Skin Cancer Removal

Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer among Americans. It occurs when the skin cells of the epidermis begin to grow out of control. Typically, this occurs due to damage in DNA caused by excess sun exposure or genetic factors. Early detection of skin cancer is crucial to seeing a positive outcome that keeps you safe and your skin looking good. In many cases, patients have a good prognosis, especially if growths are caught early.

• New moles or other skin growths
• Skin growth that changes color
• Skin growth that develops irregular edges
• Skin growth that increases in size
• Skin growth with a lopsided (non-round) shape
• Painful skin growth
• Itchy skin growth
• Bleeding skin growth

The team checks for problems and new developments during your skin cancer screenings, but it’s equally important to monitor your skin at home. About 50% of people with melanoma discover the abnormal growth themselves. A physician is needed to make an official diagnosis, as many growths or lesions may be mistaken for skin cancer. Appropriate diagnosis and evaluation are essential to being matched with an effective, safe, and optimal solution.

Skin cancer treatment depends on a few factors, including the type of cancer, growth size, location, and risk of spreading. The most common approach is in-office dermatologic surgery to remove the growth and a small amount of surrounding tissue. In some cases, you may need radiation, chemotherapy, or both to fully treat the cancer and prevent recurrence. Our dermatologic specialist works closely with each patient to evaluate their case. Treatment options are then explored based on what has the highest chances of success for that patient.

While a single sunburn might not be of concern, routine excess sun exposure can greatly increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Likewise, excess use of tanning beds present the same type of risk as sunlight. Over time, UV radiation exposure can damage the skin, leading to the biological process of runaway cell reproduction (i.e., cancer).

Genetics can play a role in how susceptible an individual is to developing this condition. Some people might spend their entire life under the sun without issue, while others may have a higher risk with minimal exposure. Knowing your personal and family medical history can be important for adapting your lifestyle to match your risk factors.

There are two broad categories of skin cancer, including:

Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers

Nonmelanoma skin cancers include two types of cancer that develop in the top layer of the skin: basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. 80% of skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas, and most of the others are squamous cell carcinomas.

Of these two nonmelanoma skin cancers, squamous cell carcinomas are more likely to move into other layers of skin, but both generally grow very slowly. And, with early detection, the cure rate is very high.

Melanoma skin cancers

Melanoma is a skin cancer that begins within the cells that produce pigment to give your skin color. It’s quite rare but is very serious because melanomas are aggressive.

Melanoma can spread rapidly to other parts of your body if not diagnosed and treated early. It can be fatal if untreated, but early treatment offers a better than 99% survival rate if treated in the localized stages.

All types of skin cancer require medical attention, so it’s important to watch for possible signs of cancer and reach out to the Institute of Dermatology & Oculoplastic Surgery if they appear.

The team also recommends annual skin cancer screenings in the office and regular self-skin checks at home, particularly if you have risk factors like being fair-skinned or having a history of skin cancer.