If you have been diagnosed with a cancerous mole or another type of superficial skin cancer, there are various treatments available for quick removal. Treatment varies case by case due to the treatment area and severity.
What is Skin Cancer Removal?
Skin cancer removal is performed when a skin growth or mark shows signs of abnormality associated with skin cancer. There are a few ways that it can be done based on the depth and severity of the formation. There are a few methods that can be used to prevent cancer cells from spreading. Some cases call for a few different methods of removal and can be done on an outpatient basis with little to no downtime, depending on the area.
Benefits of Skin Cancer Removal
The primary benefit of skin cancer removal is eliminating cancerous cells before they have the opportunity to grow deeper or spread to surrounding tissue. Early and complete removal can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. When performed by an experienced surgeon, skin cancer removal is both precise and efficient, helping achieve effective treatment results with minimal scarring and downtime.
Who Is a Candidate for Skin Cancer Removal?
Individuals who have been diagnosed with a cancerous mole, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or other superficial skin cancers are typically candidates for skin cancer removal. Patients who notice changes in the size, color, shape, or texture of a skin lesion may also be evaluated for removal. Candidacy is determined based on the type of skin cancer, its depth, location, and overall health considerations.
How Does Skin Cancer Removal Work?
Excisional Removal
This simple procedure can be done for most types of skin cancer. First, Dr. Golosow will numb the affected area of the skin. Once numbed, the cancerous tissue is separated from the surrounding skin with a scalpel, along with a small area of healthy skin around it. This is done to ensure that all cancerous cells are removed. This is the most common way to remove skin cancer because it is the quickest and has the lowest risk of scarring.
Excision with Frozen Sections
Frozen Section skin cancer removal is usually reserved for any large or difficult-to-treat areas where skin cancer develops. This method is also used to treat recurring cancer in areas where it’s vital to preserve as much of the surrounding skin as possible. Dr. Golosow will “shave” the growth into thin layers with a scalpel, and then each layer will be examined under a microscope by a pathologist for cancerous cells. This is continued until no cancerous cells remain in the removed tissue.
Treatment Areas for Skin Cancer Removal
Skin cancer can develop on nearly any area of the body, though it most commonly appears on areas frequently exposed to the sun. Common treatment areas include the face, scalp, ears, neck, chest, arms, hands, legs, and back. Special care is taken when treating visible or delicate areas to preserve natural contours and minimize scarring.
Before Your Skin Cancer Removal Treatment
Prior to your skin cancer removal procedure, you will meet with Dr. Golosow for a thorough evaluation of the affected area. This consultation may include reviewing biopsy results, discussing the recommended removal method, and outlining what to expect before, during, and after treatment. Patients may be advised to avoid certain medications or sun exposure leading up to the procedure to support optimal healing.
Recovery After Skin Cancer Removal Treatment
After the removal procedure, you will need to care for the excision site just like you would a wound. Depending on the severity of the removal, you may need to have stitches removed or some sort of liquid adhesive. During the healing process, it will be important to keep the area clean and dry and out of sun exposure.
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer and are in need of an excision, contact Golosow Plastic Surgery today to learn more about your options for skin cancer removal.
