal?
Yes, there will be a scar. Whenever there is an incision made in the skin there will always be a scar. Dr. Mountcastle specializes in stitching, that is why dermatologists will usually send any excisions to a plastic surgeon. Since Dr. Mountcastle specializes in stitching, he knows exactly where to place the stitches, how to sew the wound, and what technique to use for that specific wound. Post-op care is also important, you want to make sure you are following directions to avoid any complications. He also recommends scar cream after the wound is completely healed. Anything with silicone works best, unfortunately, most over the counter are water based and do not work as well. You also want to make sure you apply SPF 30+ to the area when you are planning on being in the sun. All these things will help reduce the scarring.