Men and women struggling with skin cancer may require surgical intervention to remove cancerous growths. Due to the sensitive cosmetic nature of this process, many turn to a plastic surgeon.
How Does Skin Cancer Surgery Work?
Prior to surgery, a local or general anesthesia will be administered. For smaller forms of skin cancer, Dr. Wirth will be able to remove the cancerous lesion through excision (removal by cutting). A portion of healthy skin around the lesion may be removed as well. The incision will then be sutured with thin stitches.
Larger lesions or those located on the face, hands or feet may require skin grafting to close the wound. More invasive cancers may require reconstructive surgery. For larger forms of skin cancer, Dr. Wirth may recommend Mohs’ micrographic surgery to be done in combination.
This technique allows Dr. Wirth to ensure that all cancerous cells have been removed. He will complete the surgery by repairing the wound with a flap, graft or side-to-side closure. Sutures will also be required to close the wound.