Eliminate skin cancer and other lesions effectively with surgical excision at Abrams Dermatology. This procedure removes malignant tumors, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, along with benign growths like cysts and moles. Surgical excision offers a reliable solution to maintain clear, healthy skin.
Remove Unwanted Skin Lesions and Cancer Cells
Surgical excision is a procedure used to remove skin lesions, including cancerous growths like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, as well as benign conditions like cysts and moles. During the procedure, the affected area is carefully cut out, including a margin of healthy tissue, to ensure complete removal. This minimizes the risk of recurrence and promotes optimal healing. Surgical excision is typically performed under local anesthesia, and depending on the size and location of the lesion, sutures may be used for closure.
Surgical Excision Is the Ideal Treatment For:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
- Melanoma
- Actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions)
- Cysts
- Benign moles
- Skin tags
- Lipomas (fatty growths)
- Dermatofibromas (benign skin growths)
- Warts that are resistant to other treatments
How Does Surgical Excision Work?
Surgical excision involves the precise removal of a skin lesion, along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. Dr. Abrams begins by marking the treatment area and administering local anesthesia to numb the skin. Using a scalpel, he carefully excises the lesion, ensuring clear margins to minimize the risk of recurrence. The excised tissue is then sent to a lab for histopathological analysis, confirming whether the removal was complete.
During your procedure, Dr. Abrams will take great care to limit the amount of healthy skin removed, which is crucial for cosmetic results. After the lesion is removed, sutures may be placed to close the incision, depending on the size and depth of the excision. You will receive detailed aftercare instructions to promote proper healing and minimize scarring.
The Unique Benefits of Surgical Excision:
- Effective removal of cancerous and benign skin lesions
- High cure rates, especially for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma
- Clear margins ensure complete extraction, reducing the risk of recurrence
- Can be performed under local anesthesia with minimal discomfort
- Preserves surrounding healthy tissue for better cosmetic outcomes
- Provides a tissue sample for accurate diagnosis
- Suitable for lesions of various sizes and locations
- Allows for immediate closure of the incision, minimizing scarring
Surgical Excision FAQs
Is Surgical Excision Painful?
During the procedure, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring that you do not feel any pain. You may experience slight pressure or a pulling sensation, but it should not be uncomfortable. You may experience mild discomfort after the anesthesia wears off, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The duration of a surgical excision varies depending on the size and location of the lesion. Most procedures take 20 minutes to an hour. This includes time for preparing the area, performing the excision, and closing the incision with sutures if needed. Dr. Abrams will provide an estimate of the expected procedure time during your consultation.
Will I Have a Scar After the Procedure?
Yes, surgical excision usually results in a scar, as skin is being removed and stitched back together. However, Dr. Abrams is skilled at minimizing scarring and will use techniques to make the incision as discreet as possible. The scar will typically fade over time, and you will be given aftercare instructions to help it heal properly.
What Should I Expect During Recovery?
After the procedure, you may experience mild swelling, redness, and tenderness around the treated area. These symptoms usually subside within a few days. You will be advised to keep the area clean and dry, and you may need to avoid certain activities that could strain the healing skin. Sutures are often removed within 1 to 2 weeks.
How Do I Care for the Incision After Surgery?
Proper aftercare is essential for healing and reducing the risk of infection. You will be instructed to gently clean the area with soap and water, apply any prescribed ointments, and cover it with a bandage. Avoid exposing the area to direct sunlight, as UV rays can darken the scar. Dr. Abrams will provide detailed instructions tailored to your specific case.
Schedule Your Consultation
Abrams Dermatology is a trusted provider of surgical excision for effectively removing skin cancer in Sarasota. Dr. Bradley J. Abrams, a board-certified dermatologist and expert in skin cancer treatment, ensures precise removal to minimize the risk of recurrence. With over 20 years of experience, he prioritizes your health and cosmetic outcomes, minimizing the visibility of post-surgical scarring where possible. If you have concerns about a suspicious lesion, schedule a consultation with Dr. Abrams to discuss your options.
