How Surgical Excision Helps Remove Skin Cancer Safely

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, but it is also among the most treatable when caught early. At First Capitol Surgical Dermatology in St. Charles, MO, Dr. Henry W. Clever III, Dr. Katherine S. Glaser, and Dr. Ashley McGuinness provide expert care for patients with skin cancer, using surgical excision to safely remove cancerous lesions.

Understanding Surgical Excision

Surgical excision is a procedure in which a dermatologist removes a skin cancer along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. This approach ensures that the entire tumor is taken out, reducing the risk of recurrence. Excision is commonly used for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and certain melanomas.

The Procedure

Before the procedure, our St. Charles, MO, dermatology team evaluates the lesion and determines the appropriate margin of healthy tissue to remove. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, keeping the patient comfortable without burdening them by making them go completely under. During excision, the cancerous tissue is carefully removed and sent to a lab for histopathologic examination. This confirms that the margins are clear and no cancerous cells remain. In some cases, the dermatologists may use techniques such as Mohs micrographic surgery for high-risk or cosmetically sensitive areas, allowing precise removal while preserving healthy tissue.

Benefits of Surgical Excision

Surgical excision offers several advantages for patients with skin cancer:

• Complete Removal: Ensures the entire cancerous lesion is eliminated.
• Accurate Diagnosis: Tissue analysis provides confirmation and informs further care.
• Minimal Scarring: Skilled dermatologists close the incision carefully, using techniques that won’t show as much.
• Reduced Recurrence Risk: Removing the cancer with clear margins reduces the likelihood that it will return.

Postoperative Care

Recovery from surgical excision is typically straightforward. Patients may experience minor swelling, redness, or tenderness at the incision site, which usually resolves within days. The First Capitol Surgical Dermatology team provides detailed wound care instructions and schedules follow-ups to monitor healing and review lab results. Ongoing skin exams help detect new lesions early and maintain long-term skin health.

Trust First Capitol Surgical Dermatology for Expert Care

At First Capitol Surgical Dermatology in St. Charles, MO, Drs. Clever, Glaser, and McGuinness provide surgical expertise with compassionate patient care. Surgical excision allows them to remove skin cancer safely while minimizing impact on appearance and function. If you have a suspicious lesion or have been diagnosed with skin cancer, schedule a consultation to discuss your options and ensure expert, personalized treatment. Call (636) 916-1300.