Surgical Dermatology

MidState Skin Institute

Expert Surgical Dermatology Care You Can Trust

At MidState Skin Institute, we provide comprehensive surgical dermatology services to diagnose and treat skin cancer and other abnormal skin growths. Our practice was built with one clear purpose: to care for the community they proudly call home. We believe strong doctor-patient relationships are the foundation of quality medical care. Our team listens carefully, explains procedures in simple terms, and creates personalized treatment plans designed around each patient’s needs. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or have a concerning skin growth, we are here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Surgical Dermatology Services We Offer

MidState Skin Institute provides several surgical treatment options depending on your diagnosis, the size and location of the growth, and your overall health.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

The Mohs Micrographic Surgery procedure is used to treat certain skin cancers, including basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. It is often used for cancers in sensitive areas, such as the face or hands, where preserving healthy skin is important. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia in our office. It requires removing a thin layer of tissue so it can be examined on-site under a microscope. If cancer cells remain, only the additional layers are removed where needed. This process continues until the cancer is fully cleared, helping ensure complete removal while protecting as much healthy skin as possible.

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision involves removing a visible skin cancer lesion along with a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue. It may be performed to remove certain skin cancers completely or to obtain a biopsy sample of a suspicious lesion. During the procedure, the area is numbed with local anesthesia. The growth is removed, and the remaining skin is usually closed with stitches. The removed tissue is typically sent to a laboratory where a pathologist examines it under a microscope. Your provider determines the safest treatment plan based on the type and stage of cancer and your overall health. Surgical excision is commonly used for growths on the trunk, arms, or legs, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

ED&C (Electrodesiccation and Curettage)

ED&C is commonly used for certain less aggressive skin cancers, precancers, and benign growths. The area is numbed with a local anesthetic. The abnormal tissue is gently scraped away using a special instrument. Then, controlled heat is applied to the area to treat it and stop bleeding. This process may be repeated during the same visit if needed. The treated area is covered with a dressing while it heals. A small, lighter mark on the skin may remain after healing.

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal or unwanted tissue. It is most often performed using liquid nitrogen. When liquid nitrogen comes into contact with the skin, it freezes the targeted cells. This freezing damages and destroys abnormal cells, including certain precancerous or benign growths. The procedure is done in the office and usually takes only a few minutes. After treatment, the area may become red, swollen, or form a blister. This is part of the normal healing process.

Benefits

Surgical dermatology focuses on safely removing unhealthy or abnormal skin tissue while supporting healing and long-term skin health.

Precise removal of skin cancer and abnormal growths.

On-site tissue examination during Mohs surgery.

Personalized treatment plans based on your diagnosis and health history.

In-office procedures are performed under local anesthesia.

Early treatment to help prevent further skin damage.

Careful attention to healing and cosmetic outcome.

MidState Skin Institute

What Happens During a Surgical Dermatology Appointment?

Your visit to MidState Skin Institute is thorough, professional, and centered around your needs.

We begin by reviewing your medical history and discussing biopsy results or skin concerns.

The affected area is carefully examined to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Your provider explains your diagnosis and treatment options in simple, easy-to-understand language.

Most surgical treatments are performed in our office under local anesthesia to keep you comfortable.

You receive detailed wound care guidance and follow-up recommendations to support proper healing.

Ideal Candidates

Surgical dermatology care may be right for you if you:

Are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.

Identify a suspicious mole or skin growth that requires removal or biopsy.

Notice a spot that bleeds, changes, or does not heal.

Have precancerous lesions that require in-office treatment.

Want evaluation and treatment from a trusted dermatology provider in Ocala.

Why Choose MidState Skin Institute?

MidState Skin Institute provides surgical dermatology care rooted in compassion, education, and personalized attention.

Dermatology expertise led by Dr. Ashley Cauthen.

Customized, patient-focused treatment plans.

In-office surgical procedures are performed with careful attention to healing.

Strong emphasis on patient education and clear communication.

A caring, community-based practice serving Ocala families since 2013.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surgical dermatology performed in the office?

Yes. Most procedures, including Mohs surgery, excision, ED&C, and cryosurgery, are performed in our office under local anesthesia. This allows you to return home the same day.

Will I be awake during the procedure?

Yes. The area being treated is fully numbed, but you remain awake. Patients are usually comfortable and able to go home shortly after the procedure.

How long does healing take?

Healing time depends on the type of procedure and the size of the treated area. Some treatments heal within a few weeks, while others that require stitches may take longer. We provide clear instructions to help support proper healing.

When should I have a skin growth checked?

Spots that change shape, size, or color, bleed, or do not heal should be evaluated. Diagnostics play a crucial role in treatment planning.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or have concerns about a skin growth, take the next step toward protecting your skin health. Call MidState Skin Institute, today to schedule your appointment and receive personalized, patient-focused surgical dermatology care.