Surgical Dermatology

Before Surgery

Prior to most dermatologic surgery, a biopsy of the lesion is performed. Three methods used are:

• Shave biopsy
• Excision
• Curettage or scraping

Once the tissue specimen is available, the specimen is submitted to a laboratory for examination (histology).

Surgical Dermatology

Dermatologic surgery is always performed in our medical office. Local anesthesia is used. Minimal to no discomfort will be experienced during and after the procedure.

There are various methods of performing dermatologic surgery, including:

• Surgical excision followed by wound closure using one of the following techniques:
  • Simple or intermediate closure with sutures
  • Grafts or flaps if the wound is more extensive
• Curettage and electrodessication
  • A sharp instrument called a curette is used to scrape away the benign or malignant tissue
  • An electrosurgical unit is used to stop the bleeding and burn away additional tissue
  • Wound healing is by secondary intention, meaning it is not closed with sutures
• Cryosurgery
  • Liquid nitrogen is sprayed on the lesion, freezing and destroying the tissue. Healing will occur with minimal scarring.

The procedures described above are used for the following skin conditions:

• Skin cancers
• Benign lesions such as cysts, moles, actinic keratosis, seborrheic keratosis, and warts

Post-Treatment Instructions

We are with you every step of the way. In the event you find that you have lost or did not receive the written instructions we provide to you as a patient, these are provided for you below as an easy way for you to know how we want you to care for your treated site.

Please click here to find specific after-care instructions.

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