Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Skin Surgery?
Skin surgery is usually performed by a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in conditions of the skin, hair, and nails. Some family doctors also perform simple skin procedures. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Skin surgery means removing or treating a piece of skin, such as a mole, a cyst, or an unusual growth. The tissue is often sent to a lab for a biopsy, where a specialist checks it under a microscope.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Reasons include a growth suspected to be skin cancer, a cyst that keeps getting infected, a mole that has changed, or a growth that catches on clothing. Some surgery is done for cosmetic reasons.
How to prepare
- Ask which medicines to keep taking, especially blood thinners.
- Mention any allergies, especially to tape, latex, or numbing medicines.
- Arrange a ride home if you will have sedation.
- Keep the area clean and avoid lotions before the visit.
What happens during it
Most skin surgery happens in an office or clinic. The doctor injects a numbing medicine called a local anesthetic, so you feel pressure but not sharp pain. The growth is removed, and the wound is closed with stitches, a bandage, or both.
Recovery
Most people return to normal activities the same or next day. The doctor will explain how to clean the area, when to change the bandage, and when stitches come out, often one to two weeks later.
Risks and side effects
Possible problems include bleeding, infection, pain, and a scar. Contact the doctor if the wound becomes more red, swollen, or painful, or if pus drains from it.
Who performs it
Dermatologists perform most skin surgery, especially when the growth might be skin cancer. For complex cases, a dermatologist trained in Mohs surgery may remove thin layers of skin one at a time, checking each under a microscope until no cancer cells remain.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance; a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can handle simple skin problems like small cysts or skin tags, and will refer you to a dermatologist if needed.
Common questions
Does skin surgery hurt?
You will feel the needle that delivers the numbing medicine. Many people describe this as a quick sting. After the skin is numb, most people feel only pressure or tugging. Soreness after the numbing wears off is common and usually mild.
Will I have a scar?
Most skin surgery leaves some kind of scar, because the skin has been cut. Scars often fade over months, though how much they fade varies from person to person. Your doctor can talk with you about ways to help scars heal well.
How soon will I get the lab results?
Lab results often take about one to two weeks, though timing varies. The doctor's office will usually call you with the results, or you can call to ask. If the results show something that needs more treatment, the doctor will explain the next steps.
Can I drive myself home?
If you only had numbing medicine injected into the skin, most people can drive themselves. If you received sedation to make you sleepy, you will need someone to drive you home. Ask the office ahead of time so you can plan.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Mohs micrographic surgery
- National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) - American Society For Dermatologic Surgery - National Organization for Rare Disorders
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
