Excisional Surgery

During the procedure, the area around the tumor or lesion is numbed with a local anesthetic, and the dermatologist or surgeon makes an incision around the area to be removed. The tumor or lesion, along with a margin of healthy tissue, is then removed and the incision is closed with stitches or staples.

The excised tissue is sent to a laboratory for analysis to determine whether all of the cancerous or abnormal cells were removed. If cancerous cells are found in the margins of the excised tissue, additional surgery or other treatments may be necessary.

After the excision, the dermatologist may close the wound with stitches or leave it to heal on its own, depending on the size and location of the excised area.

The size of the margin of healthy tissue removed during excisional surgery will depend on the type and stage of the tumor or lesion, as well as other factors such as the location and size of the area to be removed. In some cases, the area may be reconstructed using skin grafts or flaps to improve the cosmetic appearance of the area.

It is important to discuss the amount of healthy tissue that will be removed during excisional surgery with Dr. Stees, along with any concerns you may have about scarring or recovery time. He can provide guidance on the best course of treatment for your individual case, considering the potential benefits and risks of excisional surgery. 

Excisional surgery is a common treatment for skin cancer, and it has several advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Key advantages include:

• Excisional surgery removes the cancerous growth and a margin of healthy tissue, which helps ensure all cancer cells are removed.
• Excisional surgery has high success rates for treating skin cancer, particularly when the cancer is caught early.
• Excisional surgery is generally a safe and effective treatment for skin cancer, and it can often be performed on an outpatient basis.

Key disadvantages include:

• Cosmetic concerns: Depending on the size and location of the cancerous growth, excisional surgery may leave a noticeable scar.
• Follow-up procedures may be needed: If the cancer is aggressive or has spread, additional treatments may be necessary, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
• The potential for incomplete removal of the lesion: Because the skin margins are evaluated after the wound has been repaired (as opposed to Mohs surgery), there is the possibility that a second larger procedure may be necessary to ensure complete removal of the lesion.

The advantages of excisional surgery generally outweigh the disadvantages, but it is important to discuss all of your options and concerns with Dr. Stees before deciding on the best treatment for you.

Excisional surgery is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for cancerous or pre-cancerous growths, and the outcome will depend on the size, location, and stage of the tumor or lesion, as well as the individual patient’s health and other factors.

Ultimately, the decision to perform excisional surgery will depend on the individual case and the judgment of the dermatologist. Dr. Stees will consider factors such as the size and location of the lesion, the patient’s medical history, and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.