Restoring health and appearance

Plastic surgeons have devoted a significant amount of their practice to caring for patients diagnosed with skin cancer. In fact, treatment of skin cancer is the most common reconstructive procedure performed by plastic surgeons. 

Your highly-trained Crystal Clinic Plastic Surgeons specialist can evaluate and remove suspected skin cancers, as well as expertly repair any deformities that may result from skin cancer or its treatment. It’s a valuable combination considering most skin cancers appear on highly visible parts of the body. 

After careful evaluation of your skin, your Crystal Clinic surgeon may recommend a biopsy of a suspicious area or mole. A biopsy typically involves removal of part or all of the lesion in question in a simple, painless procedure performed right in the office. The removed specimen is then sent to a lab for further evaluation and to confirm that all cancer, if present, has been removed. Once lab results are known, additional recommendations are made if further treatment is required. 

Crystal Clinic Plastic Surgeons has expertise to address virtually all varieties of skin cancer, including:  

Basal Cell:
The most common form of skin cancer, basal cell is typically self-contained and does not spread to other areas of the body. It can, however, destroy normal healthy tissue. Fortunately, when treated early, the cure rate is 98 percent. Suspect basal cell skin cancer if an open sore develops and doesn’t heal in two weeks, or if an area of skin bleeds easily. These cancers can be treated with surgery or radiation therapy and, in extensive cases, both.  

Squamous Cell:
Squamous cell cancer is the second most common form of skin cancer. Unlike basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer can spread to the lymph glands and other areas of the body, especially when detected late. Squamous cell cancer is often preceded by a pre-malignant condition known as actinic keratosis, which appears as red, scaly patches of skin that can be treated by freezing or with topical creams to prevent it from advancing on to skin cancer. 

Melanoma:
Melanoma accounts for more than 85-percent of all skin cancer-related deaths. Sadly, melanoma continues to be diagnosed at an alarming rate of frequency, with one in every 75 Americans now projected to be diagnosed. Fortunately, the survival rate when detected and treated early is 95 percent. If you have a mole that is asymmetric in shape, has a scalloped or irregular border, is uneven in color or has changed color, or is larger in diameter than a pencil eraser (6mm), make an appointment to be evaluated. 

Merkel Cell Carcinoma: 
Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare, but fast-growing form of skin cancer most commonly found among older populations, especially those having had extensive sun exposure and/or a weakened immune system. It appears most commonly as a rapid-growing, painless growth on the face, head or neck, and may be flesh-colored or have shades of red, blue or purple. If you see a mole, freckle or bump on your skin that has been changing in size, shape or color, schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.  

If you suspect that you may have skin cancer, why not sit down with your Crystal Clinic Plastic Surgeons specialist for a personal consultation? Together, you will discuss your condition, your options, and any concerns or questions you may have.  

The first step is to schedule an appointment.