QUICK REFERENCE
Skin cancer affects people of all demographics and skin types and is the most common form of cancer in the United States. However, skin cancer has a very high cure rate, making early detection and removal crucial to your wellbeing. Dr. Newman can assist you with skin cancer removal information as well as revision techniques if necessary.
What is Skin Cancer Removal?
Surgical excision is always the preferred method of skin cancer removal, no matter what type is present. This ensures that all affected tissue and some surrounding skin is removed. Skin cancer removal can be performed anywhere on the body where a suspected lesion is present.
Who is a Candidate for Skin Cancer Removal?
While no one is safe from skin cancer, there are certain risk factors that can increase your chances of developing it including over exposure to the sun, age, and a personal or family history of skin cancer. Almost everyone has multiple moles on the skin. While moles are usually harmless, any that change over time or display the following characteristics may warrant partial removal for testing or full removal:
- Asymmetrical with one half different from the other
- Border irregularities
- Colors like black or red or a mole that is multiple colors
- Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
- Evolution or a mole in shape, color, or size
When detected early, skin cancer removal can be completed with minimal scarring. However, when skin cancer progresses, and a large portion of the skin has to be removed, skin cancer reconstruction may be necessary. Dr. Newman can meet with you to determine if you are a candidate for reconstruction after skin cancer removal.
The Skin Cancer Removal Procedure
Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma are more common than Melanoma, but surgical excision is the treatment of choice for all skin cancers. The management of these skin cancers including reconstruction can be coordinated by your personal plastic surgeon. Many times, your skin cancer can be treated in the office in less than 30 minutes. The procedure includes a simple excision of the affected area, resulting in a linear scar. Occasionally, a flap or skin graft will need to be used when there is little laxity in the surrounding tissues, or when a large portion of tissue is removed. Because the procedure is for medical purposes, skin cancer removal can be covered by insurance.
Loved the whole experience!! Dr.Newman was excellent I’m now looking into getting more work done. – Avais M.
Downtime and Recovery
There is little downtime after skin cancer removal. Dr. Newman will instruct you to wash the area with antibacterial soap and apply ointment to the incision. Some swelling and mild discomfort can be expected after surgical removal or reconstruction. After treatment, patients should receive regular skin examinations to ensure no other cancerous spots develop.
If you suspect a lesion could be cancerous, contact your dermatologist or a reconstructive surgeon like Dr. Newman to discuss your skin cancer removal options.