What Is Surgical Dermatology?

Surgical Dermatology is the treatment of cancerous and non-cancerous conditions of the skin, hair, and nails by various surgical, reconstructive, and cosmetic methods to repair and/or improve the function and cosmetic appearance of skin tissue.

At Reno Tahoe Dermatology, we treat benign and cancerous lesions with a variety of techniques. Dr. Billie Casse, Board Certified Dermatologist, focuses on an approach using surgical excisions as well as shave and punch biopsy removals to remove cancerous and non-cancerous lesions.

Types of Skin Conditions We Treat in Surgical Dermatology

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
  • Melanoma Skin Cancer
  • Other Cutaneous Malignancies/Cancers
  • Lipomas
  • Epidermal Cysts
  • Pilar Cysts
  • Moles
  • Skin Tags
  • Ear Piercing Hole Reconstruction
  • Scar treatment and Removal

Excisional Surgery

Excisions are done on all parts of the body for cancerous and non-cancerous lesions. During the surgery, typically, the lesion plus a margin surrounding the cancerous or non-cancerous lesion is removed and then closed with sutures. The tissue is then sent to pathology to assure all the cancerous tissue has been removed. Sutures will be in place for the specified period discussed with you.

Excisional Expectations

  1. Before your procedure, please refrain from blood thinners such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Fish oil and Vitamin E for 1 week before. (Unless otherwise specified or discussed with your prescribing doctor). You may restart or take one of these the day after your procedure.
  2. Please refrain from drinking alcohol the night before your procedure.
  3. Please DO NOT exercise the day of, and two days after your procedure. This includes walking your dog. Cancel your workout classes, be prepared.
  4. You will leave with a pressure bandage over your surgery site, this needs to stay on for 24 hours. When you take this off, you may then get the area wet in a shower. After shower rebandage as directed to you.
  5. Most of the time you will be directed to come back into this office to have your sutures removed.