A skin cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, raising questions about treatment options, outcomes, and recovery. Ocala Plastic Surgery & Dermatology provides thorough care to guide you through the process.
Our practice serves Ocala, The Villages, and Dunnellon, Florida, and is home to Dr. Jessin Blossom, a board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Blossom has years of experience treating various skin cancers. She offers advanced procedures like Mohs surgery, electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C), and excisions.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is a carefully performed procedure that preserves as much healthy tissue as possible. This approach minimizes scarring and is ideal for treating skin cancers on cosmetically sensitive areas like the face, ears, and hands.
What to Expect During the Procedure
During Mohs surgery, Dr. Blossom removes thin layers of tissue one at a time and examines them under a microscope to ensure complete removal of cancer cells. This process allows for real-time margin control – it maximizes the chance of successful cancer removal with minimal tissue removal.
Mohs surgery boasts a very high cure rate and excellent cosmetic outcomes, making it a preferred option for many patients with skin cancer.
Electrodesiccation and Curettage
Electrodesiccation and curettage, often abbreviated as ED&C, is an in-office procedure used to remove different types of skin lesions. This two-step process addresses both benign growths like warts and seborrheic keratoses, as well as some precancerous and even early-stage cancerous lesions.
What to Expect During the Procedure
During ED&C, the area is first numbed with a local anesthetic. Then, Dr. Blossom uses a specialized metal scraping tool to remove the visible portion of the lesion.
Following this, an electrode with a fine tip delivers a controlled electrical current to cauterize the treatment area. This cauterization helps minimize bleeding and destroys any remaining abnormal cells at the base of the lesion.
ED&C is typically a quick procedure with minimal discomfort, offering a same-day solution for various skin concerns.
Excisions
Dermatology excision is a common way to remove unwanted growths on the skin, like moles, cysts, lipomas, and even some skin cancers. Unlike Mohs surgery, which is typically recommended for skin cancers in cosmetically sensitive or high-risk areas, excision is often used for cancers or growths in areas where preserving surrounding tissue is less of a concern.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The excision process involves numbing the targeted area with local anesthesia. Dr. Blossom then removes the lesion using a scalpel or other surgical tool. This removal includes a margin of healthy surrounding tissue to ensure the lesion is completely removed and has a lower risk of recurrence.
Dr. Blossom then stitches up the wound to allow it to heal. Excisions are typically performed in an outpatient setting and require minimal downtime.
Why Choose Ocala Plastic Surgery & Dermatology?
At Ocala Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, we specialize in helping patients take control of their skin health. Dr. Jessin Blossom has a strong background in treating a wide range of skin conditions, including skin cancer. With training in Arizona, where skin cancer is especially common, and experience as a Navy physician, Dr. Blossom brings practical care to her patients.
Our goal is to always make you feel supported in your skin health. Whether you’re managing a long-term skin concern or need guidance for a new issue, you’ll work with a team that values clear communication and thoughtful solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery times will vary by procedure:
For electrodesiccation, healing usually takes a few weeks.
Mohs surgery may require several weeks to a few months for the surgical site to heal, depending on the size and location.
Excision recovery often takes about one to two weeks, with stitches typically removed within seven to 14 days.
Dr. Blossom can give you a more detailed timeline based on your specific treatment.
Electrodesiccation can be performed on most skin types; however, its suitability depends on factors like the type of lesion (benign, precancerous, or cancerous) and its location on your body.
For example, this procedure is commonly used for small or superficial lesions but may not be ideal for larger or deeper growths in highly visible areas where scarring is a concern. Dr. Blossom will evaluate you to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.
Dr. Blossom may provide specific instructions based on your procedure, but general preparation includes avoiding certain medications, arranging for someone to drive you home, and ensuring the surgical area is clean. Be sure to mention any medications or health concerns during your consultation.
Follow-up care typically involves keeping the area clean, applying ointments if recommended, and avoiding activities that could irritate the treated skin. We may schedule a follow-up visit to monitor healing and discuss any concerns.
The cosmetic outcome varies based on the type of surgery:
Mohs surgery is designed to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible, resulting in minimal scarring, especially in visible areas like the face.
Excisions, while precise, may leave a larger scar depending on the size and depth of the lesion being removed.
Electrodesiccation and curettage often result in a small, flat scar but may cause more noticeable changes in skin texture or pigmentation, particularly on sensitive or highly visible areas.
There is always a chance of recurrence, even after successful treatment. Regular skin checks can help us detect any changes early so you can get timely intervention if needed.
Protect Your Skin With Trusted Dermatology Care
Don’t wait to take care of your skin. Contact Dr. Jessin Blossom at Ocala Plastic Surgery & Dermatology for expert care in treating skin cancer. Call the location nearest you to schedule an appointment:
- Ocala or Dunnellon: 352-629-8154
- Villages: 352-750-0019
