“Why Choose a Dermatologic Surgeon”

Dermatological surgeons are board-certified physician specialists in procedures to repair and/or improve the function and appearance of the skin. After completing medical school and a year of internship, a dermatologic surgeon receives specialized education in the form of at least three years of residency training in an accredited program that includes a core curriculum in the therapeutic, reconstructive and cosmetic treatment of skin conditions. Choose a dermatologic surgeon for:

• Diseases and disorders of the skin, hair, nails, veins and nearby tissues
• Benign and malignant growths and skin cancers
• Aging and sun damaged skin
• Cosmetic improvement of the skin

Using a variety of techniques to treat conditions of the skin, hair, and nails, many minimally invasive treatments can be performed using local or regional anesthesia, making them cost effective and convenient. Examples of procedures that require less than full anesthesia include:  skin cancer treatments, reconstruction and grafts, vein therapy, chemical peels, correction of acne scarring, injectables and soft tissue fillers and laser surgery.

Surgical Procedures

Biopsy
Hearing that you might need a biopsy can be a scary thing. However, many skin cancers can be successfully treated if diagnosed early enough and a biopsy is one of the most effective ways to diagnose this condition. Essentially, a biopsy is the surgical removal of tissue, which is then sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination. If cancerous or pre-cancerous cells are discovered, Dr. Fuller will make recommendations for treatment. She will determine the need for a biopsy and the correct procedure to use.

Skin Cancer Excision
Skin cancer. It can be frightening to consider. Thankfully, many skin cancers can be successfully treated if diagnosed and treated early enough. If Dr. Fuller suspects skin cancer during your annual exam, she will recommend a biopsy and possible removal of the cancerous growth, mole or lesion.

Cancerous growths, such as squamous cell cancer, basal cell cancer, and malignant melanoma are treated differently. Curettage, surgical excision, cryosurgery, topical chemotherapy, MOHS micrographic surgery, and laser surgery are all terms for procedures your dermatological surgeon can choose from to remove skin cancer. Dr. Fuller will decide which course of treatment is right for you.

Mole, Wart & Skin Tag Removal
The passage of time also makes the body more vulnerable to small outgrowths like moles, warts and skin tags (small bits of excess skin that can sprout up almost anywhere on the body). Fortunately, several simple but effective procedures can remove these unwanted growths safely and quickly, with no interruption of normal routines. Dr. Fuller will select the most appropriate procedure to remove a suspicious or bothersome mole, wart or skin tag.