Surgical Dermatological Procedures:

What You Need to Know

Surgical dermatology plays a crucial role in treating various skin conditions, from removing benign growths to addressing skin cancer. Dermatologic surgery is performed by board-certified dermatologists with specialized training to ensure optimal results with minimal scarring. Below are some of the most common procedures:

Excisional Surgery

Excisional surgery is commonly used to remove moles, cysts, lipomas, and skin cancer lesions. The process involves:

  • Numbing the area with local anesthesia

  • Surgically cutting out the lesion along with a margin of healthy skin

  • Closing the wound with sutures for optimal healing

This method is highly effective and is often used when a definitive diagnosis or complete removal of abnormal tissue is needed.

Electrosurgery and Curettage

This technique is frequently used for precancerous lesions, small skin cancers, and warts. The procedure involves:

  • Scraping away the abnormal skin cells with a curette (a small, sharp instrument)

  • Using an electric current to cauterize and destroy any remaining cells

  • Allowing the area to heal naturally over time

Cryosurgery (Cryotherapy)

Cryosurgery is a minimally invasive treatment that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal skin growths, including:

  • Actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions)

  • Warts

  • Small superficial skin cancers

The treated area typically blisters and peels away, revealing new, healthy skin underneath.

Skin Biopsies

A skin biopsy is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate suspicious moles, rashes, or lesions. It involves removing a small sample of skin for laboratory analysis to determine if further treatment is necessary.

Scar Revision and Reconstructive Surgery

For patients with acne scars, surgical scars, or post-skin cancer excisions, dermatologic surgeons offer various techniques, including:

  • Laser resurfacing

  • Microneedling

  • Excisional scar revision

Mohs Micrographic Surgery - Consultation and Counseling

Mohs surgery is a highly precise technique used primarily for treating skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). It involves:

  • Removing thin layers of skin one at a time

  • Examining each layer under a microscope to check for cancer cells

  • Preserving as much healthy tissue as possible

This procedure offers the highest cure rate while minimizing scarring, making it ideal for facial and high-risk areas.

Choosing the Right Procedure for Your Needs

If you have a concerning skin lesion, growth, or cosmetic concern, consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is the first step. They will evaluate your condition and recommend the most effective surgical or minimally invasive approach for your unique skin needs.