Cancerous growths, such as basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer, and malignant melanoma are all treated at the clinic.

Treatment options include laser surgery, destruction of the tumor with an electric needle, scalpel excision, or Mohs micrographic surgery (which involves microscopically tracing out the tumor as it is removed, layer by layer).

Treatments are designed to promote complete healing and to minimize scarring.

Dr. West performs all surgeries. The clinic also offers all a full program of diagnostic services and skin-cancer prevention techniques and recommendations.

It is important to monitor your body and the skin of your family members for early signs of skin cancer. Most skin cancers occur on sun-exposed areas of the skin, particularly the head, neck, forearms and hands, but skin cancer can develop on any area of the body.

Signs to look for are moles, sores or skin discolorations that begin to change in appearance, or any sore that appears and does not heal properly. Check you body frequently for any of these signs, and also check the skin condition of your spouse, children, and other family members. See your dermatologist promptly if you note any skin change.

There are three common types of skin cancer:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

• Most common type of skin cancer
• Curable, if treated early
• Usually appears on face, scalp, ears, lips and around the mouth
• Usually first shows as a red patch, bump or ulceration
  
  

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

• Second most common skin cancer
  
• Easily curable, if treated early
  
• Usually appears as a red, scaly patch or bum on sun-exposed area of the skin
  
  

Malignant Melanoma

• Rarest but most dangerous form of skin cancer
• Curable, if detected and treated early
• Usually appears as a changing mole
• Usually appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin (but may develop anywhere on the body)
  

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SKIN PROTECTION TIPS FROM THE AAD

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following eight precautions to lessen the chance of developing skin cancer:

1. MINIMIZE SUN EXPOSURE, especially during the peak sun hours between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM when the sun’s rays are the most intense
   
   
2. APPLY SUNSCREEN LIBERALLY AND FREQUENTLY, and reapply every two hours when working, playing or exercising outdoors. Sunscreens with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 are recommended for protection against skin cancer and premature aging of the skin. Even on cloudy days, this precaution should be followed.
   
   
3. WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHING during prolonged periods in the sun, including a hat, a long-sleeved shirt, and full-length pants (not shorts).
   
   
4. BEWARE OF REFLECTIVE SURFACES such as sand, snow, concrete and water, which can reflect up to 85% of the sun’s damaging rays.
   
   
5. AVOID TANNING SALONS AND SUNLAMPS, since the ultraviolet rays emitted by these artificial sources are similar to those in sunlight and can cause sunburn, premature aging of the skin, and increased risk of skin cancer.
   
   
6. PROTECT CHILDREN by keeping them out of the sun or minimizing sun exposure and by applying sunscreens frequently, beginning at six months of age.
   
   
7. TEACH CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS SUN PROTECTION, since sun exposure damage accumulates over the course of a lifetime. One severe childhood or adolescent sunburn will double the risks of developing skin cancer.
   
   
8. EXAMINE YOUR SKIN AND YOUR CHILDREN’S REGULARLY for any changes in moles, freckles, or skin discoloration.