SURGICAL DERMATOLOGY

At Cincinnati Skin Center, through personalized treatments and a comprehensive approach, we aim to empower our patients to understand that beautiful skin starts with a healthy foundation. Medical dermatology is a large portion of what we practice daily and addresses conditions and health concerns that affect the skin, hair, and nails. Dr. Mislankar has dedicated her practice to helping patients of all ages maintain healthy skin by providing the highest quality of service that is also rooted in compassion, integrity, and innovation.

SKIN CANCER

Surgical dermatology for skin cancer focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and removal of cancerous skin lesions through various surgical techniques. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it is primarily caused by prolonged sun exposure, although other risk factors like genetics, skin type, and immune system health can also contribute. The goal of surgical dermatology in treating skin cancer is to completely remove the cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible, minimizing scarring, and ensuring clear margins to reduce the risk of recurrence. Surgical techniques used by Dr. Mislankar include cryosurgery, excisional surgery, and curettage and electrodessication. Should you have a cancer that is indicated for Mohs micrographic surgery or radiation therapy, Dr. Mislankar has a network of referrals to get you appropriate and adequate treatment.

- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive form of skin cancer, BCC usually appears as a small, shiny bump or a red, scaly patch. It typically develops on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and hands. While BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can grow locally and invade surrounding tissues if not treated.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC is the second most common type and often appears as a red, scaly, or crusted patch that may bleed. It can also develop into a firm nodule. SCC is more likely than BCC to spread to other areas of the body if left untreated.
- Melanoma: The most dangerous form of skin cancer, melanoma can develop from existing moles or appear as new, irregularly shaped dark spots. It can spread rapidly to other organs if not detected and treated early. Melanoma is characterized by asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, and a larger diameter than typical moles.

Actinic keratoses

Actinic keratoses (Aks) are precancerous growths that develop on areas of the skin that have been damaged by prolonged sun exposure. AKs are most common in fair-skinned individuals, especially those who have spent significant time in the sun over the years, though they can occur in individuals of all skin types.

AKs typically appear as rough, scaly, or dry patches that may be red, pink, or flesh-colored. AKs are usually found on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, backs of the hands, forearms, shoulders, or lips. While AKs are generally not painful, they can sometimes itch, burn, or feel tender. While AKs themselves are not cancerous, they are considered precancerous lesions because they have the potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a type of skin cancer. It is important to monitor and treat AKs promptly to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Often treatment is performed via cryosurgery (freezing via liquid nitrogen) in the office. Another common treatment option includes topical medications that target the rapidly dividing abnormal cells. Occasionally surgical removal, laser surgery, or chemical peels can also be performed.

Fatty tumors/Lipomas

Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) growths made up of fatty tissue. While lipomas are generally harmless, they can be uncomfortable particularly when located in visible or sensitive areas. Lipomas vary in size, ranging from small to large, and are usually soft to the touch and movable beneath the skin.

Lipomas typically appear as round or oval lumps that feel soft and rubbery. They are usually small, but some can grow to be several inches in diameter. They are most commonly found on the shoulders, back, arms, and thighs. They rarely form on the head or face but can occur there as well. In most cases, lipomas are painless. However, if a lipoma presses on nerves or blood vessels, it may cause discomfort, tenderness, or, in rare cases, pain.
Observation and surgical excision are the two most common options. Our office does requires consultation prior to surgical excision to determine if your specific lesion based on size and location are amenable to surgical removal. If so, the procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and can be performed in an outpatient setting.

CYSTS

Cysts are common and can vary in size, from tiny, barely noticeable lumps to large growths. While most cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and harmless, they can cause discomfort or be aesthetically concerning, especially if they are located on visible areas of the body.

Cysts often appear as round, smooth, and raised lumps or bumps under the skin. They can range in size from small to large.Cysts are generally firm but movable beneath the skin, especially if they are filled with fluid. Some may feel tender or warm to the touch.Many cysts are asymptomatic and don't cause any pain. However, if a cyst becomes infected, it can become painful, swollen, and red. Cysts can develop anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the face, neck, back, and scalp.
Observation and surgical excision are the two most common options. Our office does requires consultation prior to surgical excision to determine if your specific lesion based on size and location are amenable to surgical removal. If so, the procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and can be performed in an outpatient setting. If a cyst is infected or inflamed, we sometimes perform an incision and drainage, intralesional steroid injection, or add antibiotic therapy.

MOLE REMOVAL

Mole removal can be typical during a surveillance skin exam or for a suspicious lesion. However certain moles that appear benign can also be removed for cosmetic purposes with minor surgical removal. These are on a case by case basis and can be discussed during your visit.