Advanced Dermatologic Care for Skin Cancer Treatment
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, but when detected and treated early, it can often be cured. At Pure Dermatology Cosmetic and Hair Center in Newport Beach, Orange County, our board-certified dermatologic surgeons specialize in melanoma removal and personalized skin cancer care using the most advanced techniques available.
We combine expert diagnosis, precise surgical treatment, and follow-up care to give you the best possible outcome with a focus on long-term health and confidence.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma begins in the pigment-producing cells of the skin (melanocytes). It can develop in existing moles or arise as a new spot. While less common than other skin cancers, melanoma is more likely to grow and spread if not treated early.
Melanoma may appear as:
- A new mole or dark spot
- A change in an existing mole’s size, shape, or color
- An asymmetrical lesion with irregular borders
- A spot that bleeds, itches, or changes over time
Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent melanoma from progressing.
Melanoma Removal Procedure
The general steps involved in the procedure are as follows:
- Local anesthetic is administered to numb the area around the melanoma.
- An incision is made around the melanoma, taking care to remove the entire tumor along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue.
- The removed tissue will be sent to a pathology lab to be examined under a microscope to ensure that all of the cancerous cells have been removed. If any cancerous cells remain, additional surgery may be required.
- The size and location of the melanoma will determine the size of the incision required for the removal. In some cases, particularly for larger melanomas, a skin graft may be necessary to repair the area where the melanoma was removed.
- After the melanoma is removed, the wound will be closed with sutures or skin adhesive.
- A dressing or bandage may be placed over the area to protect it while it heals.
- You will be given instructions for how to care for the wound and will need to return to the dermatologist’s office for follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and ensure there are no signs of recurrence.
Why Early Removal Matters
Melanoma can be aggressive. When caught in its early stages, however:
- Surgical removal is often curative
- Spread to lymph nodes and internal organs is less likely
- Outcomes are significantly improved
Melanoma removal aims to completely excise all cancerous tissue while preserving healthy surrounding skin. The expertise of a dermatologic surgeon helps ensure precision and optimal cosmetic results.
Our Approach to Melanoma Treatment
Full Clinical Skin Evaluation
Your dermatologist will perform a thorough evaluation, including:
- Visual skin examination
- Dermoscopy for enhanced imaging
- Review of history and risk factors
Biopsy & Diagnosis
If a suspicious lesion is found, a biopsy is performed to confirm melanoma and determine its depth (Breslow thickness), which helps guide treatment planning.
Surgical Excision
Melanoma is typically treated with a wide local excision, meaning:
- The cancerous lesion is removed
- A margin of surrounding healthy tissue is taken to ensure complete removal
- The wound is repaired for optimal healing and cosmetic outcome
In selected cases, especially for higher-risk melanoma, lymph nodes may be evaluated or additional treatments recommended.
What to Expect During Surgery
- Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable
- The melanoma and appropriate margins are excised
- Tissue may be sent for pathology to confirm clear margins
- Skin is closed using surgical techniques designed for minimal scarring
Most procedures are done in-office or in a surgical suite with comfort and safety as top priorities.
Recovery & Aftercare
After melanoma excision:
- Mild pain, swelling, or redness is normal
- Dressings and wound care instructions are provided
- Sutures are typically removed in 1–2 weeks
- Follow-up appointments ensure proper healing
Your dermatologist will also advise on:
- Sun protection strategies
- Routine self-skin exams
- Timing of future professional skin evaluations
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanoma Removal
Is melanoma removal painful?
No, local anesthesia ensures comfort during the procedure. Mild tenderness afterward is common.
How quickly should melanoma be removed after diagnosis?
Prompt removal is recommended, typically within a short time after diagnosis to reduce risk of spread.
Will I need additional treatment?
Depending on pathology results or stage, additional treatments such as immunotherapy, radiation, or lymph node evaluation may be recommended in collaboration with an oncologist.
Will there be scarring?
All surgical procedures leave scars, but careful closure techniques and proper aftercare help minimize their appearance.
How often should I have skin checks?
Regular skin exams, often every 3–12 months depending on risk, are strongly encouraged for early detection of new or recurrent melanoma.
Early Detection. Expert Treatment.
If you’ve noticed a suspicious lesion or have been diagnosed with melanoma, the dermatologic experts at Pure Dermatology Cosmetic and Hair Center in Newport Beach, Orange County are here to help. With advanced surgical precision and personalized care, we work to remove melanoma effectively and support your long-term skin health.
Call or Text Today to Schedule Your Skin Cancer Evaluation