Geriatric dermatologic surgery part II: Peri- and intraoperative considerations in the geriatric dermatologic surgery patient

Learning objectives After completing this learning activity, the reader will be able to better discuss this aspect of the literature. Disclosures Editors The editors involved with this CME activity have reported no relevant financial relationships with commercial interest(s). Planners Robert T. Brodell, MD, FAAD is an investigator for Pfizer Inc. and receives grants/research funding. Reviewers George Hruza, MD is a stockholder for Johnson and Johnson Consumer Products, Pfizer Inc., Teva, and Unilever and does not receive compensation. Hao Feng, MD, MHS is a consultant for AbbVie and receives fees. Staff The staff involved with this CME activity have reported no relevant financial relationships with commercial interest(s). All relevant financial relationships have been mitigated. Geriatric patients compose a growing proportion of the dermatologic surgical population. Dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons should be cognizant of the unique physiologic considerations that accompany this group to deliver highly effective care. The purpose of this article is to discuss the unique preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative considerations geriatric patients present with to provide goal-concordant care. Preoperative considerations include medication optimization and anxiolysis. Intraoperative considerations such as fall risk assessment and prevention, sundowning, familial support, and pharmacologic interactions will be discussed. Lastly, effective methods for optimizing postoperative wound care, home care, and follow-up are reviewed. ( J Am Acad Dermatol 2025;92:19-34.)