Skin cancer is one of the more common types of malignancies. Fortunately, the vast majority of times they are completely treatable without chemotherapy or radiation. Dr. Schaefer combines his experience in cosmetic surgery with his reconstructive training to obtain the best possible outcome. Many times, Dr. Schaefer will both remove the skin cancer and reconstruct the defect.

Your Consultation

Dr. Schaefer will spend time with you to fully explain his recommendations for you and answer all of your questions. During your consultation, he will perform a thorough medical analysis and devise a plan based on your specific skin cancer and anatomy.

Every aspect of your procedure will be customized depending on your specific needs. Dr. Schaefer and his staff will make sure you are fully prepared for the procedure and know exactly what to expect.

What to Expect from Skin Cancer Surgery

Skin cancers come in different types and sizes located anywhere on the body, so your surgery will be customized to you. Many times, skin cancers can be removed under local anesthesia with minimal down time. In simple cases, the skin cancer will be removed, sent to pathology for evaluation, and the incision will be closed.

Complex situations may require general anesthesia and specialized forms of reconstruction, such as free flaps. Free flap reconstructions are methods of taking skin and fat flaps or skin, fat, and muscle flaps from one area, totally “free” of the body, and transferring it to the area in need. This requires general anesthesia and advanced microsurgical techniques.

Dr. Schaefer will discuss with you his plan to best treat your skin cancer and reconstruct the defect left behind by the treatment. Dr. Schaefer will coordinate with other specialties when necessary to treat your skin cancer.

Recovery from Skin Cancer Surgery

You can expect to have swelling and bruising, as with any type of surgical procedure. Many times, you will go home the same day. Small treatment areas may require little downtime. More complex reconstructions may require a hospital stay and several weeks to months of recovery. You will have regular postoperative examinations so that Dr. Schaefer can monitor your progress. Scarring will gradually improve over a period of months and will look less prominent with time. Strenuous physical activity may need to be limited for a period of time. Our team will be an excellent resource to advise you with your recovery plan.

Choosing a plastic surgeon to perform Skin Cancer Surgery

Choosing the right surgeon for skin cancer surgery is of paramount importance. It is vital for your plastic surgeon to have the right qualifications and credentials, such as board certification and good standing with the various medical boards.

You also want to be sure that your surgeon has professional, friendly, and caring support staff. These people will assist you while in the office and during your recovery, so it is essential to feel comfortable with the entire team.

Do your research to learn as much as possible about your surgeon. Then, arrive at your skin cancer surgery consultation prepared with questions, concerns, and your ultimate goals written down.

Why Choose Dr Schaefer As Your Skin Cancer Surgeon?

With his careful planning and problem-solving approach, Dr. Schaefer customizes his strategy so that your surgery is specifically designed for your body and disease process. Dr. Schaefer is known for his work in the Minneapolis community in helping patients restore their health and self-confidence. He has been honored as a BEST DOCTOR and BEST DOCTOR FOR WOMEN by the Minnesota Monthly Magazine, as well as a TOP DOCTOR FOR PLASTIC SURGERY by the Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine.