MD Dermatology offers surgical dermatology procedures as treatment options for skin cancers, lipomas, abnormal moles and cysts. While in most circumstances, surgery is used as a last resort, Drs. Martin and Cole Claiborne are skilled and experienced surgeons.
SKIN CANCER SURGERIES
1. Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCC) can be rough bumps, flat red patches, dome shaped bumps or open sores that do not heal. They often result from excess sun exposure and, when left untreated, can spread to other parts of the body. To diagnose SCC, a board-certified dermatologist will perform a biopsy using local anesthesia and examine the sample under a microscope. To treat SCC, surgical excision is often necessary. Most excisions are done under local anesthetic during an office visit and may require stitches. Mohs’ surgery is another surgical option that is performed in a medical office under local anesthesia. The patient remains awake as the affected skin cells are removed and examined under a microscope. The surgeon will continue to scrape away tissue until all traces of cancerous cells are removed.
2. Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCC) are dome-shaped growths with visible blood vessels. They can appear shiny and pink in color or white and yellow. Most BCCs develop on areas that have been affected by extended sun exposure over time. When detected early, BCC can be treated effectively with biopsy and excision or Mohs micrographic surgery.
3. Malignant Melanoma
Malignant Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer that produces dark colored moles with irregular borders. Melanomas are greater than 6mm in diameter, asymetrical and will evolve in shape, size and color. Early detection is key when dealing with Malignant Melanoma, especially when one has had extensive sunexposure or repetitive sunburns, or has family history of melanoma. The most common treatment forms for melanomas are surgical excision, Mohs Micrographic Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Your dermatologist will discuss treatment options with you.