A skin cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but early and expert treatment leads to excellent outcomes for many patients. Choosing the right dermatologist is key to protecting both your health and your appearance.
Skin cancer removal includes several treatment options, from standard surgical excision to Mohs micrographic surgery. This page explains common skin cancers, how removal works, what recovery looks like, and why experience matters.
At ProDerm Skin & Surgery in Austin, skin cancer removal is led by Dr. Sydney Larkin Proffer, a board-certified dermatologist with advanced fellowship training in micrographic surgery and dermato-oncology.
Types of Skin Cancer Commonly Treated
Treatment recommendations depend on the cancer type, size, depth, and location.
- Basal cell carcinoma, the most common and typically slow-growing
- Squamous cell carcinoma, which may grow more quickly and require timely treatment
- Select melanomas, depending on stage and location
Skin Cancer Removal Options
Your dermatologist will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your specific diagnosis.
- Mohs micrographic surgery, a precise, tissue-sparing technique with real-time margin evaluation
- Surgical excision, which removes the cancer with a margin of healthy tissue and stitches
- Other approaches, such as topical or destructive therapies, in select cases
What to Expect During Treatment
Most skin cancer removals are performed in the office using local anesthesia. Your provider will review the plan and answer questions before starting.
If Mohs surgery is used, tissue is removed in stages until all cancer cells are cleared. Reconstruction may be performed the same day.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery time varies based on the procedure and treatment area. Mild swelling, bruising, or tightness is common initially.
- Follow wound-care instructions carefully
- Avoid strenuous activity until cleared
- Protect healing skin from sun exposure
- Attend follow-up visits to monitor healing
Regular skin exams are important after treatment to monitor for recurrence or new skin cancers.
Why Choose ProDerm Skin & Surgery for Skin Cancer Removal?
Dr. Proffer’s advanced fellowship training in Mohs micrographic surgery supports precise, tissue-sparing cancer removal with high cure rates.
Her background in both medical and cosmetic dermatology allows cancer treatment and reconstruction to be thoughtfully planned together, with patient safety and appearance in mind.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is common, but with early diagnosis and expert removal, outcomes are often excellent. An evaluation is the first step toward effective treatment.
To schedule a skin cancer consultation at ProDerm Skin & Surgery in Austin, TX, call (512) 535-6000.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Mohs is recommended for certain cancers and locations, but many are treated with standard excision.
Mohs offers some of the highest cure rates because margins are checked during the procedure.
Any surgery can leave a scar, but careful technique and aftercare help minimize its appearance.
Your dermatologist will recommend a schedule based on your history and risk factors.