In Office Procedures
There are several procedures which can be performed in our offices. Invasive, surgical procedures more complicated than excisions, are refered to specialized surgeons. Procedures are rarely performed the same day as the appointment. A separate appointment will be scheduled for a procedure and then a follow-up appointment will be made following the procedure.
Biopsy
Biopsies are tiny samples of the skin, lesion, rash, or area of concern that are examined under a microscope for diagnosis. Biopsies are performed when more information is needed before a diagnosis can be made. They are important because most skin conditions occur below the surface of the skin. We want to treat the cause, not just the symptoms. Most insurance providers cover biopsies.
Care of Biopsy Site (Once or Twice Daily)
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Clean the biopsy site with mild soap. (Cetaphil Skin Cleanser or Dove for Sensitive Skin or generic equivalent).
- Thoroughly dry the area and apply a small amount of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to the site.
- Place a small dressing or Band-Aid over the wound until it is healed.
CryoSurgery
We use liquid nitrogen to treat a number of skin conditions including wart removal. Liquid nitrogen is sprayed directly onto the skin. After treatment with liquid nitrogen, there may be some burning sensation or pain that can last up to 24 hours. The discomfort can be relieved with Extra Strength Tylenol or similar pain relief medication.
Within 24-48 hours a blister may form. The blister will dry and heal within a few days.
Instructions for Care:
- Wash your hands with soap and water
- Cleanse the site with Vanicream, Cetaphil Skin Cleanser, Dove for Sensitive Skin or generic equivalent.
- Apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) 2-3 times per day.
- A bandage may be applied loosely over the blister until it has dried out.
- Please call our office if you have any questions or problems.
Blu-Light
Blu-Light by DUSA is a treatment we use for Actinic Keratosis (AKs), pre-cancerous growths, and for acne. For the treatment of AKs, the Blu-Light is used to activate Levulan®, a topical medication that sits on the skin 45-60 minutes and draws out AKs. The treatment for acne requires no topical medication. Acne patients use Blu-U to treat acne at the root.
Excisions
We remove lesions, cysts, skin tags, skin cancers, and a number of other skin conditions. Dr. Yeoman surgically removes lesions using local anesthetic to numb the area and then it is sutured. The provider will explain individual procedures if and when they are required. Each excision requires an individual treatment plan.
Medications
The following medications are commonly used to treat skin conditions. There are many medications available to help with the treatment of the skin, hair, and nails. Feel free to ask your provider for more information.
Accutane®
Accutane is a form of vitamin A designed to reduce the amount of oil released in your skin, and helps your skin renew itself more quickly.
We never use Accutane ® as a first method of treatment because of its possible side effects. Primarily, there are two side effects that are reported with Accutane. The first is birth defects. Any female on Accutane must successfully show two negative pregnancy tests spaced 30 days apart and then continue contraceptive while taking the Accutane. Secondly, teen depression leading to suicide has been associated with Accutane; although, this has never been proven or validated by any studies.
For more information about Accutane®, click here.
