What Can You Expect On Your Visit With The Dermatologist?

When you visit your dermatologist, he or she will thoroughly examine your skin and ask about your medical history. If you need laboratory tests, your dermatologist will explain why you need them and approximately how long it usually takes to get results. 

Will my insurance pay for the visit?

Most services offered in the office are paid for. Sometimes patients do have deductibles. Please call your insurance provider to find out if you have one.

If the procedure is cosmetic, and we know it will not be paid for, we will always notify you prior to the procedure.

How Can I Tell If A Skin Growth Is Dangerous?

Become familiar with your skin and your own pattern of moles, freckles and beauty marks. Make sure to look at your entire body every month or two. Watch for changes in the number, size, shape and color of pigmented areas. Warning signs to look for include changes in the surface of a mole; scaliness, oozing, bleeding or the appearance of a new bump; spread of a pigment from the border of a mole into the surrounding skin; change in sensation (i.e., itchiness, tenderness, pain). Consult a dermatologist promptly if any changes are observed.

Which Sunscreen Should I Use?

The best sunscreen for you depends on your skin type; however, any sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more is a good place to start. 

Use a sunblock with a broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet (UVB) rays. Re-apply every 60-90 minutes and after exposure to water.

People who are sensitive to sunscreens should look for chemical-free sunscreens. These products typically contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that reflect rather than absorb the sun's rays. They are usually much less likely to cause a skin reaction.

Ask your dermatologist if he or she recommends a special sunscreen for your skin type.

How Is Skin Cancer Treated?

Skin cancer treatment depends on the type of cancer. If you have a basal cell tumor, the extent of your surgery will depend on the type, size, location, and depth of your tumor.

Melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma are typically removed (or excised) surgically. Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise technique for removing skin cancer that helps preserve healthy tissue. Other techniques for treating skin cancer include curettage and electrosurgery, cryosurgery, radiation, photodynamic therapy, laser surgery, and topical medications.

How long will my surgical procedure take?

For a normal excision, the procedure normally takes between 20-45 minutes.

Do I need to stop taking any medications before or after surgery?

No. We do not recommend you discontinue taking any medications prior to your surgical appointment.

Please make the medical staff aware prior to the procedure.