BASAL CELL CARCINOMA IN NAGS HEAD, NC
BASAL CELL CARCINOMA
Basal cell carcinomas (BCC) are one of the most common and least aggressive forms of skin cancer. Most basal cell carcinomas just sit on the skin’s surface and grow wider and deeper over time. Rarely can BCC spread more widely under the surface of the skin in a pattern called “sclerosis,” spreading small root-like groups of cells. Basal cell skin cancers do not tend to spread to other organs, such as the lymph nodes or the brain. In general, they are the easiest skin cancer to treat and cure, especially if they are found early. A biopsy is important to determine the subtype of basal cell carcinoma we are dealing with. That biopsy guides us to the best treatment option for each individual case.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS TO BE AWARE OF
- Waxy pink or pearly bump
- Usually arises on sun-exposed skin
- May have a central scab, erosion, or non-healing area
- May look like a pimple or bug bite that just doesn't go away
- It may appear as a patch of eczema or psoriasis that does not show improvement with the use of steroid creams.
RISK FACTORS
- Exposure to UV light from the sun or a tanning bed can increase your lifetime risk. The more exposure you have, the greater the risk.
- Over the age of 50 years
- Fair skin
- Chronic skin inflammation in an area from previous injuries like burns or scars
- History of having previous BCC or other types of skin cancer
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Electrodesiccation and curettage
Electro-desiccation and curettage
$60| 30 min
To remove skin cancer, a small instrument called a curette is used to scrape it out. Then, a device called a hyfrecator is used to denature any remaining cells.
Surgical excision
$80 | 45min
The skin cancer is cut out with a scalpel, and the resulting wound is closed with stitches.
Mohs surgery
$80 | 45min
A special type of skin cancer surgery is used for 1) skin cancers on certain areas of the body, like the head or neck, 2) unusually large skin cancers, 3) sclerotic cell types of BCC, or 4) BCC that has regrown after previous treatments. Mohs surgery requires an in-house histopathology laboratory and a physician with special training and certification in this technique. We, unfortunately, do not offer Mohs surgery at our location, but we have relationships with exceptionally competent Mohs surgeons that we can refer you to if needed.
Other treatments, with creams or radiation, might be recommended on a case-by-case basis. Our dermatologists are specialists in tailoring the most appropriate treatment to the individual BCC lesion based on its size, cell type, location, and other needs of the specific patient.
FAQs
How often should I get a facial?
It is recommended to get a facial once a month.
Can I have a facial before an important event?
Absolutely! Following your facials, you will see a healthy, glowing complexion.
Can I get a facial if I have sensitive skin?
Yes, you can get a facial if you have sensitive skin, but you should consult with a professional to ensure that the facial is tailored to your skin type.
What type of facial should I get?
The type of facial you should get depends on your skin type and concerns. It is best to consult with a professional to determine the best facial for your skin.
Get in touch
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