Skin Cancer Treatment & Excision

Most skin cancer treatments are well-tolerated with minimal discomfort. Procedures are done under local anesthesia so that you won’t feel pain during the actual treatment. Afterward, you may experience some tenderness, swelling, or tightness in the treated area, but this usually subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

Many patients only need one appointment for the treatment itself, especially if the lesion is small and clearly defined. However, the full process may include an initial consultation, a biopsy (if not already done), the treatment visit, and at least one follow-up to check healing. For larger or more complex cases, further appointments may be necessary.

You’ll notice results right away in the sense that the lesion will be removed during your treatment. However, visible healing takes a bit more time. Redness, scabbing, or mild swelling may persist for about 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the method used and your body’s natural healing response. Final cosmetic results will become more noticeable over the following months.

In some cases, yes. If you have additional lesions (such as benign growths or moles) or are interested in cosmetic dermatology treatments, our team can address multiple concerns in one visit. That said, skin cancer treatment is always the top priority, and any add-on procedures will be considered carefully to ensure safety and optimal healing.

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring, or recurrence of the cancer if not fully removed. That’s why it’s essential to work with an experienced dermatologist like Tania Cohen, DMSc, PA-C, who uses meticulous techniques and follows evidence-based protocols to minimize these risks.