What Is A Surgical Excision?
Among the most recognized melanoma skin cancer solutions is surgical excision. During this technique, Dr. Oben Blair Ojong will remove the melanoma or cancerous lesion along with the surrounding tissue, which may seem benign. The excised (or taken) skin sample will be given to a pathologist for additional testing to ascertain whether the tissue border is cancer-free. If the tissue proves to be cancerous, a subsequent procedure would be necessary to remove all cancer. With her knowledge and expertise as a Mohs skin cancer surgeon, Dr. Ojong regularly consults with our The Woodlands, TX patients at Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics to ascertain whether surgical excision is the ideal treatment alternative for their melanoma condition.
How Is A Surgical Excision Performed?
The duration of your recovery and downtime can vary, depending on the location and severity of the particular excision and whether skin grafts are needed to complete your treatment. After your procedure, you could experience a burning sensation or general discomfort in the area where the melanoma was removed. For the first couple of days following the procedure, you should take an over-the-counter medicine, like acetaminophen, to relieve pain. You should also expect some scarring that will appear red at first but will lighten with time. Many ointments or gels may be used to help lighten the scar. In order to protect the wound, a bandage should be placed on the treatment site while you are exposed to the sun.
What Are the Benefits of Surgical Excision?
At Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics, surgical excision is often employed to address multiple types of skin cancer by gently cutting out abnormal skin cells and a small sample of the healthy skin to confirm complete removal. A handful of key upsides of surgical excision at our The Woodlands, TX practice include:
- Useful for treating unhealthy and pre-cancerous lesions, outgrowths, and patches
- May be faster than alternative skin cancer removal treatments
- Treatment is not considered painful because topical numbing ointment is utilized
- Minimal probability of scarring after treatment
- Could be utilized to address basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma
Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics Reviews
I was very nervous but everyone there was very sweet and professional. Went in not expecting treatment that day but Dr. Oben Ojong was amazing and removed a mole from my face and a skin tag same day. Was in and out in under an hour!
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Surgical Excision FAQ
Does surgical excision hurt?
During the procedure, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area, so most patients experience little to no discomfort. Afterward, some soreness or tenderness is normal, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Will I have a scar after my surgery?
Scarring is a possibility with any surgical procedure, but the size and appearance of the scar will depend on factors like the size of the lesion and your body's healing process. Dr. Ojong will provide guidance on how to care for the area to help minimize scarring.
How long will it take to get my lab results?
Lab results typically come back within a week, but the timing can vary depending on the type of lesion being examined. Dr. Ojong will give you a more accurate timeframe during your visit.
Address Your Skin Abnormalities
Anytime you see an abnormal skin lesion, you should seek medical care as quickly as possible. The growth can be cancerous, and the earlier it is discovered, the better your odds of survival. An excision may be necessary and could rid the area of all the cancer before it spreads to nearby skin and body parts. Excision also allows cells to receive further testing, which can confirm whether all of the cancer has been removed. Schedule a consultation at Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics as soon as possible to meet with Dr. Ojong who will inspect the growth, discuss medical and family history, and explore all options, including whether surgical excision is necessary.