About this service
Excision of a tongue lesion is a minor day-theatre procedure available in Windhoek to remove a growth or lesion on the tongue, either for treatment or to confirm a diagnosis through laboratory examination. Lesions on the tongue can appear as a lump, ulcer or discoloured patch, and any that persist for more than a couple of weeks should be assessed by a doctor. Removing the lesion allows the tissue to be examined closely so appropriate care can follow.
At Eastgate Clinic this procedure is performed in our on-site day theatre, with consultation and follow-up managed by your GP in our rooms. Your doctor will explain what the procedure involves for your lesion.
What to expect
- Your doctor looks at the tongue lesion in our rooms and asks how long it has been there and whether it has changed
- The growth is excised in our on-site day theatre under anaesthesia, with dissolving stitches where needed
- Some soreness and difficulty eating certain foods while healing is common
- Good oral hygiene during recovery, as advised by your doctor
- The tissue goes to the laboratory, and your doctor discusses the result and any further care at follow-up
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A lump, ulcer or patch on the tongue that hasn't healed
- A tongue lesion that has changed in size or appearance
- Persistent discomfort on the tongue needing investigation
- A lesion identified by your dentist or doctor as needing removal
- Ongoing tongue symptoms not settling on their own
Frequently asked questions
When should a lump or ulcer on the tongue be removed?
Any lump, ulcer or patch on the tongue that has not healed in about two weeks should be checked. Your doctor may recommend removing it so the tissue can be examined and the right treatment planned.
Does removing a tongue lesion affect speech or taste?
Small excisions rarely have any lasting effect on speech or taste. The tongue may feel sore and slightly awkward for a few days, and this settles as the area heals.
How is a tongue lesion excision different from a tongue biopsy?
A biopsy samples part of a lesion for testing, while an excision removes the whole growth. If the lesion is small, removing it completely can serve as both treatment and diagnosis in one procedure.
For referring doctors
This procedure can be booked in Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your excision of tongue lesion?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.