Electrodesiccation in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C) is an outpatient, nonsurgical procedure at Fort Lauderdale Dermatology in Fort Lauderdale, FL that removes benign, dysplastic, or cancerous skin growths. This simple procedure treats small lesions by scraping the skin down to the unaffected layer. The treatment removes cancerous growths on the skin, as well as lesions that are diagnosed as benign. Electrodesiccation remains a proven and effective substitute for surgery and is used in situations where the growth is on the top layer of skin. Experienced dermatologist Dr. Eric Wilkerson completes ED&C with patience and precision to make certain your procedure goes smoothly and scarring is kept to a minimum.

Nonsurgical electrodesiccation is most commonly used to eliminate low-risk skin cancer. It can be used if you have been diagnosed with actinic keratosis (precancerous cells), basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell cancer. The growth needs to be small and has clear borders. Electrodesiccation can be done in our Fort Lauderdale, FL office with local anesthesia.

Prior to starting the ED&C, Dr. Wilkerson will apply local anesthesia to your skin to manage your discomfort. Using a curette, he will scrape away the area until he has reached skin that is normal. Electrodesiccation is then performed on the treatment site to cauterize the area and minimize bleeding. Once the procedure is complete, you will be free to return home and continue your usual activities. 

Following your procedure, it is very important that you follow the instructions given to you by Dr. Wilkerson so that your skin heals properly. You can remove your bandages after 24 hours to clean the procedure site and then change the dressing. Dr. Wilkerson may also prescribe or suggest an ointment to use on the area. Dr. Wilkerson will also let you know when to return to our office for a follow-up appointment to check your healing progress.

If you have a skin lesion or growth, it is important to have it checked by skilled dermatologist Dr. Eric Wilkerson so that a proper diagnosis can be provided. Whether the lesion is cancerous or not, electrodesiccation could be a good choice for you. Take the first step in understanding your skin lesion by scheduling an appointment at Fort Lauderdale Dermatology in Fort Lauderdale, FL.