804.549.4040

Surgical Dermatology

Our providers will work with you to determine which medical or surgical dermatology approach is best for you.

DermVA - Surgical Dermatology Service Bubble

Surgical Dermatology

Our providers will work with you to determine which medical or surgical dermatology approach is best for you. Most dermatological conditions are treatable with medication and non-invasive procedures and therapies. Most surgical procedures can be performed in our outpatient office setting.

Biopsies and in-house pathology

Surgical removal of skin cancers

Wound care and follow-up

Reassurance & overall peace of mind

DermVA - Cryosurgery Bubble

Cryosurgery (Liquid Nitrogen)

A cryosurgery is a form of surgical dermatology used to treat warts, precancerous lesions, and certain types of skin cancers. The extreme cold, produced by liquid nitrogen, results in the destruction of the affected tissue.

Cryosurgery has its advantages over other methods of skin cancer treatment; it is not as invasive as surgery and other complications that would usually be found in surgery are minimized. Cryosurgery is less expensive than most other treatments and generally results in shorter recovery time and hospital stay.

Minimally invasive

Multiple lesions treated at same time

Little to no recovery time

DermVA - Electrosurgery Bubble

Electrosurgery

An electrosurgery is a form of surgical dermatology used for the removal of benign and invasive skin lesions. The heat produced by the electrosurgical system produces a controlled superficial tissue burn. Electrosurgery is useful when dealing with the removal of exterior lesions, like warts, without the need for suturing. It is also useful when dealing with the removal of vascular lesions because of the minimal blood loss.

Minimally invasive

Lessened recovery time

No need for sutures

Excisional Surgery Circle

Excisional Surgery

Excisional surgery, also known as surgical excision, results in the complete removal of benign and malignant lesions when indicated. This procedure also allows for microscopic analysis of the affected tissue. Excisional surgery can typically be completed in just one session, with the results being both cosmetically and medically effective.

We have a certified dermatopathologist on staff to provide expert pathologic diagnoses. Excisional surgery is different from Mohs surgery. This is due to the number of sessions required for each surgery. Mohs may be done over multiple sessions, while a surgical excision can be completed in one session.

Used with more invasive lesions

Majority performed in office

Wound care and follow-ups as needed

DermVA - Surgical Dermatology Bubble

Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is a uniquely effective technique for accurately removing cancers of the skin while preserving the maximum amount of healthy tissue possible. Learn more about Mohs surgery here.

Effective for maintaining healthy tissue

In-house Mohs Surgeons

Reassurance & overall peace of mind

Our Surgical Dermatology Physicians

LAWRENCE E. BLANCHARD, III, M.D.

LAWRENCE E. BLANCHARD, III, M.D.

GEORGIA K. SEELY, M.D.

GEORGIA K. SEELY, M.D.

KIM M. PANZARELLA, M.D.

KIM M. PANZARELLA, M.D.

SUZANNE G. SPADAFORA, M.D.

SUZANNE G. SPADAFORA, M.D.

CHRISTOPHER T. ALEMAN, M.D.

CHRISTOPHER T. ALEMAN, M.D.

LISA C. EDSALL, M.D. PH.D.

LISA C. EDSALL, M.D. PH.D.

ADAM A. MARTIN, M.D.

ADAM A. MARTIN, M.D.

ANGELA M. SPRIGLE, M.D.

ANGELA M. SPRIGLE, M.D.

RAJ AGARWAL, M.D.

RAJ AGARWAL, M.D.

ALYSON V. RIDPATH, D.O.

ALYSON V. RIDPATH, D.O.

GABRIELLA J. MELSON, M.D.

GABRIELLA J. MELSON, M.D.

Our Mohs Specialists

ASHLEY N. SULLIVAN, M.D., MOHS SURGEON

ASHLEY N. SULLIVAN, M.D., MOHS SURGEON

JULIA K. PADGETT, M.D., MOHS SURGEON

JULIA K. PADGETT, M.D., MOHS SURGEON

NIKOO CHERAGHI, M.D., MOHS SURGEON

NIKOO CHERAGHI, M.D., MOHS SURGEON

Our Advanced Practice Providers

JENNIFER D. BAUER, MPA, PA-C

JENNIFER D. BAUER, MPA, PA-C

RATHI BLANKENSHIP, MPA, PA-C

RATHI BLANKENSHIP, MPA, PA-C

KRISTEN A. ALBRIGHT, PA-C

KRISTEN A. ALBRIGHT, PA-C

MICHELE R. RHOE, MPA, PA-C

MICHELE R. RHOE, MPA, PA-C

SHELLEY B. WOODLEY, DNP, FNP-BC

SHELLEY B. WOODLEY, DNP, FNP-BC

SUZANNE N. WEST, MSN, FNP-BC

SUZANNE N. WEST, MSN, FNP-BC

BROOKE E. HARMON, MPA, PA-C

BROOKE E. HARMON, MPA, PA-C

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is surgical dermatology?

It is a subspecialty of dermatology that involves surgical removal of skin lesions such as skin cancer, moles, cysts or other skin lesions.

When is surgical dermatology recommended?

Skin surgery is typically recommended for skin cancer or atypical moles. It can also be performed on bothersome skin lesions such as skin tags, cysts and lipomas and for cosmetic reasons.

What types of surgical procedures are commonly performed in dermatology?

Surgical dermatology includes removal of a skin lesion, often with excision or Mohs surgery. This is commonly done under local anesthesia in an office setting.

How do I know if I need surgery for my skin condition?

Discussion of the diagnosis and the risks and benefits of removal should be done with your dermatology provider to understand if surgical removal is right for you.

Is surgical dermatology only for skin cancer removal?

No, surgical dermatology encompasses any removal or treatment of a skin lesion.

What is the recovery process like after surgical dermatology procedures?

While this varies by the size of the removal and the necessary reconstruction, most patients are free to resume full pre surgical activities within two weeks.

Can surgical dermatology be performed in an outpatient setting?

Yes, statistically most dermatologic surgery is performed in an office setting with excellent safety profiles and patient comfort ratings.

How long does it take to complete a surgical dermatology procedure?

A typical standard excision can be completed within 30-60 minutes. At Dermatology Associates of Virginia, Mohs procedures can vary from 2-5 hours on average.

Is Mohs surgery suitable for all types of skin cancer?

Mohs is suitable for non-melanoma skin cancers. For melanomas, the DAV surgeons either perform wide local excision or “slow Mohs”.

What is Mohs surgery, and when is it recommended?

You can learn more about Mohs Surgery here: https://www.mohscollege.org/for-patients

Are there risks associated with surgical dermatology procedures?

Yes. While many of the risks associated with surgical dermatology are considered minor, it is important to discuss these with your treating provider.

Do I need a referral for surgical dermatology services, or can I directly schedule an appointment?

The treating provider must assess the appropriateness of the removal. Therefore, a referral from another healthcare provider and/or an in office visit with our team is necessary.

Lawrence E. Blanchard, III, M.D.

Demo Description


Education:

  • Undergraduate: Duke University, Durham, North Carolina | B.A. English, 1972
  • Medical School: Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri | M.D., 1976
  • Internship: The Jewish Hospital of St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, 1976-1977
  • Residency: Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, 1977-1980

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology

Special Interests:

Dr. Blanchard has served as President of the Richmond Academy of Medicine, The Medical Society of Virginia, and the Medical Society of Virginia Foundation

Location(s):

  • Reynolds Crossing Office
  • Midlothian Office

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Georgia K. Seely, M.D.

Demo Description


Education:

  • Undergraduate: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina | 1985, B.S. Biology
  • Medical School: East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina | 1989, M.D.
  • Residency: North Carolina Baptist Hospital, Winston-Salem, North Carolina | Internal Medicine, 1989-1992
  • Residency: Medical College of Virginia, Department of Dermatology, Richmond, Virginia, 1992-1995

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Internal Medicine
  • American Board of Dermatology

Special Interests:

Dr. Seely teaches medical students at the Medical College of Virginia, Department of Dermatology. She has an interest in Internal Medicine, as well as general Dermatology.

Location(s):

  • Midlothian Office
  • Nuckols Road Office

Awards:

  • Top Doc Award 2023 - Richmond Magazine
  • Top Doc Award 2022 - Richmond Magazine
  • Top Doc Award 2020 - Richmond Magazine

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Kim M. Panzarella, M.D.

Demo Description


Dermatology Associates of Virginia - Kim M. Panzarella, M.D.

Education:

  • Undergraduate: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. | B.A., 1988
  • Medical School: Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY | M.D., 1993
  • Internship: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, 1993-1994
  • Residency: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, 1994-1997

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology

Special Interests:

Skin cancer, general dermatology. Sees all ages, infants through elderly.

Location(s):

  • Colonial Heights Office
  • Hanover Office

Q&A:

  • What is your favorite thing about your career?
    The opportunity to see patients of all ages.
  • What are your hobbies?
    I enjoy calm water kayaking and biking with my husband and kids.
  • Do you have any pets?
    I have 3 dogs, 3 cats, 2 rabbits, and a bearded dragon. The dogs and cats are all rescue animals from shelters.
  • Where did you grow up?
    In Allegany, New York, a small town 90 minutes from Buffalo.
  • Where have you lived before moving to Richmond?
    Washington, DC; Boston, MA; Brighton, England; New York City; Cleveland, OH; Austin, TX, and San Antonio, TX. I settled in Richmond in 2003.
  • What are your favorite things about the Richmond area?
    The James River and the Capital Bike Trail.

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Suzanne G. Spadafora, M.D.

Demo Description


Dermatology Associates of Virginia - Suzanne G. Spadafora, M.D.

Education:

  • Undergraduate: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. | B.S. Biology, 1995
  • Medical School: Georgetown University, School of Medicine, Washington, D.C. | M.D., 1999
  • Internship: St. Vincent’s Medical Center, New York, NY, 1999-2000
  • Residency: University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, 2000-2003

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology

Special Interests:

General Dermatology

Location(s):

  • Reynolds Crossing Office
  • Nuckols Road Office

Q&A:

  • What is your favorite thing about your career?
    Monday mornings are never bad because I work alongside a great, caring staff and have wonderful patients!
  • What did you want to be when you were small?
    Space physician like Dr. Bones and Dr. Crusher on Star Trek.
  • What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done?
    Scuba diving with sharks in the Bahamas.
  • What is the last book you read?
    Die With Zero
  • What’s your favorite movie?
    Aliens
  • What do you do to keep fit?
    Play tennis, cycle, and strength training with Body Pump
  • What was your first job?
    Cashier at Weis Market grocery store

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Christopher T. Aleman, M.D.

Demo Description


Dermatology Associates of Virginia - Christopher T. Aleman, M.D.

Education:

  • Undergraduate: University of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia | B.S., 1989
  • Medical School: Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | M.D., 1995
  • Internship: Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia, 1995-1996
  • Residency: Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia, 1996-1999
  • Graduate: KIT Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands | MSc International Health, 2017

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology

Location(s):

  • Midlothian Office
  • Colonial Heights Office

Interests:

In his spare time, Dr. Aleman enjoys being outdoors fishing, hiking, and whitewater kayaking on the James River. He also enjoys international travel and is active in medical volunteer projects around Richmond and abroad.

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Lisa C. Edsall, M.D. Ph.D.

Demo Description


Education:

  • Undergraduate: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia | B.A. Chemistry, 1991
  • Graduate: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. | Ph.D. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 1999
  • Medical School: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia | M.D., 2004
  • Internship: Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia, 2004-2005
  • Residency: Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia, 2005-2008
  • Fellowship: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, 2009-2010

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology
  • American Board of Dermatopathology

Special Interests:

Besides her medical practice, Dr. Edsall provides dermatopathology services for the practice. Dr. Edsall is also an associate professor at the Medical College of Virginia, Department of Dermatology.

Location(s):

  • Midlothian Office
  • Colonial Heights Office

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Adam A. Martin, M.D.

Demo Description


Education:

  • Undergraduate: University of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia | BSBA, Finance, 2003
  • Undergraduate: University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee | Post-baccalaureate Science, 2004-2006
  • Medical School: University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VIRGINIA | M.D., 2010
  • Internship: University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, 2010-2011
  • Residency: University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, 2011-2014

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology

Location(s):

  • Reynolds Crossing Office
  • Colonial Heights Office

Awards:

  • Top Doc Award 2023 - Richmond Magazine

Q&A:

  • What is your favorite thing about your career?
    Great patients and working a team dedicated to providing exceptional care.
  • What did you want to be when you were small?
    Firefighter and Dinosaur Bone Collector
  • What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?
    NFL Football & College Basketball
  • If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
    Subway
  • What’s your favorite holiday?
    Halloween, though Christmas is a close second

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Angela M. Sprigle, M.D.

Demo Description


Dermatology Associates of Virginia - Angela M. Sprigle, M.D.

Education:

  • Undergraduate: University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania | B.S. Biological Sciences, Minor in Chemistry, 2006
  • Medical School: Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania | M.D., 2010
  • Internship: Crozer-Chester Medical Center, Upland, Pennsylvania, 2010-2011
  • Residency: Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 2011-2014

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology

Location(s):

  • Midlothian Office
  • Colonial Heights Office

Q&A:

  • What is your favorite thing about your career?
    Balance – having a career that I love but also being able to have time for my family. This is somewhat rare in medicine.
  • What did you want to be when you were small?
    Always a doctor. My mother is a registered nurse, and I think that sparked my interest in medicine.
  • If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
    Ice cream (if that is even a meal)
  • What was the last thing you recorded on TV?
    Probably Grey’s Anatomy when I was in medical school. We don’t even have cable now. With a young child there is no time for TV!
  • What was the first concert you attended?
    8th grade – Backstreet Boys

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Raj Agarwal, M.D.

Demo Description


Dermatology Associates of Virginia - Raj Agarwal, M.D.

Education:

  • Undergraduate: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia | B.A. Economics, Minor in Biology
  • Medical School: University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia
  • Internship: Riverside Regional Medical Center, Newport News, Virginia
  • Residency: Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, Virginia

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology

Location(s):

  • Reynolds Crossing Office
  • Midlothian Office

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Alyson V. Ridpath, D.O.

Demo Description


Dermatology Associates of Virginia - Alyson V. Ridpath, D.O.

Education:

  • Undergraduate: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA | B.S. in Biology, 2011
  • Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Blacksburg, VA | Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, 2015
  • Internship: Broward Health Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 2016
  • Fellowship: Skin & Cancer Associates, Harold Rabinovitz MD, Plantation, FL, 2017
  • Residency: OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital , Columbus, OH, 2019

Board Certification:

  • American Board of Dermatology

Location(s):

  • Reynolds Crossing Office
  • Hanover Office

Q&A:

  • What did you want to be when you were small?
    An astronomer or a marine biologist working with dolphins.
  • What was your first job?
    Slow pitch softball umpire for young girls league.
  • Do you collect anything?
    Christmas ornaments!
  • What’s the most unusual thing you’ve ever eaten?
    Rattlesnake pierogies
  • What’s your favorite movie?
    Pink Panther with Steve Martin!

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