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Dermatologic surgery

Dermatologic surgery treats benign and malignant skin lesions when there is a clinical indication, with planning based on diagnosis, location and each patient's characteristics.

Surgical field with team, gloved hands and prepared instruments

Not every lesion needs to be operated on. The surgical decision should follow a proper evaluation and, in many cases, diagnostic confirmation by dermoscopy or biopsy.

When surgery may be indicated

Procedures may be considered for skin tumors, suspicious lesions, cysts, nevi, lipomas and other changes that cause symptoms, clinical risk or the need for diagnostic clarification.

Suspicious lesionsEvaluation and possible excision based on the diagnosis.
Skin tumorsPlanning based on type, extent and location.
Benign lesionsTreatment when there is a clinical or functional indication.
BiopsiesPartial or complete sampling for histopathologic examination.

How the plan is defined

Planning considers size, likely depth, anatomical location, natural tension lines, the possibility of direct closure, the need for a flap or graft, and functional and aesthetic impact.

When skin cancer is suspected, the histopathology report helps define margins, technique and the need for additional follow up.

Stages of surgical care

  1. Evaluation. Clinical exam, dermoscopy and definition of the diagnostic hypothesis.
  2. Investigation. Biopsy or complementary exams when necessary.
  3. Planning. Discussion of technique, anesthesia, expected scarring and recovery.
  4. Procedure. Performed with the technique appropriate to the site and diagnosis.
  5. Follow up. Dressing care, review, suture removal and monitoring.

Recovery and scarring

Recovery time depends on the site operated on, lesion size, technique used and individual conditions. Written instructions, dressing care, warning signs and the follow up date are part of the treatment.

Photographs cannot reliably determine the need for surgery, the technique or the appropriate margin. An in person evaluation is necessary.