Surgical Dermatology

At Clarus Dermatology, our team specializes in surgical dermatology, providing precise, effective treatment for skin cancers, abnormal growths, and visible scars. We perform most procedures in-office with minimal downtime, always focusing on your comfort and long-term outcome.

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Surgical Dermatology

Expert Surgical Dermatology
Diagnosis & Treatment

When it comes to your skin, expert surgical care matters. At Clarus Dermatology, our team specializes in surgical dermatology, providing precise, effective treatment for skin cancers, abnormal growths, and visible scars. Whether your concern is medical or cosmetic, we use advanced techniques to restore both skin health and appearance.

Clarus Dermatology

What is Surgical Dermatology?

Surgical dermatology is a specialized branch of dermatologic care that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions requiring physical removal or repair. It encompasses procedures ranging from skin cancer removal to cosmetic scar revision. Many treatments are minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia.

Conditions Treated:

Skin Cancers

Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma — diagnosed and removed with precision surgical techniques.

Suspicious Moles & Lesions

Changing pigmented lesions that require biopsy or excision for accurate diagnosis and peace of mind.

Cysts & Lipomas

Benign fatty growths and cysts safely removed with minimal scarring using advanced excision techniques.

Warts & Keratoses

Rough, raised growths treated with cryosurgery, excision, or other targeted approaches.

Keloid & Hypertrophic Scars

Specialized excision combined with adjuvant therapies to reduce recurrence and improve appearance.

Our Surgical Dermatology Services

At Clarus Dermatology, we offer a full spectrum of surgical services tailored to each person's diagnosis and skin type.

Mohs Surgery

The gold standard for removing certain types of skin cancer, especially in cosmetically sensitive areas. Tissue is removed layer by layer and examined under a microscope until no abnormal cells remain. Exceptional precision with a high cure rate.

Excision of Skin Lesions

A versatile method to remove both benign and malignant skin lesions. A margin of healthy tissue ensures complete removal, and samples are sent for lab analysis. Used for melanoma, atypical moles, cysts, and lipomas.

Additional Procedures:

Cryosurgery

Uses controlled freezing with liquid nitrogen to destroy abnormal skin cells. Fast, low-discomfort treatment ideal for actinic keratoses, warts, and seborrheic keratoses. No cutting or sutures involved.

Electrosurgery

Targeted electrical current removes superficial skin lesions including skin tags, sebaceous hyperplasia, and early-stage squamous cell carcinoma. Quick and effective with minimal recovery time.

Scar Revision Surgery

A range of options from minor excisions to advanced laser and injectable therapies to reduce scar appearance. We treat keloids, hypertrophic scars, and pitted acne scars using excision, subcision, microneedling, fillers, and fractional laser resurfacing.

The Mohs Surgery Process

Mohs micrographic surgery is an outpatient procedure used to remove and examine skin tumors to ensure complete elimination. Here's what to expect:

1. Removal

The skin is sterilized and local anesthetic administered. The dermatologist carefully cuts away the section of tissue containing the cancer and charts its orientation for accurate mapping.

2. Examination

The wound is dressed while the tissue sample is examined in the lab. The tissue is divided into sections, frozen, and studied under a microscope for any traces of cancer extending beyond the removed section.

3. Completion

If traces remain, additional tissue is removed and examined until all cancer is cleared. The surgical site is then closed. In some cases, a reconstructive specialist may assist with the closure.

What to Expect Before,
During & After Surgery

Your care journey begins with a thorough consultation. We'll examine the area of concern, provide a diagnosis or biopsy if needed, and recommend the most appropriate treatment. You'll receive a clear explanation of the procedure, recovery time, and expected results.

On the day of the procedure, most surgeries are performed in the office using local anesthesia. You'll be awake but comfortable, and in most cases, the treatment takes under an hour.

Recovery can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the procedure. We take every precaution to minimize scarring and support optimal healing.

Mohs Surgery & Reconstruction:

Specialized excision with layer-by-layer analysis. Bilobed flaps, O-to-T reconstruction, and helical advancement for ear and nose repairs.

Keloid Management:

Specialized excision combined with low-inflammation suturing and adjuvant steroid injections to prevent recurrence.

Benign Tumor Removal:

Safe, aesthetic removal of cysts, lipomas, and large seborrheic keratoses.

Hand & Extremity Surgery:

Precise removal of tumors in functional areas, such as the fingers and distal arms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about surgical dermatology procedures at Clarus Dermatology.

Sometimes, procedures will result in a scar. However, we use advanced methods, including specific closure and healing techniques, to minimize its appearance.
If the procedure is deemed medically necessary, like a skin cancer or suspicious lesion procedure, it's likely to be covered under insurance. Cosmetic treatments generally fall outside coverage. We'll help you understand your coverage before your procedure.
We'll recommend the best approach based on what we find during your consultation. This will depend on the condition being treated, your skin type, and your preferences.
Cryosurgery uses cold to destroy tissues without cutting. Excision, on the other hand, involves surgically removing tissue. It's usually used for deeper or cancerous lesions.

Find a Clarus Dermatology Office Near You

Conveniently schedule an appointment at one of our 6 locations with our online portal. You can also schedule via phone at: (612) 213-2370.

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Hugo

Maple Grove

Minnetonka

New Brighton

Ostego

Spicer

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