What You Need to Know About Skin Cancer Surgery
Skin Cancer Surgery Can Save Your Life!
Most people do not realize that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, affecting millions of men and women each year. And anyone who is exposed to the sun – even people in northern locations like Birmingham, MI with cloudy days and short summers – are still very much at risk!
But the good news is that early detection of skin cancer through regular screening can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment – and significantly reduce the risk of severe complications or death from skin cancer. In fact, when skin cancer surgery is performed in the early stages, the survival rate for common types of nonmelanoma skin cancer can be more than 95%!
In this article, top Birmingham, MI skin cancer surgeon Dr. Ali explains the the signs of skin cancer, the types of skin cancer, and how you can decrease your risk with regular skin cancer screening.
Signs of Skin Cancer
Recognizing the signs of skin cancer is essential for early detection and rapid treatment, to prevent the cancer from spreading and becoming disfiguring or even fatal. But skin cancer can present in many unique and various ways, depending on its type, so it can be hard to spot. Common signs of skin cancer may include new growths (spots, moles, bumps), discoloration, raised areas, sores that do not heal, and changes in existing moles or spots that you’ve had for a while.
You should pay particular attention to any skin bumps or lesions that appear pearly, waxy, red, scaly, crusted, or with an uneven or irregular shape. Look for moles or spots that change in size, shape, or color.
The “ABCDE” rule is a helpful guideline for suspecting skin cancer:
- Asymmetry,
- Border irregularity,
- Color variations,
- Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and
- Evolving (changing) over time.
If you notice any of these signs, or if your intuition or “gut” tells you that something on your body doesn’t look or feel right, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation promptly. Skilled and experienced Birmingham, MI plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has evaluated and removed hundreds of skin cancer lesions – and will be happy to offer you a consultation to look at any irregularities on your skin.
Never be afraid or embarrassed to have a suspicious spot looked at! It’s better to be wrong and get a clear bill of health, than to delay until your cancer spreads and causes disfigurement or even death.
Most Common Types of Skin Cancer Requiring Surgery
Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer Surgery
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer requiring surgery. It typically appears on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, neck, and hands. But note, it can also be hiding on the back of the neck or behind the ears where less noticeable sun damage can occur.
Basal cell carcinoma often presents as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat, flesh-colored lesion, or a sore that heals and then reopens. Although basal cell carcinoma grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause significant local damage if left untreated. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent extensive tissue damage.
The earlier skin cancer surgery is performed, the smaller the incisions, and the less chance of noticeable scars or disfigurement.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer Surgery
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer requiring surgery. It often occurs on sun-exposed areas, including the face, ears, neck, and hands. Squamous cell carcinoma can appear as a firm, red nodule, a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface, or a sore that does not heal.
Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma can and often does spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. So early intervention is critical to prevent metastasis and more severe health issues.
Melanoma Skin Cancer Surgery
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, known for its ability to spread rapidly to other organs. It can develop anywhere on the body, even in areas not frequently exposed to the sun. Melanomas often resemble moles and can be black, brown, pink, red, or skin-colored. They may change in appearance, become asymmetrical, have irregular borders, and vary in color. Prompt detection and treatment of melanoma are vital for survival, as advanced melanoma can be life-threatening.
Board certified Birmingham, MI plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed hundreds of skin cancer surgery procedures – and he will be happy to offer you a consultation to look at any irregularities on your skin and discuss your options.
3 Ways to Decrease Risk of Skin Cancer
Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is the most effective way to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves, and stay inside or seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Avoid indoor tanning beds, as they also emit UV radiation that increases the risk of skin cancer.
Annual Skin Cancer Screening
Regular skin cancer screenings by your physician or board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali in Birmingham, MI is absolutely crucial for early detection. An annual skin exam can help identify suspicious lesions or changes in your skin that may indicate cancer. During a screening, your doctor will perform a thorough examination of your skin, looking for any signs of cancer. Early detection through annual skin cancer screenings significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and reduces the risk of severe complications.
Monthly Self-Exam for Skin Cancer
Remember, skin cancer can pop up unexpectedly and grow rapidly, between your annual screening. So, in addition to yearly doctor screenings, conducting monthly self-examinations of your skin can help detect changes early. Use a full-length mirror and a handheld mirror to examine all areas of your body, including hard-to-see places like your back, scalp, behind the eras, and even the soles of your feet. Note any new moles, growths, or changes in existing moles, bumps, or discolorations. Keeping a record of your findings can help you track changes over time and provide valuable information to your doctor – so don’t be afraid to snap a “selfie” of any suspicious spots so that they can be tracked over time.
Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Best Skin Cancer Surgery Results
When it comes to choosing the best skin cancer surgery, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali in Birmingham, MI will typically provide the best results. Plastic surgeons are trained to perform skin cancer surgery in a way that removes cancerous lesions with precision, while also minimizing scarring, and ensuring aesthetically pleasing outcomes.
Unlike general surgeons or dermatologic surgeons, plastic surgeons focus on both the effective removal of cancer and the cosmetic aspects of reconstruction in a single skin cancer surgery. This approach reduces the need for additional reconstruction or repair surgery after the removal surgery – and helps minimize scarring and maintain the natural appearance of the skin.
Best Skin Cancer Surgery | Birmingham, MI
Regular skin cancer screening, and prompt skin cancer surgery when indicated by biopsy, can truly save your life. Understanding the signs of skin cancer, the different types, and ways to reduce your risk are essential components of skin health management.
If you have a suspicious legion skilled and experienced Birmingham, MI plastic surgeon Dr. Ali will be happy to offer you a consultation to look at any irregularities on your skin – and explain your options for the best skin cancer surgery procedures if necessary.
And if your doctor or dermatologist has already conducted a biopsy that indicates you require skin cancer surgery, consult with a top board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali in Birmingham, MI to ensure you receive the best skin cancer surgery results, while also ensuring the most beautiful and natural looking post-surgery appearance.
