Surgical Dermatology FAQs: What Patients Ask Most

At First Capitol Surgical Dermatology in St. Charles, MO, patients receive specialized surgical treatment for diagnosed skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. The practice focuses exclusively on surgical skin cancer care and only treats patients who have already received a confirmed diagnosis from another provider. Understanding the surgical process, along with what to expect before and after treatment, can help patients feel prepared and supported every step of the way.

What Types of Skin Cancer Are Treated?

Surgical treatment is offered for confirmed cases of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Because each of these cancers behaves differently, the surgical approach is tailored to the specific diagnosis. This practice does not evaluate suspicious lesions or provide routine dermatology care; it focuses exclusively on surgical management following diagnosis.

What Is Surgical Excision?

Surgical excision is a procedure that removes a skin cancer along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. The area is numbed with local anesthesia. The surgeon excises the lesion and then closes the incision with sutures to support healing. The removed tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory to confirm that the margins are clear and the cancer has been fully addressed.

How Should I Prepare for My Procedure?

Preparation begins with your biopsy results and any medical records related to the diagnosis. The team will review your medical history and provide instructions specific to your surgery. Patients should discuss current medications and any previous surgical experiences. Most procedures are performed in an outpatient setting, and you can go home the same day.

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

After surgery, the area may be tender, swollen, or bruised for a short period. Detailed aftercare instructions help reduce discomfort and support proper healing. A follow-up visit is scheduled to remove sutures, examine the surgical site, and discuss the pathology report. Many patients resume daily activities soon after treatment, depending on the location and size of the surgical area.

Why Is Surgery Important After a Skin Cancer Diagnosis?

Surgical removal is the most reliable way to eliminate confirmed skin cancer and prevent it from spreading. Removing the tissue allows specialists to analyze margins and ensure that all cancerous cells have been removed. This approach provides both treatment and confirmation of success, supporting long-term health and peace of mind.

Patients with a confirmed skin cancer diagnosis can receive focused, skilled care from a team dedicated to surgical treatment. To schedule a surgical appointment, call First Capitol Surgical Dermatology in St. Charles, MO, at (636) 916-1300.