Spending time outdoors in the fresh air does wonders for the body and soul, but unfortunately if your skin is not protected, the sun can be harmful. Fortunately, skin cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers.
Annually, more than 3.5 million skin cancers in over 2 million people are diagnosed. Spending time outdoors in the fresh air does wonders for the body and soul, but unfortunately, if your skin is not protected, the sun can be harmful. Fortunately, skin cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers.
One of the most effective ways to treat skin cancer is to completely remove it. Small, non-melanoma skin cancers may not require any treatment other than surgical removal. Other skin cancer treatments depend on the size, depth and location of the cancer.
Different Ways to Remove Skin Cancer:
Mohs surgery, which removes cell growth layer by layer until no abnormal cells remain.
Laser therapy to vaporize growths.
Freezing with liquid nitrogen.
Chemotherapy, which can include topical creams.
Radiation therapy, when surgery is not an option.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT), which uses a combination of drugs and lasers that make cancer cells vulnerable to light.
Electrodessication, which uses a circular blade and an electric need to scrape away and destroy lesions.
“We have made great strides in the treatment of skin cancers,” stated Dr. Dominic M. Castellano, a board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with Florida E.N.T. & Allergy. “But, it is still important to remember that your skin needs extra protection from the sun.”
Regular skin cancer screenings with a dermatologist are advised and are the best way to maximize your chances of early detection and a higher cure rate. For example, melanoma, the deadliest of skin cancers, has a 98% cure rate when detected at an early stage. Our board certified facial plastic surgeons have expertise in removing skin cancers and reconstructing defects following skin cancer treatments.
If you have found a questionable spot on your skin, go to your doctor. While the Florida sun can be wonderful, it is important to always remember to protect yourself.
The specialists at Florida E.N.T. & Allergy have been helping pediatric and adult patients in the Tampa Bay area for more than 40 years. Florida E.N.T. & Allergy offers skin cancer treatment services at several locations conveniently located around the Tampa Bay area.
For more information about Florida E.N.T. & Allergy, visit www.floridaentandallergy.com.
