SURGICAL DERMATOLOGY
Surgical dermatology is not as common as either medical or cosmetic dermatology. This type of dermatology specializes in the removal and excision of tumors, moles and cancers. It can also include procedures that require anesthesia or incisions. In recent years, surgical advancements in dermatology have made procedures much less invasive and leave patients with much faster recoveries, post-surgery.
Many conditions in dermatology are best treated with surgical procedures. These include skin cancers (Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Melanoma, Dysplastic Nevi/Moles) and benign conditions (Lipomas, Cysts, Etc)
Having surgery can be a frightening experience, but we promise to make your visit as low-stress as possible. We use precise injection techniques to minimize pain.
Nearly all surgeries performed by a dermatologist can be performed in the office and do not require general anesthesia. If, however, there are conditions that will require more extensive surgery, we will coordinate your care with other physicians including plastic surgeons, otolaryngologists, and podiatrists.
WHAT TO EXPECT
On your day of surgery, please attempt to arrive 10-20 minutes before your appointment time in order to make sure you are calm and ready for your procedure. Surgical procedures are generally done in less than 1 hour, but feel free to bring a snack, book, cell phone, etc to make yourself feel at ease.
No general anesthetic is used, so it is OK to eat and drink on the day of surgery.
You are able to walk and drive after most surgeries, but if you have any concerns, please be safe and bring a driver.
DO NOT STOP any blood-thinning medication prior to your procedure.
If you have allergies to antibiotics, numbing medications, latex, or anything else you think you may come into contact with, please let the office know prior to your procedure.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please let us know prior to your procedure.
If you have recently had a joint replacement, prosthetic heart valve, or have a history of infections after surgery, please let us know.
