Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. It affects people of all skin types, races, and ages. About 80% of skin cancer appears on the face, head, or neck. Fortunately, most skin cancers can be removed by a plastic surgeon. Depending on the size and scope of the cancer, the procedure can even be performed relatively quickly.

The best way to get answers about your skin cancer is to have a face-to-face consultation with a Board-certified plastic surgeon. Contact us online here.

Candidates

Plastic surgery can remove the following types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. The treatment that is right for you will depend on the type of skin cancer you have, its stage of growth, and the location of the cancer on your body. Your doctor’s goal is to remove the growth in a functional way that also offers the most pleasing final appearance.

What to Expect

Small skin cancers can be removed on an outpatient basis, using local anesthesia. You may be admitted to a hospital if your cancer is larger or if your procedure is more complex, and your doctor may recommend using general anesthesia.

Your recovery time will most likely be very short, unless you had a more complex procedure. You will have a scar, but with proper care after your procedure, the scar will fade over time. Your doctor will schedule regular follow-up visits to check on your long-term progress.

Before & AFter