Dermatologic Surgery

What is dermatologic surgery?

Dermatologic surgery is a group of minimally invasive surgical procedures that treat problems affecting the skin, nails, and hair. Dr. Richey specializes in the treatment of abnormal skin growths, generally performing necessary procedures onsite in his Venice office. 

When might I need dermatologic surgery?

You might need dermatologic surgery if you have a problem such as: 

• Actinic keratosis - precancerous skin growth
• Actinic cheilitis - precancerous growth on a lip
• Skin cancer - basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma
• Moles
• Warts
• Cysts
• Scars

Dr. Richey treats many conditions using non-surgical methods at first; however, in cases where a skin growth has a risk of becoming cancerous or worsening, dermatologic surgery might be the best solution. 

You might also need dermatologic surgery if you have an uncomfortable noncancerous skin growth or if you want a growth removed for cosmetic reasons. 

What happens during dermatologic surgery?

Dr. Richey administers a local anesthetic before performing dermatologic surgery. That numbs the skin lesion and its surrounding skin but doesn’t affect you in any other way, so you are awake for the procedure. 

There are many different methods of dermatologic surgery, including blade excision, cryosurgery (freezing with liquid nitrogen,) and laser procedures. Dr. Richey always uses the most conservative technique possible to ensure that you lose very little healthy skin in the procedure. 

What happens after dermatologic surgery?

After some procedures, you may need several tiny sutures to close the skin. Dr. Richey cleans and bandages your surgical site and gives you detailed instructions for looking after the incision as it heals. That may include avoiding water submersion and sun. 

Healing time varies with the size and type of the growth and other factors specific to you. For the most part, people who have dermatologic surgery can resume their regular activities the next day, while taking precautions to protect their healing skin. 

You return to the office in a week or two for a follow-up so Dr. Richey can make sure you’re healing well. 

After your dermatologic surgery, remember to protect your skin (and decrease the risk of skin cancer) by avoiding excessive sun exposure and wearing sunscreen. 

To schedule your dermatologic surgery with an expert provider who’s always there for you, call the Hobart K. Richey, MD, PA, office or click on the online booking tool now.