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Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction


Hi! I'm Dr. John Farella; a board certified plastic surgeon. It is my belief, that an educated patient allows you to determine your personal goals, and enables you to make an informed decision. I have developed this website as a patient information source. Hopefully, this site will prepare you for your consultation.




Procedure

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. The three types of skin cancer are quite different from each other. A majority of skin cancers - about 75 percent - are basal cell carcinomas. These form on areas of the body that are exposed to the sun, typically the head, face, and neck. Basal cell carcinomas grow slowly, do not metastasize, and are highly curable. Squamous cell carcinomas are less common and account for about 20 percent of skin cancer. They too form in areas exposed to the sun but tend to develop on the ears, hands, arms, and legs. Actinic keratoses are precancerous lesions that can develop into squamous cell carcinomas. Squamous cell carcinomas are curable when treated early and before they metastasize. Melanoma is the least common but most dangerous form of skin cancer. Usually dark in color, melanomas often resemble moles. Dr. Farella recommends that suspicious moles and lesions be evaluated as soon as they are noticed since melanomas are highly treatable if caught early.

Dr. Farella believes in treating skin cancers with surgical removal. Where appropriate, he works with a surgeon who removes the cancer by the microscopically controlled Mohs surgery. Dr. Farella then performs the reconstruction. The type of reconstruction depends on the location and size of the defect.

Risks & Complications

Risks and complications are rare and depend on the removal method. Occasional complications may include infection, scarring, and wound healing problems.

Recovery

Sutures are removed after an appropriate number of days. Wounds heal over time. The resulting scars continue to heal and will look their best after one to two years.

In/Out Patient

Removal of skin cancers is an outpatient procedure usually performed with local anesthesia. Procedure time depends on the size and location of lesion and the required reconstruction.

Information on this page is not a substitute for medical consultation or advice. Please contact us to schedule an appointment to discuss the best treatments for you.

Associations

Call for a complimentary consultation:

(914) 241-7111
Lexington Avenue Suite 104 - Mount Kisco, NY 10549

(914) 997-9090
311 North Street Suite 408 - White Plains, NY 10605

(718) 548-5200
3333 Henry Hudson Parkway Suite 1-A - Riverdale, NY 10463

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