Dermatologist for Skin Cancer in Miami Beach, FL
Expert Care When It Matters Most
Skin cancer is serious, but treatment doesn't have to be overwhelming. Our team is here to guide you through every step.
Skin Cancer Removal Surgery in Miami Beach
Skin Cancer Excision from a Miami Beach Dermatologist
A skin cancer diagnosis can feel frightening, but with the right team on your side, treatment is straightforward and effective. Surgical excision is one of the most common and reliable methods for removing skin cancer, and when performed by an experienced dermatologist, it offers excellent outcomes for most patients.
At the Miami Center for Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, our team performs skin cancer removal surgery with precision and care. Dr. Andleeb Usmani and our providers take the time to evaluate each patient thoroughly, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach before any procedure begins.
What to Expect from Skin Cancer Treatment and Removal
How Skin Cancer Excision Works
Surgical excision involves removing the cancerous lesion along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue to ensure the cancer is fully cleared. The procedure is performed in-office under local anesthesia and is typically well-tolerated by patients.
The steps involved generally include:
- Evaluation and diagnosis: Your provider examines the lesion and confirms the diagnosis, which may involve a biopsy if one has not already been performed
- Pre-procedure preparation: The area is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic
- Excision: The lesion and surrounding margin are carefully removed
- Closure: The wound is closed with sutures, and aftercare instructions are provided
- Pathology: The removed tissue is sent to a lab to confirm clear margins
Recovery is typically straightforward. Most patients return to normal activities quickly, with suture removal scheduled within one to two weeks depending on the location of the excision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of skin cancer can be treated with excision?
Excision is used to treat several types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and, in some cases, melanoma. The appropriate treatment approach depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer, which your provider will determine during your evaluation.
How do I know if I have skin cancer?
Skin cancer often appears as a new or changing growth, sore, or discoloration on the skin. Common warning signs include a spot that bleeds, itches, or won't heal, a mole that has changed in size, shape, or color, or a lesion with irregular borders. If anything on your skin looks or feels unusual, see a dermatologist promptly.
Is skin cancer excision painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the excision itself. Some soreness and tenderness in the days following the procedure are normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
What happens if the margins aren't clear?
If the pathology report shows that cancer cells remain at the margins of the removed tissue, additional treatment may be needed. Your provider will discuss the findings with you and recommend next steps, which may include a second excision or an alternative treatment approach.
How can I reduce my risk of skin cancer?
The most important step is protecting your skin from UV exposure. This means wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, seeking shade during peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing, and scheduling regular skin checks with a dermatologist. In Miami Beach's year-round sun, consistent sun protection is especially important.
How do I schedule a skin cancer consultation near me?
Call our Miami Beach office, and we'll get you scheduled as soon as possible. Skin concerns like this are always worth addressing promptly, and our team is here to help. We look forward to seeing you!