Skin Cancer Removal

Skin Cancer Treatment

Skin cancer treatment can remove cancerous or precancerous growths found on the skin. Skin cancer is among the most common forms of cancer. Patients of all ages can develop skin cancer throughout their lives. Many factors can contribute to the formation of cancerous growths, including ultraviolet radiation from repeated sun exposure or tanning, our genetics, and the environment in which we live. Skin cancer is a serious condition, but one that can be treated efficiently if diagnosed early. At Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron, our team of board certified dermatologists can diagnose and treat skin cancer, while our board certified plastic surgeon can restore a natural-looking aesthetic post-treatment. Our team can address numerous forms of skin cancer, including Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Merkel Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma.

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer refers to the abnormal growth of skin cells as a result of over-exposure to the sun. These cells continue to multiply, forming tumors or lesions on the skin. Some forms of skin cancer, like Basal Cell Carcinoma, rarely metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body. However, other forms of skin cancer, such as Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Merkel Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma, have the potential to spread to other areas of the body. Early detection and treatment of skin cancer can prevent growths from spreading later on.

Types Of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma	Most common form of skin cancer	Caused by the uncontrolled growth of basal skin cells	May appear as a flesh-colored patch or lump	Rarely spreads to other areas of the body
Squamous Cell Carcinoma	Another common form of skin cancer	Forms due to the rapid growth of squamous skin cells	Often red, scaly patches or bumps	Has the potential to spread to adjacent areas of the body
Merkel Cell Carcinoma	Rarer form of skin cancer	Occurs when Merkel cells multiply uncontrollably	Generally a red or flesh-colored lump that appears raised	May spread to other areas of the body
Melanoma	Most serious form of skin cancer	Caused when melanocytes (cells that produce melanin) grow rapidly	Usually dark in color, similar to a mole	Can spread quickly to other parts of the body

Skin Cancer Signs / Symptoms To Look For:

Any suspicious growths found on the skin should be properly evaluated by a board certified dermatologist. Some possible skin cancer signs include asymmetrical moles, open sores which fail to heal, scaly or crusty patches of skin that do not fade, or moles that have changed in appearance.

Skin Cancer Removal

Possible Indicators Of Skin Cancer
Moles with asymmetrical shapes or colors	Moles that have changed in appearance
Open sores that do not heal	Moles with irregular or blurred borders
Crusty or scaly patches of skin that do not fade away or heal	Raised bumps or nodules
Large lumps found on the skin	Itchy, oozing, or bleeding lesions / patches

How Do You Diagnose Skin Cancer?

Our skin cancer doctors can thoroughly examine your skin. Our dermatologists provide mole mapping to monitor the growth of suspicious moles. A biopsy can also be recommended; during this procedure, a small amount of the growth is removed and sent to a laboratory for further testing.

Skin Cancer Treatment At A Glance:

There are a variety of different skin cancer treatments available. Cancerous or precancerous growths can be surgically removed from the skin and then sent to a lab to be analyzed. During skin cancer removal, some healthy skin (the skin immediately surrounding the growth) will also need to be excised. Our dermatologists can precisely mark the proper margins when removing skin cancer and our plastic surgeon can utilize a combination of cosmetic techniques to restore a natural-looking appearance after skin cancer surgery. The doctors at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron can further discuss the details of your skin cancer treatment during your in-office consultation.

How Do I Know If Skin Cancer Treatment Is Right For Me?

Our board certified dermatologists at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron have years of experience diagnosing and treating skin cancer. Our team can help advise if skin cancer treatment may be right for you during your consultation at our New York City offices.

Is Anesthesia Recommended?

Local anesthesia is usually administered during skin cancer removal to minimize any discomfort.

What Should I Expect After Undergoing Treatment For Skin Cancer?

Patients can usually return to work and most daily activities immediately following skin cancer surgery. Your stitches will be removed after a few weeks to allow for optimal healing. Our dermatologists recommend that patients apply sunscreen and limit sun exposure following skin cancer treatment.

How Do I Get Started With Skin Cancer Treatment?

The doctors and staff at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron would be happy to discuss your skin cancer treatment in more detail. Please give us a call at 212-982-8229 or request an appointment online for a personal consultation at our New York offices.