Skin
Welcome to Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Associates of Connecticut. We appreciate your interest, in the many procedures we perform, that will allow you to look and feel better. Dr. Melendez, his associates, and staff, will take the time to get to know you personally and to develop a holistic treatment plan based upon your specific needs. They will also explain in detail all pre-and post-surgical instructions, what you may realistically expect in terms of outcome, and answer any questions you have about your care.
On this page, we will provide you with a brief explanation of the most common and popular surgeries available. All cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries should first be carefully considered and discussed with a doctor. Please call us at 203-935-8160 or click here to schedule your consultation.
Removal of skin cancers
There are three types of skin cancers and they account for approximately 95 percent of all skin cancers. These forms of cancer are melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are sometimes called “non-melanoma skin cancers†and these skin cancers are frequently related to sun exposure.
Most cases, of non-melanoma skin cancer, do not require the expertise of multidisciplinary care. The most common and effective treatment, for non-melanoma skin cancer, is surgical removal. If the physician is concerned about cancer, the tissue will be sent for biopsy.
Dr. Melendez will answer any questions you have and outline pre- and post-operative instructions.
Please call us at 203-935-8160 or click here to schedule your consultation.
Removals of lesions
Lesions are growths, or patches of skin, that do not match the skin surrounding it and are categorized as being either primary or secondary lesions. Primary lesions are birthmarks, moles, and skin irritations that are acquired over time like dermatitis, psoriasis, or hives caused by allergic reactions. Primary lesions tend to have genetic or hereditary causes. Secondary lesions are those that progress from primary lesions, either because of natural progression, or human interference caused by actions like scratching, poking, or itching. Secondary lesions are often caused by infection or illness. Most legions are non-cancerous and are classified based upon the pattern, location, and size.
Dr. Melendez will answer any questions you have and outline pre- and post-operative instructions.
Please call us at 203-935-8160 or click here to schedule your consultation.
Scar revisions
These procedures are performed to minimize the appearance, of a scar, so that it is more consistent with the surrounding tissue. Scars are visual signs resulting from an injury, a wound, or surgery. Treatment depends on the severity, type, and location of the scar. Dr. Melendez will determine what type of revision will provide the best outcome for you. Options in scar revision include topical treatments, injectable treatments, surface treatments, or surgery.
Topical treatments include gels, tapes, or other forms of compression, and they aid in the reduction of irregular pigmentation. Injectable treatments are best to fill depressed or concave scars. These results may last for several months, or years, and require additional treatment over time.
Surface treatments are most commonly used when a cosmetic improvement is desired. This is achieved by using dermabrasion, laser or light therapy, chemical peels, or skin bleaching agents.
Surgical revisions, or layered closures, are used when the excision extends to tissue below the skin surface or in areas with a high degree of movement. The first step, or layer, requires sub-dermal closure (below the skin surface) with absorbable or non-removable sutures. Layers of closure continue to build, concluding with closure of the remaining surface wound. Advanced techniques, in scar revision, include complex flap closure to re-position a scar, so that it is less conspicuous, or improve flexibility where contracture has restricted mobility.
Dr. Melendez will answer any questions you have and outline pre- and post-treatment instructions.
Please call us at 203-935-8160 or click here to schedule your consultation.
Sources: Dr. Mark Melendez, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Mayo Clinic, & Web MD.