The importance of understanding the risks and complications in dermatologic surgery in Washington, DC

When possible, a dermatologist would love to avoid surgery. Non-invasive solutions, when effective, provide a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for the patient. However, there are times when these conservative and non-invasive options are not going to be an effective solution and surgical options will need to be considered. While many surgical procedures performed by a dermatologist may be considered low risk, it is still incredibly important to find somebody who is competent and who has consistently provided safe and effective results for patients. At the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington, DC. Dr. Cheryl Burgess understands this and continuously performs successful surgical procedures.

Why Would You Need Dermatologic Surgery?

One major reason that one may need dermatologic surgery is to remove skin cancers including:

• Skin Tumors
• Benign growths
• Melanoma
• Basal Cell Carcinomas
• Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Surgery may also be considered an option for removing harmless yet unsightly or annoying skin growths such as a large mole or skin tags.

Possible Complications of Dermatologic Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, it is important to understand the risks. Even for low-risk procedures, there is still risk involved and complications can occur. This is true even with the most carefully and precisely carried out procedures.

Some immediate complications could include:

• Bleeding. This is especially true for those individuals who experience blood clotting abnormalities or take blood thinners.
• There could be damage to structures including sensory nerves, salivary glands or motor nerves.
• Adverse reaction to medication taken during surgery including anesthetics or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Issues with closing the wound.

There are also delayed complications that could occur. Some of these could include:

• Infection of the wound
• Reactions to the suture
• Delayed healing
• Long term swelling
• Unattractive cosmetic results

While it is important to understand that complications with dermatologic surgery could occur, Dr. Burgess will do everything within her power to make sure these complications are not induced by human error. Dr. Burgess has extensive experience in surgical procedures and is a trusted advisor to many successful groups such as Johnson & Johnson. If you believe your skin deserves the best, you should consider the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington, DC. Please call (202) 955-5757 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cheryl Burgess.

Dr. Cheryl M. Burgess, MD, FAAD

Dr. Cheryl M. Burgess, MD, FAAD, is a Board-certified dermatologist with over 20 years of experience. She earned her medical degree from Howard University and completed her dermatology residency there. As the founder and President of the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington, DC, Dr. Burgess is a respected leader in non-invasive cosmetic procedures. She’s an invited lecturer for top medical organizations, an inducted member of the American Dermatological Association, and a trusted consultant for major pharmaceutical companies, enhancing patient care through rigorous research and clinical trials.

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