Risks & Safety Information

Skin Cancer Surgery Risks & Information

The decision to have skin cancer surgery is extremely personal. Your physician will explain all of the potential risks. Your plastic surgeon and/or staff will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo, the alternatives and the most likely risks and potential complications.

Possible Risks Include:

  • Bleeding (hematoma)
  • Infection
  • Poor healing of incisions
  • Anesthesia risks
  • Unfavorable scarring
  • Frozen-section inaccuracy
  • Pain, which may persist
  • Recurrence of skin cancer
  • Systemic spread of skin cancer
  • Change in skin sensation
  • Skin contour irregularities
  • Skin discoloration/swelling
  • Possibility of revisional surgery
  • Allergies to tape, suture materials and glues, blood products, topical preparations or injected agents
  • Damage to deeper structures — such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and lungs — can occur and may be temporary or permanent

Dr. Michael R. Spindel, M.D.

St. Mary’s Outpatient Center • 2860 3rd Ave #220 • Huntington, WV 25702

Call Us: 304.697.5272

Monday - Thursday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm