Surgical Dermatology in Olympia, WA
Expert Treatment for Skin Cancer & Lesions
Cascade Eye & Skin Centers provides expert surgical dermatology care close to home. Our board-certified dermatologists bring over 30 years of experience to surgical procedures, combining medical precision with techniques that prioritize both complete removal and optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Surgical Dermatology Services in Olympia
Cyst Removal
Cysts are common, benign growths that can develop anywhere on the body. While not dangerous, cysts can become inflamed, infected, painful, or cosmetically bothersome. Surgical cyst removal is performed in our office under local anesthesia.
Mole Removal
While many moles are harmless, some require removal due to signs of potential skin cancer, irritation from clothing or shaving, cosmetic concerns, or patient preference. All removed moles are sent to a laboratory for pathological examination to rule out skin cancer.
Lipoma Removal
Lipomas are soft, movable lumps of fatty tissue that grow beneath the skin. While completely benign, lipomas can become large, uncomfortable, or cosmetically concerning. Surgical excision in our office provides permanent removal.
Skin Tag Removal
Skin tags are small, benign growths that commonly appear on the neck, underarms, eyelids, and other areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. While harmless, many patients choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or because they catch on clothing or jewelry.
Skin Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment
Our Olympia dermatologists have extensive experience diagnosing and surgically treating all types of skin cancer.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. It grows relatively slowly and seldom spreads to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated, it will continue to grow and may invade and destroy surrounding tissue.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. This type of cancer generally grows rapidly and often appears as a roughened area of skin that may ulcerate or bleed.
Melanoma
Malignant melanoma usually appears as a brown-black growth on the skin that enlarges and sometimes bleeds. If not treated early, malignant melanoma can be life-threatening.
When to See a Surgical Dermatologist
Schedule a consultation with our Olympia surgical dermatology team if you have:
- A new, changing, or suspicious mole or spot
- A confirmed or suspected skin cancer diagnosis
- A cyst that’s painful, inflamed, or cosmetically bothersome
- A lipoma that’s growing or causing discomfort
- Precancerous lesions requiring treatment
- Skin tags you’d like removed
- Warts that haven’t responded to other treatments
Why Choose Cascade Eye & Skin Centers for Surgical Dermatology Care in Olympia
Board-certified Dermatologists
Our surgical dermatology team has completed extensive training in both medical and surgical dermatology, ensuring expert care for even complex cases.
30 Years of Pacific Northwest Trust
We’ve performed thousands of surgical dermatology procedures for patients throughout the region.
Advanced Surgical Techniques
We utilize the latest surgical methods and technologies to achieve complete lesion removal with optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Meet Our Dermatologists in Olympia, WA
Thomas K. Lam, MD, FAAD
Board-Certified Dermatologist | Diplomate, American Board of Dermatology | Fellow, American Academy of Dermatology
Katy McCleery, DO
Board-Certified Dermatologist | Fellow, American Academy of Dermatology | Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology
Mohs Micrographic Surgery Referrals in Olympia
Maureen Mooney, MD
Dr. Mooney is triple board-certified in dermatology, dermatopathology, and Mohs micrographic surgery. She earned her medical degree from the University of Minnesota and completed fellowships in aesthetic dermatology, dermatopathology, and Mohs surgery.
June Kim, MD
Dr. Kim is a double board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic surgeon. She completed her undergraduate degree at MIT, medical training at UT Southwestern, followed by an internal medicine internship at Stanford and a Mohs surgery fellowship at Yale.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surgical Dermatology
If you need a skin lesion evaluated or removed, our expert surgical dermatology team is here to provide the skilled, compassionate care you deserve. Cascade Eye & Skin Centers proudly serves Olympia and the surrounding Thurston County communities with comprehensive surgical skin care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surgical Dermatology
Will surgical dermatology procedures hurt?
Most procedures are performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure; just slight pressure or tugging. Post-procedure discomfort is typically minimal and well-controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Will I have a scar?
All surgical procedures create scars, but our dermatologists use advanced techniques to minimize scarring. Scar appearance depends on the procedure location, size, your healing characteristics, and how well you follow post-operative care instructions.
How long is the recovery after surgical dermatology procedures?
Recovery varies by procedure. Most patients can return to work the next day, though you may need to limit strenuous activity for 1-2 weeks. Your dermatologist will provide specific recovery guidelines based on your procedure.
Will insurance cover my surgical dermatology procedure?
Medical procedures like skin cancer removal, cyst removal, and treatment of symptomatic lesions are typically covered by insurance. Cosmetic procedures like the removal of benign moles or skin tags for aesthetic reasons usually aren’t covered. We’ll verify your coverage before your procedure.
Do I need a referral for surgical dermatology?
This depends on your insurance plan. Some require referrals from your primary care physician, while others allow direct access to specialists. Contact your insurance provider or our office for assistance.
What if my skin cancer requires Mohs surgery?
If your dermatologist determines that Mohs surgery is the best treatment for your skin cancer, we’ll coordinate a seamless referral to our fellowship-trained Mohs specialists, Dr. Maureen Mooney or Dr. June Kim, at our University Place office. They’ll provide the specialized care you need while keeping your dermatologist informed throughout your treatment.
Trusted in the South Sound for Over 30 Years
Experience expert surgical care from board-certified dermatologists dedicated to your skin health. Contact Cascade Eye & Skin Centers today to schedule your surgical dermatology consultation.