In the United States, around 6 million people are treated for skin cancer each year. While there are a variety of treatment options available, skin cancer surgery in Fairfax, VA is one of the most common and most effective. However, not all skin cancer surgeries are created equal. Let’s discuss the types and their differences.
Skin Cancer Surgery in Fairfax, VA
Getting a skin cancer diagnosis may seem scary, but in most cases it is highly treatable with an excellent cure rate. At ACS Dermatology, our doctors offer several types of skin cancer surgery in Fairfax, VA.
Electrodessication and Curettage
If you have a small, superficial skin cancer, this may be the treatment option that your dermatologist recommends. A curette is used to gently scrape away the cancerous tissue. Then an electric needle is used to stop any bleeding. This process may be done several times. This treatment is done for basal cell and squamous cell cancers. Recovery is easy and just a small scar will be visible after healing.
Surgical Excision
With this technique your doctor will remove the entire cancerous lesion and a margin of healthy tissue. After surgery the tissue is sent to a lab to ensure that all cancer cells have been removed. This is an inpatient surgery done with local anesthetic. You may experience some discomfort for a few days and stitches are removed after 1-2 weeks. Depending on the size of the cancer removed, you may have a more noticeable scar after your skin cancer surgery in Fairfax, VA.
Mohs Surgery
When it comes to skin cancer removal, Mohs surgery is the best treatment for skin cancer on your face, chest, or hands. With this technique, the cancerous tissue is removed one layer at time and examined under a microscope for skin cancer cells. This process is repeated until no skin cancer cells remain. This method aims to preserve as much healthy skin as possible for a less visible scar. However, it does have a longer recovery time and may require reconstructive surgery for the best aesthetic outcome.
Skin Cancer Checks
The key to early detection and treatment of skin cancer is regular skin checks with your dermatologist. You should schedule a skin check annually to examine any new or changing moles or lesions. Doing so will improve your prognosis and reduce the risk of complications.
Skin Cancer Dermatologist in Fairfax, VA
The dermatology team at ACS Dermatology in Fairfax, VA is well versed in identify skin cancer and providing effective treatment options to our patients. If it’s been more than year since your last skin check or you’ve noticed a change in your skin, call our office at 703-563-1461 to schedule your appointment.