Excisional Skin Cancer Surgery
At Essential Dermatology, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Austin Newsome performs precise excisional surgery to remove cancerous skin lesions while prioritizing both your health and the cosmetic outcome.
Excisional surgery is a minor in-office procedure used to remove skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, certain melanomas, and atypical or high-risk lesions.
The goal is straightforward: remove the cancer along with a margin of healthy surrounding tissue to ensure complete clearance.
Your comfort and safety are top priorities. The procedure typically includes local anesthesia to numb the area, careful surgical removal of the lesion, wound closure, and pathology evaluation to confirm that the margins are clear of cancer.
In many cases, the wound is closed with stitches. In some situations, the wound may be left open to heal naturally, a process known as secondary intention healing.
Most appointments take approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the lesion, and patients are able to return home shortly afterward.
Any time the skin is cut, a scar will form. However, surgical technique plays a significant role in how a scar ultimately appears.
During excisional surgery, careful attention is given to minimizing tension on the wound and placing the closure in a way that promotes optimal healing. Over time, most scars fade considerably.
Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Delaying treatment allows some cancers to grow deeper into the skin or spread, which can make treatment more complex.
Routine skin cancer screenings and prompt removal of suspicious lesions are among the most effective ways to protect long-term skin health.
Most patients experience minimal downtime following excisional surgery. You will typically be advised to:
- Limit strenuous activity for a short period
- Minimize movement in higher-tension areas such as the chest or back
- Keep the surgical site clean and protected
- Return for suture removal if stitches are used
- Monitor the area as it heals
Infection is uncommon but can occur. Serious complications are rare.
Dr. Newsome provides clear written aftercare instructions so patients understand what to expect during the healing process.
Schedule an evaluation
Choosing a dermatologist for skin cancer treatment is an important decision. Essential Dermatology combines medical expertise with a meticulous surgical approach to provide care that is both thorough and compassionate.
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or have a concerning lesion, timely evaluation is essential. Contact Essential Dermatology today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Austin Newsome and take a proactive step toward protecting your health.
At a Glance
Dr. Austin Newsome
- Board-certified dermatologist with over eight years of experience
- Builds trusted relationships with patients to support personalized skincare
- Offers general, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology
- Learn more
