Summer is a great time to talk about skin cancer awareness and to refresh our memories on preventative techniques, such as wearing sunscreen and other protective measures we can take. But sometimes, no matter what you do or don’t do, issues and conditions can occur that require dermatologic surgery.
At Rodgers Dermatology, we use dermatologic surgery to treat medical and cosmetic conditions of the skin, hair, nails, veins, mucous membranes, and adjacent tissues. We also use this form of surgery to treat various skin cancers, provide reconstructive flaps and grafts, and more.
What Exactly Is Dermatologic Surgery?
Having any kind of surgery can be a little scary, so understanding what exactly “dermatologic surgery” is and what that means can provide peace of mind.
The first thing to know is that our dermatologist who performs surgeries, Dr. Timothy Rodgers, is highly trained, experienced, and certified, and he has performed thousands of surgeries. He is always dedicated to providing patients with the highest quality surgical dermatology procedures and techniques.
This includes using the latest technologies, innovations, and procedures to provide minimally invasive surgical dermatology, which is typically performed under local anesthesia, to help patients suffering from skin cancer. He also performs other cosmetic procedures, such as hair restoration, varicose and spider vein treatments, correction of acne scarring, and reconstruction.
Because many of our surgical dermatology procedures require only local or regional anesthesia, patients often experience successful outcomes with reduced recovery periods. Since we use the latest technology and innovation in skin surgery, most patients experience a full recovery and minimal scarring.
Dermatologic Surgery for Skin Cancer Treatment
Dr. Rodgers uses the latest surgical dermatology procedures to excise skin cancer from patients with a positive diagnosis. He performs an incisional biopsy on the area of the skin in question, and he performs a thorough examination. With these results, he may recommend the use of surgery depending on the type of skin cancer. The most common types of skin cancer include:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
Depending on the type and depth of the skin cancer, Dr. Rodgers may recommend different surgical options, such as:
- Surgical excision
- Cryosurgery
- Curettage
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery
More About Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs surgery is a specialized type of skin cancer surgery that we perform in our office. During the procedure, the visible portion of the skin cancer is removed, along with a narrow margin of surrounding normal skin. The tissue is then taken to an on-site lab, where it is processed, stained, and evaluated under the microscope by Dr. Rodgers.
He examines the entire underside and edges of the tissue thoroughly to ensure there are no remaining skin cancer cells. If cancer is still present, he removes another layer of tissue, but only at the exact site that was noted to be “positive.” This allows any normal, non-involved skin to be preserved.
Once the skin cancer has been removed, the surgical defect is then repaired, most often by Dr. Rodgers as the dermatologist. In some cases however, other specialists will be involved in the repair, including plastic surgeons, ENT surgeons, or others.
Remember though that not all skin cancers require Mohs surgery. Dr. Rodgers will determine if you are a candidate and require this procedure. Mohs surgery is typically used for skin cancers in anatomic areas in which preservation of normal healthy tissue is critical for functional and/or cosmetic purposes, such as the face, neck, eyelids, nose, ears, fingers, and toes. It can also be used for skin cancers that have recurred after being treated, large skin cancers on the body, and other types. Studies have shown Mohs surgery to provide a 5-year cure rate of 99% for new cancers.
Dr. Rodgers has received extensive training in Mohs surgery. Residency training provides the basic skill set for the Mohs technique, including skin cancer pathology, dermatopathology, dermatologic surgery, the repair of surgical defects, and training under other Mohs surgeons. After residency, Dr. Rodgers underwent further training through the American Society for Mohs Surgery.
Learn More About Dermatologic Surgery at Rodgers Dermatology
If you suspect you may have skin cancer or have a questionable spot on your skin, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rodgers. Dermatologic surgery may or may not be necessary, but you will be in excellent hands for the diagnosis and treatment of any condition you may have, including skin cancer. Dr. Rodgers also provides personalized treatment plans to help you overcome skin cancer, and his goal is always to prevent any future recurrence.
If you would like to schedule a skin exam or have any other skin-related concerns, schedule a consultation by calling 972-704-2400 or booking your appointment online.