Skin Cancer Surgery

Skin cancer surgery refers to surgical procedures to remove skin cancer. There are different forms, such as an excision or Mohs surgery, but they all generally aim to completely remove the cancerous growth in full.

Choosing the careful hand of a plastic surgeon like Dr. Derrick offers unique benefits. Plastic surgeons have extensive experience with tissue manipulation and reconstruction, which allows for a clean closure following surgery.

Before any skin cancer surgery recommendations may be made, it is important to reach an accurate diagnosis. Dr. Derrick utilizes Castle Bioscience DecisionDx for genetic testing when making a melanoma diagnosis. This unique test can provide important insight regarding the risks associated with a person’s specific health experiences.

If the melanoma poses a risk, Dr. Derrick may perform skin cancer surgery. While the specifics of surgery will vary based on the unique melanoma, surgical removal involves the complete removal of the cancerous growth. Results will vary for each procedure. It is important to give yourself adequate time to heal, and to take particular care of your skin — especially the treatment area and when you are in direct sunlight. Dr. Derrick can provide you with all of the specific instructions you need to heal.

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, and melanoma is the most dangerous type. However, skin cancer can be considered treatable if you take a proactive approach. It is important to consistently perform self-examinations to monitor your skin for any noticeable changes. If you have noticed changes or abnormalities on your skin, it is important to seek a consultation with Dr. Derrick. Not only can he help diagnose your concerns, but he can also help you understand your skin cancer surgery options.