At AVIVA Dermatology, we offer a variety of treatments, including surgical services. Our dermatologist in Houston, TX has experience with a variety of surgical services to treat all of your skin concerns. Dr. Simone Stalling, MD, PhD, FAAD wants to help you achieve healthy skin.
Surgical Services for Cancerous Skin Concerns
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, you can trust Dr. Simone Stalling. As a board-certified dermatologist, she has extensive training in surgical removal of skin cancers. Our dermatologist offers outpatient surgical treatment for skin cancer including the most common skin cancers, such as:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Melanoma
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
What Happens During a Surgical Service?
Surgery can be used to treat a number of skin conditions. For this reason, the process is not the same for every patient and procedure. It’s important to talk to our dermatologist prior to your surgery to ensure you know what to expect. In most cases, a local anesthetic will be used to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Following the surgery, our dermatologist will give you information about the recovery process. Some minor discomfort or soreness throughout the recovery process is to be expected. However, if you experience any concerning signs or symptoms please contact us. For more information about our surgical services near you, call AVIVA Dermatology. Our dermatologist, Dr. Simone Stalling, is here to help with all of your skincare needs.
What Types of Skin Cancer Surgery Are Available?
There are several surgical options for treating skin cancer, depending on the tumor type, size, and location. The most common procedure is excisional surgery, where the dermatologist removes the cancerous lesion and a healthy tissue margin. Mohs surgery is a highly precise method often used for high-risk areas, such as the face. The procedure involves carefully removing the tumor one layer at a time, with each layer examined under a microscope to ensure no cancer cells remain before continuing. Additional choices include cauterization, curettage, and electrodesiccation, which involve scraping the tumor away, and cryosurgery, which freezes and kills aberrant cells using liquid nitrogen.
What Is Mohs Surgery, and When Is It Used?
Mohs surgery is a very successful treatment for skin cancer, especially squamous and basal cell carcinoma, in specific areas of the face, neck, and hands that are susceptible to cosmetics. During Mohs surgery, the dermatologist removes the tumor in very thin layers, examining each layer under a microscope for cancer cells.Â
The team continues this process until they remove all the cancerous tissue. Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate (up to 99%) while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, making it ideal for areas where aesthetics is concerned. It’s applied to tumors with ill-defined boundaries, large lesions or recurring skin malignancies.
How Should I Prepare for Skin Cancer Surgery?
Preparation for skin cancer surgery is straightforward but important for a smooth procedure. Your dermatologist will review your medical history and discuss any medications you’re taking, including blood thinners, which may need to be held before surgery. Fasting is typically unnecessary because local anesthetic is employed, depending on the tumor’s size and location. Choose comfortable clothing, particularly if your face or neck will be exposed during the procedure. If the treatment involves a larger area or could cause discomfort, arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.
How long is the procedure?
The length of skin cancer surgery depends on the size, location, and type of skin cancer being treated. Many procedures can be completed in about 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases may take longer, particularly if additional tissue removal or reconstruction is needed. If you are undergoing a Mohs procedure, tissue will be examined during the procedure and there may be waiting periods while the specimen is evaluated. Dr. Simone Stalling will explain what to expect before your surgery so you understand the anticipated timeline and can plan your day accordingly.
Will I need to be put under?
In most cases, no. Skin cancer surgery is typically performed using a local anesthetic that numbs the treatment area while you remain awake and comfortable throughout the procedure. This approach allows you to return home shortly afterward without the recovery associated with general anesthesia. More extensive procedures or surgeries involving complex reconstruction may occasionally require additional sedation or treatment in a hospital setting, but this is uncommon. You will not have to be put under for any skin cancer surgery performed at AVIVA Dermatology. Dr. Stalling will recommend the safest option based on your diagnosis, medical history, and surgical needs.
Is this covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans consider skin cancer surgery to be medically necessary rather than cosmetic, so coverage is commonly available. However, benefits differ depending on your insurance provider, deductible, copayments, and individual policy requirements. Some plans require prior authorization or referrals before treatment. Procedures performed for cosmetic reasons alone are typically handled differently than surgery to remove confirmed skin cancer. The AVIVA Dermatology team can help verify your benefits and explain expected costs, but your insurance carrier can provide the most accurate information about your specific coverage.
What will the scar look like?
Every surgical procedure leaves some degree of scarring, but the appearance varies depending on the size and location of the skin cancer, your skin type, and how your body heals. Dr. Simone Stalling carefully plans each incision to remove the cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Most scars gradually become flatter and less noticeable over several months. Following wound care instructions, protecting the area from sun exposure, and attending follow-up visits can help support the best possible cosmetic outcome during healing.
What happens after surgery?
After surgery, your wound will be cleaned and covered with a protective dressing before you receive detailed instructions for caring for the area at home. Mild soreness, swelling, bruising, or a small amount of drainage is normal during the first several days. Keeping the wound clean, changing bandages as directed, and avoiding strenuous activities can promote proper healing. If tissue was sent to a laboratory for evaluation, Dr. Stalling will review the pathology results with you and discuss whether any additional treatment or follow-up is recommended.
Do I need stitches?
Many skin cancer surgeries require stitches to close the wound after the cancer has been removed, but not every procedure does. Smaller wounds may heal naturally without sutures, while larger or deeper excisions usually require stitches to support healing and minimize tension on the skin. Depending on the type of closure, stitches may dissolve on their own or require removal during a follow-up appointment. Before you leave the office, Dr. Stalling will explain how your wound was closed, how to care for it, and when you should return for reevaluation if necessary.
What Can I Expect During Recovery from Skin Cancer Surgery?
Recovery from skin cancer surgery varies depending on the procedure and the size of the area treated. After surgery, you might notice some swelling, redness, or mild discomfort, which you can manage using over-the-counter pain relief and ice packs. Your dermatologist will provide instructions on caring for the surgical site, including keeping the area clean, changing bandages, and avoiding sun exposure. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, although they should avoid strenuous activities until fully healed. Scarring is expected but techniques are used to minimize scarring. Follow-up appointments and annual skin cancer screenings will ensure proper healing and to prevent future skin cancers.
Skin Cancer Surgery at Aviva Dermatology - Safe & Effective Treatment
Skin cancer surgery at Aviva Dermatology. Skin cancer can be frightening, but with early diagnosis and expert care, it is highly treatable. At Aviva Dermatology, we provide expert skin cancer surgery with a focus on safety, precision, and patient comfort.
Skin cancer surgery involves carefully removing cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Each treatment plan is customized based on the type, size, and location of the skin cancer. We commonly treat basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma using evidence-based surgical techniques designed for optimal outcomes.
Procedures are typically performed in office using local anesthesia. Most patients remain comfortable throughout the process and are able to return home the same day. If you notice a suspicious spot or have been diagnosed with skin cancer, early treatment makes all the difference.
Schedule your consultation with Aviva Dermatology today. Your skin health is our priority.
