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Skin Cancer

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the skin. There are three main types of skin cancer:

Melanoma: The most serious form of skin cancer, originating in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early.

Basal Cell Carcinoma: The most common type of skin cancer, typically appearing as a small, raised bump that may bleed or crust. It rarely spreads but can damage surrounding tissue if untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This cancer usually appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat sore with a scaly crust. It can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type but often include:

New Growths: Any new growths on the skin that change in size, shape, or color.

Non-Healing Sores: A sore that doesn’t heal after a few weeks.

Changes in Moles: Irregular borders, changes in color, or bleeding moles.

Red or Pink Nodules: Bumps or growths that are raised, firm, and may bleed or crust over time.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation promptly for further diagnosis.

Causes and Risk Factors​

The primary cause of skin cancer is excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Several factors can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including:

Fair Skin: People with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes are at higher risk.

Frequent Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun, especially without protection, increases the risk.

Tanning Beds: Use of tanning beds significantly raises the risk of skin cancer, particularly melanoma.

Family History: A family history of skin cancer increases the likelihood of developing it.

Diagnosing Skin Cancer

Diagnosing skin cancer typically begins with a visual examination by a doctor, who will inspect any suspicious moles, growths, or skin changes. If a lesion looks concerning, a biopsy will be performed, where a small sample of the skin is removed and analyzed under a microscope to check for cancerous cells. Additional tests, such as dermoscopy or imaging scans, may be used to assess the extent of the cancer if it has spread. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so regular skin checks and prompt evaluation of changes are essential.

Treatments for Skin Cancer

At Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics, we offer advanced surgical options for the removal of skin cancer, focusing on precision and minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.

Excisional Surgery: Excisional surgery is the most common treatment for skin cancer. During this procedure, the cancerous lesion is surgically removed along with some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. This method is effective for treating basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and early-stage melanoma.

Minimally Invasive Techniques: For small or early-stage skin cancers, minimally invasive techniques may be used to minimize scarring and reduce recovery time. These techniques involve smaller incisions and precise removal of cancerous tissue.

Mohs Surgery (Referral if Required): In some cases, we may refer patients to a dermatologist for Mohs surgery, a highly specialized procedure that removes cancerous cells layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until only cancer-free tissue remains.

What Happens If Left Untreated?​

If left untreated, skin cancer can grow and spread to other parts of the body, leading to more serious complications. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, while often slow-growing, can invade nearby tissues and cause disfigurement. Melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, can spread to the lymph nodes and internal organs, becoming life-threatening. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent progression and improve outcomes.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or suspect you may have it, Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.

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