We look forward to seeing you for your appointment at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates. To help your visit go smoothly, please arrive 20 to 30 minutes early. We encourage you to print and complete the patient forms (click here for patient forms) and bring them to your appointment, and provide them to our receptionists upon registration.
Surgical Procedures
Prepare for Your Surgical Visit
Your surgical visit should be comfortable and reassuring. Knowing what will happen (and arriving prepared) can help you feel more at ease from the start. Please provide all complete, accurate information to help your provider and care team deliver the highest level of care. If you have questions at any point, you are encouraged to call (901) 471-0660. Reaching out can help ease any nerves and ensure you feel fully confident before your procedure.
Attend Your Preoperative Consultation
Before your surgery is scheduled, you will meet with your dermatologist for a detailed preoperative visit. During this appointment, your doctor will carefully evaluate your skin concern, review your medical history, and determine the most effective treatment. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the procedure in depth. To help you prepare, you will receive educational materials to review at home prior to your surgery.
Follow Your Surgery Preparation Plan
Please review all materials provided and follow the preoperative instructions given during your consultation. On the day of your procedure, plan to arrive well rested and eat a normal breakfast unless instructed otherwise. You should expect to spend a few hours at the office. Please also arrange for someone to accompany you and drive you home afterward.
Care for Yourself After Your Procedure
After your surgery, proper aftercare plays a key role in your recovery. You will receive detailed instructions outlining how to care for your wound in the days and weeks ahead. In most cases, you should plan to wear a dressing for one to two weeks and avoid strenuous activity during this time. Following these guidelines closely helps support optimal healing and results.
Prepare for the Healing Process
Healing typically progresses steadily, with most surgical areas improving within one to two weeks. You may experience mild discomfort immediately after the procedure, which is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Some swelling or firmness in the treated area is normal and may last for several weeks or even a few months. Significant bleeding is uncommon, but if it occurs, you should contact the office promptly for guidance.
Return for Follow-Up Care
You will be scheduled for follow-up visits so your provider can monitor your healing and ensure everything is progressing as expected. These are an important part of your care, allowing for adjustments if needed and helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Stay Proactive About Skin Cancer Monitoring
If your procedure involves skin cancer treatment, ongoing skin monitoring is essential. Having one skin cancer increases your risk of developing another in the future. It is important to remain vigilant and contact your doctor if you notice any new or changing spots.
Non-Surgical Procedures
Arrive Early & Complete Check-In
Plan to arrive a little early for your appointment so you have time to complete any paperwork without feeling rushed. During check-in, you will be asked to provide details about your medical history, including current medications, allergies, and any specific skin concerns you would like addressed. This information helps your provider deliver safe, personalized care.
Discuss Your Concerns During Your Consultation
You will meet with your dermatologist to talk through your skin health, symptoms, and goals. This is your time to share anything you have noticed, whether it’s a new mole, persistent rash, changes in your skin, or general concerns about your complexion. Open communication allows your provider to better understand your needs and recommend the most appropriate next steps.
Prepare for a Thorough Evaluation
To ensure a complete assessment, you may be asked to change into a gown. This allows your provider to examine areas of your skin that may not typically be visible. The goal is to perform the most accurate and comprehensive evaluation possible.
Undergo a Detailed Skin Examination
Your dermatologist will perform a full-body exam, carefully checking for unusual moles, growths, or signs of underlying skin conditions. In some cases, a dermatoscope, a specialized handheld device, may be used to closely evaluate specific areas. This tool provides enhanced visibility and helps detect concerns that may not be easily seen with the naked eye.
Review Findings and Next Steps
After your exam or treatment, your dermatologist will go over their findings with you in detail. Based on the evaluation, they may recommend additional testing, targeted treatments, or adjustments to your skincare routine or lifestyle.
Ask Questions and Stay Engaged in Your Care
Throughout your visit, you are encouraged to ask questions and share any concerns. Understanding your skin and your treatment options is an important part of achieving the best results. Whether you are receiving a routine skin exam or a non-surgical treatment, staying informed and involved helps ensure you feel confident in your care.
What This Means for Your Visit
You can expect a comprehensive consultation paired with a thorough skin evaluation, often performed while wearing a gown to allow for a complete assessment. Most importantly, your visit is built around open communication, so you feel heard and informed throughout.
Skin Health Starts Here
At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates, we provide expert surgical and non-surgical care while supporting you before, during, and after your procedure. If you notice any suspicious areas or have any concerns, feel free to schedule an appointment.