Surgical Excision in Liverpool, NY

One of the most recognized melanoma skin cancer treatments is surgical excision. Using this procedure, Dr. Joseph P. Housel will cut away the melanoma or malignant growth together with the bordering tissue, which may appear to be healthy. The excised (or removed) skin tissue will be sent to a pathologist for additional testing to ascertain whether or not the remaining area is cancer-free. In the event the tissue turns out to be cancerous, then a second procedure would be required to remove all remaining cancer. Housel Dermatology, P.C. and Dr. Housel consult with our Liverpool, NY and Greater Syracuse area patients on a regular basis to determine whether surgical excision is the right treatment choice for their condition.

An ideal candidate for surgical excision may have an unusual cancerous or non-cancerous lesion on the body. This process is thought to be easier and quicker than other surgical removal methods but is not as cosmetically inconspicuous, meaning you will likely have a scar. This technique is occasionally used to allow for extensive observation of the skin cancer sample so patients in need of further diagnostic testing will also be ideal candidates for surgical excision.

As surgical excision is an invasive process, prior to the surgery, Dr. Housel will thoroughly clean the treatment area and our providers will administer the local anesthetic. The cancer will then be removed with a scalpel and horizontal cuts throughout the lesion and surrounding tissue. An electrode may be utilized to perform a feathering process, which can smooth the borders circling the wound. This helps to get rid of extra cells from the lesion and minimizes the probability of scarring.

Small excisions will be sewn closed while bigger excisions may require a skin graft to close up the wound. A solution will be implemented to the treated area to stop any bleeding, as well as an antibiotic will be prescribed to accelerate the healing time. In addition, a sterile bandage will be placed over the wound to shield it and prevent it from getting infected.

The duration of your downtime and recovery could vary, depending upon the location and severity of the particular excision, in addition to whether skin grafts were needed to complete your treatment. After your surgery, you could experience a burning feeling or general discomfort in the region where the skin cancer was removed. For the first few days following the procedure, you are advised to use an over-the-counter medicine, like acetaminophen, to relieve pain. You can also expect some scarring that will be red initially but will lighten over time. Prescription topical ointments may be used to help lighten the scar. In order to protect the healing wound, a bandage should be placed on the treatment area while you are exposed to the sun.

Anytime you see a skin lesion that appears strange, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Call us at Housel Dermatology, P.C. today, and let's talk about your skin health and whether a skin excision procedure is right for you.