If you’re troubled by skin lesions that have developed on highly visible areas of your body, such as your head, neck, legs, arms, and torso, you’re in good company. Visible reminders of lesions and cancers can often be removed by a quick and easy procedure during an office visit.
What are Skin Lesions and Skin Cancer?
A skin lesion is a condition that can be found on virtually any area of the body. It’s an abnormal growth or appearance compared to the surrounding skin. It can belong to two categories – primary and secondary. Primary skin lesions are already present at birth or have been acquired over a lifetime. They typically include moles or birthmarks. Secondary skin lesions are the result of irritation or primary skin lesions manipulated by things like scratching or picking.
Skin cancer can produce lesions on highly visible areas. The three types of skin cancer are:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
Skin cancer lesions form because of UV damage to the DNA of the skin’s cells. They can sometimes develop rapidly, requiring prompt treatment. There are many different treatment options for skin cancer, but surgical excision is one option.
Is Skin Lesion and Skin Cancer Surgery Right for Me?
If you want to get rid of visible spots on the skin, surgery with a board-certified plastic surgeon can be an effective option. Some people aren’t good candidates for other skin lesion treatments, or they may have concerns about scarring. Either way, you should be in overall good health and have no active infections or health concerns to be considered a good candidate.
Your Skin Lesion and Skin Cancer Procedure
During your consultation with Dr. Trupiano, you’ll discuss your surgical plan at length. There are many different techniques that can be used to remove skin lesions with careful attention to scarring and pigmentation. Typically, your procedure can be performed right in our Troy, MI office with only a local anesthetic. Once complete, you can return home with detailed aftercare instructions.
Skin Lesion and Skin Cancer Surgery Results and Recovery
Recovery from your skin lesion or skin cancer surgery is very minimal. The most important step is caring for the surgical site and changing out dressings. You’ll be given detailed aftercare instructions by our team, so make sure to follow them and follow up with our team if you have questions. Generally, it can take 1-2 weeks for the site to heal. During this time, avoid soaking the area and keep it covered to protect it from sun damage. With certain skin cancers, there’s always a chance of regrowth so make sure to perform regular skin checks and meet with a dermatologist if you have any concerns.
Schedule a Consultation
Skin lesions and skin cancer can be easily removed with a quick, in-office procedure. To learn more, meet with Dr. Trupiano by scheduling a consultation at our Troy, MI office.