Plastic Surgeon vs. Dermatologist for Lesion/Cancer Removal

As we age, we develop lesions that may be skin cancer. This is especially true in individuals who have excessive skin exposure as a teenager. It has been proven that one severe sunburn contributes to the development of subsequent skin cancers.

Patients are unaware that most plastic surgeons remove and treat skin cancers and body lesions. When one considers the extensive surgical training that a plastic surgeon receives, it is obvious who is more qualified to remove these suspicious areas. Dermatologists are skin specialists that are best for diagnosing various skin conditions. Even though some dermatologists receive some surgical training, it does not compare with a plastic surgeon.

My advice for anyone who is concerned about scarring, they should seek the advice of a plastic surgeon. If their insurance plan refers them to a dermatologist, the patient should request from their primary care physician a referral to a plastic surgeon. A little bit of knowledge will save a patient the trauma of a unsightly scar.

Dr. Wald