Skin cancer is a very common condition affecting millions of Americans every year. People with a history of multiple sunburns and those living in southern climates have a higher risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanomas. When diagnosed early and treated appropriately, the outcome is excellent. If you have been told you have a skin cancer or have a lesion that is suspicious for it, the skin cancer experts at Skin Solutions Dermatology can help you.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in humans. It is important to recognize that more than two people die of skin cancer every hour in the United States. Skin cancer is a serious condition that when treated early has excellent results. Left untreated, it can be severely disfiguring or even fatal.
If you have a lesion concerning for skin cancer, don’t wait. Early treatment and care are the most important factor in allowing for a good outcome.
How is skin cancer treated with a
skin cancer excision?
The highest cure rate for skin cancer is Mohs surgery. However, not all skin cancers need this advanced method. Many skin cancers on the back, chest, abdomen, arms, and legs can be quickly and safely treated with a skin cancer excision and don’t require Mohs surgery.
A skin cancer excision is a simple, 30-minute appointment comfortably done in the office. On the day of treatment, the area is carefully identified. A safety margin of healthy skin is also outlined to ensure that the lesion is completely removed. The area is then cleaned and anesthetized to eliminate any pain. The tumor is removed and a series of stitches are applied. Depending on the location, sutures are removed in 7-14 days. The area heals over the next few weeks and often only a fine line is left after it has healed.
A pathologist will examine the skin cancer after it has been removed to ensure it was completed excised. The results will be available in about 10 business days.
Does insurance cover skin cancer excisions?
Yes. Removal of skin cancer and the reconstructive process is covered by insurances.
Why should I have my skin cancers treated at Skin Solutions Dermatology?
At Skin Solutions Dermatology, we are committed to improve our patients’ health and quality of life through compassionate, science-based care for all. Where ever you are in middle Tennessee, we have a convenient office close to you. No long waits, parking garages, or downtown traffic needed when you choose us. Call today to make an appointment with one of our skin cancer experts all across middle Tennessee to get on the path to clear, healthy skin.