What are the risks of giant nevi removal?

The decision to have a giant congenital nevus removed should be made as part of an informed conversation with an experienced plastic surgeon. Your plastic surgeon will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedures you or your child will undergo and any risks or potential complications.

The possible risks of giant nevi removal surgery include, but are not limited to:

• Anesthesia risks
• Asymmetry
• Bleeding
• Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
• Fluid accumulation (seroma)
• Hematoma
• Infection
• Numbness or other changes in skin sensation
• Persistent pain
• Poor healing of incisions
• Possibility of revisional surgery
• Recurrent or incompletely excised lesion
• Skin discoloration and/or prolonged swelling
• Skin loss
• Suboptimal aesthetic result
• Unfavorable scarring

These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It's important that you address all your questions directly with your plastic surgeon.