Surgical Dermatology
Surgical procedures are often necessary for the removal of both benign and cancerous growths. At School Street, our surgical procedures are done in an outpatient setting with an emphasis on providing the most comfortable experience possible. Our years of specialized training and understanding of the skin healing process ensures the best outcomes for our patients.
Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis (also called solar keratosis) can appear in a many ways, and most people who develop actinic keratosis (AK) in one area are likely to develop multiple AKs. Actinic keratoses may appear as a patch of skin that is rough, painful when touched or rubbed, itches, or burns. It’s common that AKs may come and go, but it is still important that if you think you have AK to consultant our office, as AK can be precancerous. We have the expertise to help monitor your actinic keratosis and help you find a treatment specially tailored for your needs.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically appears on areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure such as the head, face, neck, and hands. BCC is caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or from time spent in a tanning bed.
People who’ve developed BCC previously should be especially attentive to their skin, as your risk of developing it a second time increases by 40%. Be on the look out for any raised, shiny, or waxy growths or sores that ooze, bleed easily, or refuse to heal in the long term.
Though this type of cancer grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, treatment is highly important as basal cell carcinoma can grow large and deep enough to destroy skin, tissue, and bone. If you have any concern that you may have developed a type of skin cancer, make an appointment as soon as possible.
Malignant Melanoma
The most deadly form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma is caused by unrepaired damage to cells that prompt cancerous growths. Melanoma is often caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation and often being in the deepest layer of the skin, where pigment is produced. Often appearing like or developing from moles, melanoma is often black or brown, but could appear as a variety of other colors as well. When caught early, melanoma is quite treatable, but it can advance and spread throughout the body, if left untreated.
It is imperative that you be seen for any unusual mole or mark on your skin, especially on places that are frequently exposed to the sun. If you notice changes on your skin that you think maybe melanoma, contact us immediately to schedule an examination and explore possible treatment options. We give patients who are concerned about skin cancer and melanoma priority when scheduling appointments.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
A common form of cancer, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is characterized by uninhibited growth of cells in the epidermis (or the skin’s outer layers). SCC typically appears as open sores, elevated growths, scaly red patches, and warts that may crust or bleed. The number of cases of SCC has increased 200% in the last three decades, in the United States. Typically caused by exposure to the ultraviolet light, SCC may occur anywhere on the body but is most common on the ears, lips, face, neck, hands, arms, and legs. Please contact our office for any suspected skin cancer, as early treatment can make a big difference for recovery.