Surgical Excision
Surgical excision is one of the most effective methods for removing skin cancer. During an in-office procedure, your dermatologist carefully removes the cancerous lesion along with a small margin of surrounding tissue, then sends the sample to pathology to confirm clear margins and complete removal.
What Is Surgical Excision?
Surgical excision is an outpatient procedure in which a dermatologist uses a scalpel to remove a skin cancer lesion along with a small border of healthy-looking tissue, called a surgical margin, to reduce the likelihood that any cancerous cells remain. The wound is then closed with sutures, and the removed tissue is sent to our in-house dermatopathology lab for analysis.
Excision is used to treat a wide range of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and certain cases of melanoma. It is a well-established, highly effective treatment option, particularly for lesions located in areas where tissue preservation is less critical, or for cancers that are well-defined and have clear borders.
Unlike Mohs surgery, which involves real-time microscopic analysis and staged removal, standard excision removes the lesion in a single pass and relies on post-procedure pathology to confirm complete removal. Your provider will recommend the approach that best fits your diagnosis, lesion type, and location.
What to Expect With Surgical Excision
Excision is performed in the office and typically takes less than an hour. Here is a step-by-step look at what happens on the day of your procedure.
Preparation
Treatment
Removal
Closure
Expert Analysis
Aftercare
A Clear Path Forward After Your Procedure
Most patients return to light daily activities the same day. Recovery is straightforward for the majority of excisions, and your care team will be available to answer questions as you heal. Below is a general recovery timeline. Your experience may vary based on the size and location of your excision.
Recovery at a Glance
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Dermatopathology Expertise You Can Trust
Board-Certified Expertise at Every Step
Continuity of Care Across Your Full Journey
What Patients Are Saying
big J.
I'm a new patient i was very impressed with the place the staff and the doctor I was seen by made me feel welcome.
Laurel B.
Great practitioners who are caring and knowledgeable with a friendly front desk staff.
Tom T.
Amazing staff. Thorough evaluation.
Judy G.
I was in there today. An elder woman came in. She couldn't seem to find the office of another Dr. in the building. The woman at the desk, Brooke, was so helpful. She asked the woman to come over by her and said she would see if she could find out what the story was. She figured it out and directed the woman to the office door next to the one she was in. Brooke, stopped what she was doing to lend a hand and in doing so, figured out where the woman needed to go so as not to miss her appointment. Brooke's attitude and manner was polite, friendly and overall the example of an employee who is meant for the care of people.
Rosemary O.
I had a consultation with Leslie. She took the time to evaluate my concerns and explain every treatment option they offer. She answered all my questions with knowledgeable answers and did not pressure me in any way. I feel confident in her and plan to schedule a treatment with her.
Yael R.
Outstanding service and care by Dr. Monica Valentin (Fairfax location). She's genuinely caring, compassionate, professional and attentive to the patient's needs. Dr. Valentin delivers much needed results in a focused and compassionate manner. She stands among the best in a crowded field where knowledge, skills and great bedside manners are essential to the patient's confidence in a positive outcome.
Breiyana J.
My experience was wonderful Dr. Murphy and her assistant was very pleasant and knowledgeable. Dr Murphy assistant took great notes to convey to her and when she entered the room she on point. Excited to began my healing journey and return to myself 🤩 10 out of 10 🤩🤩
Lindsey C.
I went in for an annual skin check appointment, with provider Gabriella Reed. She was excellent, kind, easy to understand, and reassuring. Highly recommend!
Clifford C.
Absolutely a brilliant Team! … with amazing care for their patients!
Sonia g.
Laren and her staff are wonderful—warm, welcoming, and very laid back, which immediately puts you at ease. I came in for a three-month follow-up and also brought up a new concern. They didn’t hesitate for a moment to address it and made sure all my needs were taken care of. Laren is both professional and down-to-earth. Her relaxed approach makes the visit feel more like catching up with someone who truly cares rather than a typical doctor’s appointment—which I really appreciate. Highly recommend!
Lee X
Dr. Wu is an excellent doc, highly recommended
Nila P.
Dr. Lindgren was very knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything clearly. They listened carefully and answered all my questions. Front desk staff were also friendly and welcoming. Would definitely recommend!
Jeremy A.
After my Primary Dr. told me I needed to get some moles checked by a dermatologist, I begrudgingly made the appointment and showed up. In general I don’t like anything to do with medical exams so I walked in with a less than excited attitude but everybody in the office was super friendly. The PA (Colella) had a professional and great bedside manner which made the visit easy. I was extremely uncomfortable (feeling awkward) about the visit but she was very professional, friendly and asked lots of questions during the exam so I forgot about how uncomfortable I was as soon as the exam started and then it was all done with all clear results. Thank you very much for making an “awkward” visit pretty quick and very easy. I would highly recommend this office to anybody that needs to get skin their checked and hates the idea of being so closely examined. 😃🇺🇸
Lucia
I recently had the CoolPeel Tetra Laser treatment with Sharnel Reed at the office and had such a great experience. She was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and so sweet throughout the entire appointment. She made me feel comfortable every step of the way and explained everything clearly. The staff was incredibly kind and welcoming, and the office was very clean and aesthetically pleasing. I’m so excited to see my results and would definitely recommend her to anyone considering the treatment!
Paul Z.
Professional. And now with Covid protocol efficient. In and out quickly.
Debra T.
Thanks to Trina and sclerotherapy, my legs haven’t looked this good in 20 years! Unfortunately, my spider veins had gotten so bad over the years that I was embarrassed to even wear capris out in public—much less a bathing suit. Now I feel more confident, more attractive, and more like my old self. It really has made an incredible difference in my life. You are awesome, Trina!
Donna W.
Dr. Jenna was absolutely wonderful. I had been putting off a full-body skin scan for years out of fear—especially about the possibility of skin cancer. But from the moment I walked in, Dr. Jenna made me feel at ease. She walked me through the entire process, explained each mole and bump in clear, reassuring terms, and asked for my permission every step of the way. I even agreed to a biopsy, and I'm so glad I did. Her assistant was just as kind and professional, and the front desk staff made the whole experience warm and welcoming. I've already recommended this practice to others. I may have more follow-up needs in the fall, but one thing’s for sure—I won’t be putting off my scans anymore.
Veronica D.
I have been a patient at Virginia dermatology for the past 5 years I have had the greatest experience and care from Dr Robert I will truly miss him I told him I know I should be happy for your retirement but I am going to be sad not to have you for my doctor. He had the greatest personality. His staff was friendly and professional. I look forward to continuing being a patient there. Everyone that works there are so kind and professional and they always make you feel valued. I will highly recommend them to any of my family or friends.
Joseph G.
Dr Lam and the entire staff are very professional and empathetic!
Bernie B.
Good service. Great treatment.
Bernie B.
Great job today.
Bernie B.
This was my 3rd visit. The reception was welcoming and professional. The dermatologist was thorough in this examination and made me feel at ease. Great experience overall.
Bernie B.
Very nice staff, clean facility, easy to schedule appointments, and if I have to reschedule they do it without problem.
Bernie B.
I had to have a carcenoma removed, and it was easy and painless.
Bernie B.
My husband and I have used Dr. Miller for several years. He is always professional and very thorough. The entire staff is great. Wouldn’t go anyplace else.
Bernie B.
The staff was great. I'm older and not so great with new technology,. the receptionist sat with me and filled out the computer part of the new patient sign in. The Dr. Was so personable.
Bernie B.
I was very impressed with the attention and time taken for my skin cancer examination. Thank you for the good care I received. : )
Bernie B.
Staff are professional and thorough. If they needed clarification on anything, they called for assistance. Dr. Sable is the best and I trust his judgment and procedures. Everyone is working as a team to achieve wonderful results!
Bernie B.
Dr Cook and his staff are all amazing! They are kind and helpful! They all care about our fears and I never feel rushed and always feel really good each time I leave! I love this entire staff of people in Clinton NC!
Bernie B.
Best Dr's and staff you can ask for. Definitely recommend this office. They are down to earth and listen to you and answers your questions and advises you on there experiences with problems and medication.
Bernie B.
My experience with Dr Boswell and staff has always been excellent!! She is a very understanding and caring Doctor.
Bernie B.
Friendly and helpful staff. Very quick and timely.
Bernie B.
I wish I could split this review between the front desk and the providers. I would give the providers 5 stars. The front desk would get 2 stars. Made to feel like a complete annoyance to them.
Bernie B.
Angie is a gem! Whoever brought her on board, kudos to you.👏🏾My 2 teenage daughters have been patients here for a few years and on each & every visit, she is always so sweet, kind, relatable and welcoming. That really goes a long way. ❤️
Bernie B.
I feel like i won the lottery when Dr. Christopher Dolan ended up being my skin cancer surgeon. I was very apprehensive about having any surgery, as this is only the second time in my long life to have had to have surgery. In talking to an old boss of mine, who also had skin cancer removed from his face, and the pain he related associated with its removal, as well as his dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome, made me very nervous. But the nurses who assisted in prepping me for my surgery were wonderful, always inquiring whether i was experiencing any pain, and working to ensure that i wouldn't feel any during my surgery were spot on great. Dr. Dolan, as others have mentioned for them as well, called me the following day, to inquire whether i had any questions or concerns, was further reinforcement of my belief that Dr. Dolan and his staff are the best of the best, and that i am blessed to have had them treat me.
Bernie B.
They are true professionals in the field of dermatology. Dr. Gloria López is highly knowledgeable in her profession, very thorough, gentle, and effective. The clinic and staff are welcoming and friendly.
Bernie B.
I've been going there for probably 10 years. I considered them the best. The wait is not long and nurses are great. Drs amazing. I see Dr Johnson and I like him. Give them a try.
Bernie B.
Great Doctors and staff. My only issue was I had to wait almost 40 min before I can make an appointment
Bernie B.
My daughter goes here and we just love Pricilla and Sojnia Baer. They are very quick, friendly and helpful with everything. I wouldn’t go anywhere else!!!
Bernie B.
Staff is always friendly and professional. I also get seen most of the time before my appointment but never longer than 5-10 minutes afterwards.
Bernie B.
I had a great experience with dr Kenny and Taylor! The medical assistant was so patient and kind and answered any questions I had. Kenny made sure I was listened to and I look amazing!! Highly recommend
Bernie B.
Mercy Brown is a real professional and takes whatever time necessary to answer all questions.
Bernie B.
Very Courteous, Friendly, Timely and Professional Staff! Treated With Kindness!
Bernie B.
Brianna was all about solution provisions than about traditional procedures and that’s what I’m looking for.
Bernie B.
Very friendly and helpful!
Bernie B.
Wonderful experience, thank you Morgan
Bernie B.
I felt in good, professional hands with Dr. Becker about my skin exam, and his staff was also very patient-oriented. A very pleasant experience.
Bernie B.
Great experience, made my son be at ease and explained everything very clearly.
Bernie B.
Always excellent care. Highly recommend.
Bernie B.
Amy and her staff are great. Amy is a great physician and very careful, thorough and explains things medically one can understand. I greatly appreciate this group
Bernie B.
Very pleased with my experience at this office. Care staff was very knowledgeable and efficient with recommendations for treatment. 10/10 would recommend to my network. La recepcionista de la derecha tomó un tono muy agudo conmigo que no fue apreciado. Básicamente, la gordita era un poco demasiado picante para mí gusto.
Bernie B.
We love this place and Anne Allen MD is remarkable!!!! - Foster Mom
Bernie B.
Always fast. Super friendly staff.
Bernie B.
The team is amazing and makes me feel very cared for during every visit
Bernie B.
Dr. Carla is so helpful and truly one of the kindest people I have ever met. I have been here a few times and always receive great care and communication.
Bernie B.
Thanks to Dr. McGuigan and staff for their professionalism, courtesy and care! They are the best!
Bernie B.
I cannot say enough good things about this clinic! Dr. Wheat and all of the staff are incredible. Highly recommend.
Bernie B.
Dr. Andrew M. Operated on my face 10 years ago. Was extremely satisfied with him and the positive outcome. So happy to have the same outcome with the tumor removed from my ear by Dr. Chris K Nolan 2 years ago. Now on my 10th anniversary Dr. Andrew M. again did his magic and removed a serious Basal tumor from my scalp. Even called me later that evening to see how I was doing. Just a great surgeon and person.!
Bernie B.
Excellent Experience! The staff and doctor were very friendly and knowledgeable. They took great care of me during my procedure,and I really appreciated that Dr. Malone personally checked in afterward to make sure I was doing okay. Nurse Shannon was also wonderful—very kind and attentive throughout the visit. Highly recommend!
Bernie B.
Our family has always had a great experience with Dr.Frank Navarro and his team. The front staff ladies are always welcoming and friendly❤️ I highly recommend to anyone looking for a Dermatologist in the area. I rate beyond 5 stars🌟
Bernie B.
Cam is absolutely 💯 the best we have found in the industry
Bernie B.
Excellent service. Extremely on time which is very important to me. First visit. Great experience!
Bernie B.
The very professional and caring staff were not only excellent at their jobs but fun to interact with. I highly recommend their services.
Bernie B.
Nice doctor and nice staff
Bernie B.
I highly recommend Tidewater Dermatology….very friendly staff and didn’t have to wait forever to be seen. My exam was thorough and I received great explanations/answers to the questions I asked. I left feeling good about my future visits and felt I was in good hands with Jennifer.
Bernie B.
I would recommend this Dermatology clinic to anyone in need.
Bernie B.
I have been a patient at the Fairfax location for many years. Each visit the staff have been courteous and warm towards me. They are all highly efficient and competent. I couldn’t ask for a better team to take care of me. Most importantly my doc, Dr Jonathan Smith is friendly and highly skilled. I know I’m under the best of care.
Bernie B.
Friendly, and never have to wait long.
Bernie B.
The staff and doctor were wonderful! They took very good care of me. It was my first visit and they took their time to make me feel comfortable and safe! Thank you so much God bless!!! Maribeti Caballero.
Bernie B.
Dr Cho listened to my concerns and addressed them. He was very professional and pleasant to talk with.
Bernie B.
Dr. Rice, her assistant, and the office staff are always both friendly and efficient. I highly recommend!
Bernie B.
I am totally satisfied with his medical examinations. However, trying to get in touch by phone became a horror show since he became part of the larger group. The first call said there was a 39 minute wait time. I was able to leave a message to be called later. I was unable to answer the return call, but a message was left on my machine. Unfortunately, the message started skipping and I could not hear all of the new phone number to be called. My second call soon got the recorded message announcing the wait time as one minute. It then kept repeating the one minute wait time message over and over and over. After 5 minutes of this, I hung up. On my third try, the recording said over and over and over that the wait time was the 8 minutes. After getting frustrated again, I was about to hang up when suddenly the call was answered--by a lady who sounded very, very bored with her job.
Bernie B.
Very friendly comforting staff. Very knowledgeable. 10/10 would recommend!!
Bernie B.
I’m extremely pleased with the care I receive from Dr. Anderson and her staff at the Stevensville office location. I’d recommend this practice to anyone looking for great dermatologist and an easily accessible location.
Bernie B.
Efficient, organized, pleasant visit
Bernie B.
Dr Lam and PA Morgan are fantastic!! Do excellent work and make you feel at ease.
Bernie B.
Dr. Rice and staff are excellent. I drive an extra 20 min. to go to this location because my appointments are generally on time, the staff is great and the exam chairs are so much better than other locations.
Bernie B.
I’ve had a great experience here, would highly recommend.
Bernie B.
Ashley is an excellent provider. Everyone in the office is really nice.
Bernie B.
Staff were very friendly and efficient. Paige Venable was very personable and thorough. Answered any questions I had. High recommend
Bernie B.
Lady that got married recently at the front desk was nice. Wasn’t a long wait and the dermatologist was very helpful!
Bernie B.
First visit. Clean and very courteous. Staff is awesome and the doctor was amazing.
Bernie B.
I can't thank this office enough I had to pay out of pocket to get diagnosed and to get a biopsy and the rates were very reasonable for someone with no insurance I'm extremely thankful for that. I was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma Dr Johnson and his team did a fabulous job of treating it it was a painless procedure done reasonably quick and I feel very good about it I'm extremely thankful for Dr Johnson and his team. I would recommend this place to a family member or friend they are fabulous. Good communication aggressive with getting insurance situated and really good about getting an appointment as soon as possible
Bernie B.
Dr.Prussick is very through. I have have been seeing him for well over twenty years.
Bernie B.
Never a long wait and all the staff are personable and friendly. Always the most pleasant medical experience I have. Folks here are great!
Bernie B.
Excellent experience. I ❤️Dr Brown. Highly recommend this practice.
Bernie B.
I was very pleased with my experience. The staff and doctor were very friendly and helpful.
Bernie B.
Excellent care and great attitudes and service!
Bernie B.
Very well run, and overall experience was excellent
Bernie B.
This is my third year going for my annual checkup and extremely please with this office. They are thorough, courteous and professional.
Bernie B.
Been going there for many years when the need arises,always very satisfied with providers,and there friendly,accommodating staff!Definitely would recommend them,should you ever need treatments !
Bernie B.
Very excellent service and professional advice. I strongly recommend them.
Bernie B.
Very pleasant experience from the time I walked in. Dr. Richardson was very professional and detailed. She explained everything and addressed all of my concerns.
Bernie B.
Very clean, very professional, easy to talk to & answered my questions.
Bernie B.
Anne Arundel Dermatology is the best of the best. Punctual. Your appointment happens at the time you scheduled it for. Love my doctor, Dr. Sammy Kang.
Bernie B.
I was treated very well by the staff.
Bernie B.
Love my experience here. Recommend Trina for always a professional experience. Rhonda at the front desk is always accommodating. Highly recommend. Feels like friends.
Bernie B.
Great experience with exceptional staff and an outstanding Doctor and PA! You are in competent and professional hands and you have found the correct place for your dermatology needs! 👍👍
Bernie B.
Great place, everyone extra great and listened.
Bernie B.
Dr. Jillian and her assistant Alyssa are amazing. Staff is very welcoming, polite and professional. Thank you!
Bernie B.
Great practice. Clean, personable and friendly. Was very thorough and knowledgeable. Answered my young daughters questions throughly and made good suggestions for the issues. Made her feel safe and welcome.
Bernie B.
My first visit was just right. Nicole, Stephanie and the entire team were most gracious and provided excellent care. Thank you!
Bernie B.
Great service! Would highly recommend
Bernie B.
Good people great service,they know what to do
Bernie B.
Very professional
Bernie B.
I had a great appointment with Frank Navarra PA. He was professional and extremely thorough with my skin check. Took his time looking over my body and explained his findings especially with my history of previous skin cancers. Additionally, he removed several skin tags. It has been 24 hours and I have zero discomfort or pain. The receptionists were personable and professional. I love the convenience of this office location and the ability to get an appointment within a few days of trying. I highly recommend Frank and Academic Alliance Dermatology at Bloomingdale’s Health Hub
Bernie B.
Excelente el trato de Todas las Muchachas de la Recepción, la Doctora Nathaly Rodriguez un Encanto y muy Profesional igual su Asistente 10/10 👍👏🥰👍👏🥰
Bernie B.
They are so kind and helpful! They have been so quick to see me when something comes up and so kind when o am there.
Bernie B.
Excellent care and very professional service. DR He and her staff take excellent care of me. Highly recommend if you are experiencing any skin care issues.
Bernie B.
Hannah Rose was so nice. She made it so easy and comfortable. A full body scan for skin cancer is not something anyone wants to do, but she made it so easy and painless. Thank you! Second appointment: Dr. Dawn and her assistant Cameron were absolutely amazing! So kind and friendly, putting me at ease, while also staying professional and doing an amazing job. I appreciated this entire office for making this experience easy for me. I am so grateful.
Bernie B.
The staff and doctor could not have been better! They took such good care of me! So appreciate them taking care of my skin cancer during the uncertain times—-highly recommend this surgical center!! Thanks again!!
Bernie B.
I've consistently received the best treatment at Atlantic Dermatology. All of the staff are very friendly and considerate. The doctors have so far cured a couple of skin problems, with no fuss or pain.
Bernie B.
Complacida con la atención en general . Amabilidad , respeto, empatía, asepsia de la clínica .
Bernie B.
Julie Morley is the best !!
Bernie B.
wonderful experience and diagnosis professionalism to the extreme.
Bernie B.
Everyone was professional & I really felt comfortable with doctor & assistant was very relieved to have such a good experience
Bernie B.
The people here were very polite, got me in and out an my needs were satisfied!!
Bernie B.
I was pretty worried going into my appointment, but my care provider Valery immediately put me at ease. She was kind, professional, and took the time to address my concerns. The staff were also very friendly and easy to communicate with throughout the visit and after my visit when I had a question about my billing. Overall, a really positive experience!
Bernie B.
Fabulous practice with delightful people who are always there for my skin care needs. Dr. Katz is personable and highly attentive. I highly recommend this dermatology Practice.
Bernie B.
Dr. Hand and everyone else on staff are terrific! They have synergy, are efficient, and effective as a team. Dr. Hand genuinely cares and addresses your concerns you have an appointment for- well deserved 5-star review.
Bernie B.
Very professional. Obtained an appt easily. Short wait. Swift biopsy, painless. Liked the staff and dermatologist. Would recommend.
Bernie B.
Excellent service ! Doctor was very knowledgeable and explain everything clearly! Best experience I ever received!
Bernie B.
Doctor Neal has real people skills. I am glad I switched to them. Friendly staff and nice office. My wife goes there too.
Bernie B.
Elegantuche muy excelente personal muy muy buen trato y cariño
Bernie B.
My first visit, everyone was friendly and smiling. This is a good sign that the staff cares. I would highly recommend them to anyone
Bernie B.
I don’t understand the negative reviews I have seen online! This office is beautiful, clean and relaxing. I was a little bit nervous as I haven’t been to a dermatologist in a few years. The front office staff was inviting and friendly. Rhonda, the assistant was friendly, knowledgeable, and personable. The PA Joseph made me feel very comfortable with the skin biopsy procedure I received in office ON THE SAME DAY OF MY APPOINTMENT! I was very surprised to be able to have the procedure at the time of my appointment! He seemed very knowledgeable and explained to me the abnormalities I should look out for in my skin. Overall, I had a very positive experience and will be returning in 12 months time for a check up. I will be recommending friends and family to your office.
Bernie B.
I had my follow up appointment today and I just wanted to say that Whitney is fantastic! I went in to the office on May feeling extremely self conscious of my acne and desperate for relief. Whitney was very thorough when explaining what was going on with my skin and gave me sample products to try since the ones I was using didn’t seem to be benefiting my skin. She also gave me 3 prescriptions that ended up being the perfect solutions for my skin. So today, I went in and we compared pictures from May to now, and the difference was unbelievable. My skin has completely cleared. I only have scarring now that is already starting to fade. I couldn’t be more thankful for Whitney and the wonderful staff here at East Tennessee Dermatology Group!!!
Bernie B.
Great first experience with Dr Lauren Szaraz. Plan on coming back for any of my dermatology needs.
Bernie B.
I recommend this place.
Bernie B.
Dr Johnson and his Newport News staff are welcoming, professional, personable, and provide top notch care. Cathy, Kendall, and Tammy are staff you look forward to seeing, and Dr Johnson is a mohs magician! His offices are comfortable places to be.
Bernie B.
Every visit has been handled perfect. !! Three treatments all went very well.
Bernie B.
I had an amazing experience with Tiffany at Academic Alliance in Dermatology! She is truly a master when it comes to cosmetic treatments. Her skill with Botox and a variety of fillers is incredible, she has an artistic eye for facial contours and balance, and the results look natural and beautiful. Tiffany takes her time, explains everything clearly, and makes sure you are comfortable throughout the process. I could not be happier with my results! The entire office is professional, welcoming, and a pleasure to visit. Highly recommend Tiffany for anyone looking for expert, natural looking results!
Bernie B.
Cassidy Conley is the best : very patient with explanations and does not rush the appointment. Front desk is understaffed but employees are still friendly and professional
Bernie B.
The dr was so kind, gentle and best bed side manor.
Bernie B.
Quick visit,very nice staff, quick results.
Bernie B.
Great people -- from super kind front desk staff, to medical assistants and para professionals, to Mariella Purvis, PA-C, who is a gem. 💎 5 stars! Ding: Parking is confusing and atrocious, with poor signage and a multi level garage behind the building that doesn't align and attach to the building unless you enter the magic entrance in a dank, creepy stairwell. So plan to arrive 1 hour early and you just might make it in time. 👤😵💫
Bernie B.
The PA Anjana Patel is the best at this practice. She is very professional, experienced and caring. All other staff at this clinic are very caring and makes the patient feel special. I would definitely recommend North Atlanta Dermatology-Suwanee to everyone.
Bernie B.
I was just in today 7-21-26 and didn't Realize my new insurance card needed a referral for a specialists. Lisa and Aline quickly stepped in and got it all situated for me. it's been a long time since I've seen such nice and helpful people at a front desk. five stars for customer service!! Thanks for your help!
Bernie B.
April was professional and informative. She made me feel comfortable and understood my pain tolerance. She was definitely a 10.
Bernie B.
I had a wonderful experience at Academic Alliance in Dermatology. Semhar Mekonen APRN was great, and everyone I interacted with—from the front desk to the medical assistant and the woman who helped me check out—was so kind and welcoming. The whole visit felt smooth and comfortable. I’m grateful for such a lovely team and would definitely recommend them!
Bernie B.
Just returned from first appt. at AA Dermatology. I was immediately at ease with the friendly and helpful receptionists. L didn't have to wait long and the med assistant was kind and helpful. Dr Clarke is outstanding ! Biopsy and cauterization with no pain. Also, kind, answers questions and reviews treatment with you. Thanks to everyone !!
Bernie B.
Erin Diaz and Evelyn T. were an excellent team who I would definitely recommend for anyone to see for dermatology treatments they were very professional were especially careful while treating me with my in office procedure I trust them completely!
Bernie B.
Love all the staff
Bernie B.
The doctors and staff are professional and friendly and caring.
Bernie B.
Bonnie is so gentle but effective. Great facial!
Bernie B.
The office is very tidy. The staff is friendly and supporting. Janet Benson is very knowledgeable and thorough. She explains everything in detail. It was a pleasure for me to be there. The staff is helpful and friendly.
Bernie B.
Just top-rate. Caring, knowledgeable and fantastic bed side manner. Love Dr Jessica and her entire staff . 21 years and counting . Thank you to everyone there.
Bernie B.
I easily and quickly got an appointment. The staff were very nice! The nurse even held my hand when I had to get a lidocaine injection and helped calm my nerves. I have a four week follow up to confirm that my issue is solved but so far so good!
Bernie B.
I really recommend this place. The office is clean and the staff is very professional and friendly. I felt valued and respected. Dr. Curtin is the best.
Bernie B.
Excelente staffing really polite
Bernie B.
My visit with Kasen was wonderful! So relaxing and my skin looks great!
Bernie B.
I’ve been going to this group for a few years. My mom was also a patient. I appreciate the continuity of care by Sanjani Goya APRN
Bernie B.
Excellent example of a well run office. Staff friendly and efficient. Dr. O’Neill was kind and expert.
Bernie B.
Highly recommend even gave me sunscreen samples
Bernie B.
Very positive experience. Walked into a crowded reception room and expected a long wait, but it only took a few minutes for me to see the doctor. Very efficiently run practice and I was treated with great care.
Bernie B.
I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Becker and his team. Dr. Becker is incredibly knowledgeable and clearly stays up to date with the latest research, treatments, and medications in dermatology. I always feel confident that I’m receiving the most current and effective care. What truly sets him apart is how kind and attentive he is. He never rushes through appointments, takes the time to really listen, and thoroughly answers all of my questions. Despite being so thorough, he is also extremely prompt—I am never left waiting in the waiting room or exam room, which I really appreciate. His medical assistant, Andrea, is equally amazing. She is knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely listens. She goes above and beyond—for example, when I was prescribed tretinoin, she even helped guide me on where to get it at the most affordable price, which I truly appreciated. This clinic stands out because they are not pushy at all. There is absolutely no upselling or pressure to buy products or treatments. It’s clear that their focus is 100% on patient care and the true practice of dermatology. I am so grateful I found this practice and would highly recommend Dr. Becker and his team to anyone looking for excellent dermatologic care.
Bernie B.
The entire staff were very friendly and professional. Alonna, ARNP, is very knowledgeable and also very pleasant
Bernie B.
Bernie B.
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Your Excision Questions, Answered
Both procedures surgically remove skin cancer, but with different techniques. Excision takes out the lesion and a set margin of surrounding tissue at once, while Mohs surgery removes thin layers of tissue and examines each layer in real time until clear margins are confirmed. Mohs is usually recommended for cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas, recurrent cancers, or when tissue preservation is crucial.
The area is numbed with a local anesthetic before the procedure begins. Most patients feel only a brief sting at the injection site. Once the anesthetic takes effect, the excision itself should not be painful. Some tenderness and soreness in the area are normal in the days following the procedure.
Most excisions are completed in under an hour, including preparation and wound closure. The time varies depending on the size and location of the lesion. You will be able to go home the same day.
Any surgical procedure leaves some degree of scarring. The size and appearance of the scar will depend on the size of the excision, the location on the body, and how your skin heals. Your provider will close the wound carefully to support the best possible cosmetic outcome. If scar appearance is a concern, ask your provider about scar management options available after healing.
Because we process tissue samples through our in-house dermatopathology lab, results are typically available faster than practices that use outside reference labs. Most patients receive results within five to ten business days. Your provider will contact you to discuss the findings and confirm whether the margins are clear.
If pathology results show that cancerous cells extend to the edge of the removed tissue, your provider will discuss the next steps. This may include a follow-up excision to remove additional tissue, or a recommendation for Mohs surgery, depending on the location and type of cancer. Your care team will guide you through the options clearly and without pressure.
In most cases, yes. Excision is performed under local anesthesia only, so you will not be sedated and can typically drive yourself home. If your procedure is in a location that might make driving uncomfortable, or if you feel uncertain, having someone with you is always a good option. Your provider will advise you at your appointment.
Your care team will provide specific aftercare instructions before you leave. Generally, this includes keeping the area clean and covered, avoiding submersion in water, limiting strenuous activity that could stress the incision, and applying any recommended ointments to support healing. Your suture removal appointment, typically within one to two weeks, is also a good opportunity to ask any questions about how your wound is healing.
Surgical excision for a confirmed or clinically suspected skin cancer diagnosis is typically covered by most insurance plans as a medically necessary procedure. Coverage varies by plan, so we recommend confirming your benefits before your appointment. Our team can assist with questions about what to expect.
Concerned about a spot on your skin?
Our board-certified dermatologists can evaluate your concern and walk you through the right treatment approach for your diagnosis.
Related Treatments
Skin Cancer Treatment That Doesn’t Leave You Guessing
A diagnosis is the first step, and knowing what comes next is what makes the difference. Our board-certified dermatologists are here to walk you through your options, perform your procedure with precision, and keep you informed at every stage of your care.
