Board-certified Dermatologist Performs Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction

Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction in Juno Beach, FL

Skin cancer removal and reconstruction has two goals: remove the cancer completely, then repair the area so it heals with the smallest, least noticeable scar possible. At Perfect Skin MD in Juno Beach, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Susan Schroeder, who completed fellowship training in cosmetic and surgical dermatology, performs both steps herself under local anesthesia.

Medically reviewed by Susan Schroeder, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist

What Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction Means

A skin cancer diagnosis is stressful, especially when the spot is on your face, neck, or hands. Removing the cancer is always the first priority. But where you will see the result in the mirror every day, how the wound is closed matters almost as much.

Most skin cancers treated this way are basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, the two most common types. The diagnosis is confirmed with a biopsy before surgery is planned. For an overview of skin cancer types and every treatment option, see our skin cancer removal and treatment page.

How Skin Cancer Is Removed

The right method depends on the type of cancer, its size, how deep it may go, and where it is. The American Academy of Dermatology describes these options in its guide to basal cell carcinoma treatment.

Surgical excision

The cancer is cut out along with a rim of normal-looking skin called the margin. That tissue is sent to a dermatopathologist, who checks under the microscope that the edges are clear of cancer. When the margins are clear, treatment is complete. This is the most common approach for skin cancer removal and reconstruction at Perfect Skin MD.

Electrodesiccation and curettage

For some small, low-risk tumors on the trunk, arms, or legs, the cancer can be scraped away and the base treated with heat. No reconstruction is needed, and the area heals on its own.

When Mohs surgery is the better choice

Mohs surgery removes cancer in thin layers and checks each one before removing more. The AAD notes it is often used for cancers on the nose, ears, or eyelids, cancers that have come back, and tumors likely to grow deep, and that it has the highest cure rate of all skin cancer treatments. When Mohs is the better fit, Dr. Schroeder will tell you so and help you arrange it.

Reconstruction Options After Skin Cancer Removal

Once the cancer is out, Dr. Schroeder chooses the repair that will heal best for that spot. Skin tension, nearby features such as the eyelid or lip, and natural creases all shape the choice.

The Skin Cancer Foundation notes that most skin cancer wounds can be closed with a local flap when a straight closure is not enough, and that flap skin closely matches the texture of the surrounding skin. Read more in its overview of the flap technique in skin cancer surgery.

What to Expect on Procedure Day

1. Review. Dr. Schroeder reviews your biopsy result, marks the area, and explains the planned repair.
2. Numbing. A local anesthetic is injected. You stay awake and comfortable.
3. Removal. The cancer is removed with an appropriate margin, and the tissue is sent for pathology.
4. Reconstruction. The wound is repaired with stitches, a flap, or a graft, and a dressing is applied.
5. Going home. Plan on about one to two hours in the office. Because there is no general anesthesia, most patients can drive themselves home.

Eat a light meal beforehand, and tell the office about blood thinners, aspirin, and supplements such as fish oil, since these can increase bleeding.

Recovery and Scar Healing

Most patients return to light daily activities the next day. Expect some swelling and bruising, especially near the eyes, and keep the dressing clean and dry as instructed. Stitches usually come out within one to two weeks, depending on the location.

• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise while the wound heals
• Keep the area out of the sun and use sunscreen once healed
• Call the office for increasing redness, warmth, drainage, or bleeding that does not stop with pressure
• Attend your follow-up so pathology results and healing can be reviewed

Scars keep maturing for many months, often fading from pink to a fine pale line. If a scar is raised, wide, or bothers you later, scar revision surgery or CO2 laser resurfacing can improve it. See examples in the scar revision before and after gallery.

Anyone who has had skin cancer has a higher chance of developing another, so regular full body skin evaluations are an important part of aftercare.

Why Choose Perfect Skin MD for Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction

Perfect Skin MD is located in Juno Beach and serves patients from Jupiter, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, and across Palm Beach County.

• Surgical and cosmetic training. Dr. Susan Schroeder completed fellowship training in cosmetic and surgical dermatology, so cancer removal and appearance are planned together.
• The same physician throughout. Dr. Schroeder performs the exam, the removal, and the repair herself.
• Pathology confirmation. Removed tissue is examined by a dermatopathologist to confirm clear margins.
• Honest referral. If Mohs surgery is the better option for your cancer, you will hear that directly.
• Direct pay. Perfect Skin MD does not accept insurance. Read the direct pay policy for details.

If you have just been diagnosed, our article So You Have Skin Cancer explains what comes next.

Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction Questions

This page is for general education and does not replace a medical evaluation. Treatment options and outcomes vary by cancer type, size, location, and individual health.