Skin Cancer Removal in Westchester, NY
Skin cancer is the most common for of cancer appearing on areas of the skin exposed to the sun. Some can be dark in color. 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.
Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction Surgery Process
The three most common 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 pigmented 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.
Risks & Complications
Risks and complications are rare and depend on the removal method. Occasional complications may include infection, scarring, and wound healing problems.
Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction Recovery
Following surgery, our licensed registered nurse and highly capable staff will help you in immediate recovery. After a certain number of days, the sutures are removed. Wounds heal over time and the resulting scars continue to heal. They will look their best after 1 – 2 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.