Minor Surgery and Skin Procedures in Novi, MI
PrimeCare of Novi performs a range of minor surgical and skin procedures right here in our office — no referral to a dermatologist or surgeon needed for most common conditions. Same-day or next-day appointments often available.
| ✓ Skin biopsies — shave, punch, and excisional |
| ✓ Abscess incision and drainage |
| ✓ Mole removal and lesion excision |
| ✓ Cryotherapy for warts and skin lesions |
| ✓ Hyfrecator treatment for seborrhea and skin tags |
| Request an appointment | 📞 (248) 426-7200 |
Serving Novi, West Bloomfield, Northville, Farmington Hills and all of Oakland County
PROCEDURES WE OFFER
In-office skin and minor surgical procedures
Most of these procedures are performed under local anesthetic, take less than 30 minutes, and require no hospital visit. You can usually return to normal activities the same day or the next day.
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🔬 Skin Biopsy A skin biopsy removes a small sample of tissue from a suspicious or changing lesion and sends it to pathology for analysis. It is the only definitive way to determine whether a skin lesion is benign or malignant. We perform three types depending on the lesion: →
Shave biopsy — superficial lesions, quick and minimal scarring
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Punch biopsy — deeper lesions using a circular cutting tool
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Excisional biopsy — complete removal of the lesion with margins
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🩹 Abscess Incision and Drainage A skin abscess is a painful, pus-filled pocket that forms under the skin — typically from a bacterial infection. Antibiotics alone are often not sufficient. Incision and drainage (I&D) is the definitive treatment. The area is numbed with local anesthetic, the abscess is opened, drained, and cleaned. Most patients experience immediate relief of pain and pressure. The procedure typically takes 15 to 20 minutes and heals well without stitches in most cases. |
⚕️ Mole Removal Moles can be removed for cosmetic reasons, because they are irritated by clothing or shaving, or because they have features that warrant pathological evaluation. We assess every mole before removal and send the tissue to pathology when clinically indicated. Removal is performed under local anesthetic using either shave excision or elliptical excision depending on the depth and location. Most patients have minimal downtime and the wound heals cleanly with proper aftercare. |
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❄️ Cryotherapy Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal skin tissue. It is quick, effective, and requires no incision or anesthetic for most applications. Commonly used for: →Common and plantar warts
→Actinic keratoses (pre-cancerous spots)
→Seborrheic keratoses
→Skin tags
→Molluscum contagiosum
The treated area blisters, crusts, and heals over 1 to 2 weeks. Multiple sessions may be required for larger or more resistant lesions. |
⚡ Hyfrecator — Electrosurgery for Seborrhea and Skin Tags A hyfrecator is an electrosurgical device that uses high-frequency electrical current to destroy or remove skin lesions with precision. It is particularly effective for seborrheic keratoses — the waxy, stuck-on-looking growths that commonly appear with age — as well as skin tags, small benign lesions, and superficial vascular lesions. The procedure is quick, well-tolerated with topical or local anesthetic, and leaves minimal scarring in most cases. The treated area forms a small scab that heals over 1 to 2 weeks. Commonly used for: →Seborrheic keratoses
→Skin tags
→Small benign growths and lesions
→Superficial vascular lesions
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COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions about minor surgery at PrimeCare of Novi
Do I need a referral to have a mole removed or a biopsy done?
No. As your primary care physician we can evaluate, biopsy, and remove most common skin lesions right here in our office without a dermatology referral. If a lesion requires more complex management — such as Mohs surgery for certain skin cancers — we will coordinate the appropriate referral. For most routine procedures, you can be seen and treated in the same appointment.
Are these procedures painful?
Most procedures are performed under local anesthetic and are well-tolerated. The injection of local anesthetic is typically the most uncomfortable part — after that, patients feel pressure but minimal pain. Cryotherapy causes a cold burning sensation that resolves quickly. Hyfrecator treatments may cause a brief stinging sensation. Your physician will discuss what to expect before each procedure.
How long does recovery take after a skin biopsy or mole removal?
Most patients return to normal activities the same day or the next day. The wound site requires basic care — keeping it clean, dry, and covered. Shave biopsies and small excisions typically heal within 1 to 2 weeks. Larger excisions with sutures may take 2 to 3 weeks for the wound to close fully. Your physician will give you specific aftercare instructions at the time of your procedure.
When will I get biopsy results?
Skin biopsy samples are sent to an outside pathology lab. Results typically return within 5 to 10 business days. Your physician or a member of our team will contact you with results and discuss next steps based on the pathology report.
Is my insurance likely to cover these procedures?
Medically necessary procedures such as biopsies, abscess drainage, and removal of lesions with concerning features are typically covered by most major insurance plans. Cosmetic removals — such as removal of a mole that is not concerning but that you dislike aesthetically — may not be covered. Call our office at (248) 426-7200 and we can help you understand your coverage before your appointment.
How do I know if a skin lesion needs to be evaluated?
Use the ABCDEs of melanoma as a guide: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6mm, and Evolution — any change in size, shape, or color over time. If a mole or lesion meets any of these criteria, bleeds without injury, itches persistently, or simply concerns you, schedule an evaluation. When in doubt, have it looked at.
TWO WAYS TO EXPERIENCE CARE
Choose the model that works for you
Minor surgical procedures are available to all of our patients. The difference between our two care models is in how much time, availability, and ongoing monitoring surrounds that care.
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TRADITIONAL CARE Standard primary careSchedule an appointment, have your skin evaluated, and if a procedure is indicated we can often perform it the same visit or schedule it shortly after. Your insurance covers medically necessary procedures. A straightforward, efficient path to getting things taken care of. ✓
Evaluation and procedure often same visit
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Medically necessary procedures covered by insurance
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No dermatology referral needed for most lesions
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PERSONALIZED CARE Concierge medicineEverything in standard care — plus same-day or next-day appointments when something needs to be looked at promptly, extended visits to discuss biopsy results thoroughly, and a physician who monitors your skin and lesion history over time as part of your ongoing relationship. ✓
Same-day evaluation when a lesion concerns you
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Extended time to review biopsy results and discuss next steps
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Skin and lesion history tracked as part of your ongoing care
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Your insurance still covers applicable services
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From the cost of a coffee a day
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SCHEDULE YOUR PROCEDURE
Have a skin concern? Get it looked at.
Most procedures can be performed the same visit as your evaluation. Call us or request an appointment online — same-week appointments often available.
| Request an appointment | 📞 (248) 426-7200 |
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📍 39555 W. Ten Mile Rd, Suite 302
Novi, MI 48375
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Mon–Fri 8AM–5PM
Same-week appointments often available
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No dermatology referral needed
for most common skin procedures
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