According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 500,000 new cases are reported each year. The incidence is rising faster than any other type of cancer. While skin cancers can be found on any part of the body, about 80% appear on the face, head or neck, where they can be disfiguring as well as dangerous.

The most common skin cancers are:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma: 80–85% of all skin cancers. Affects cells in the lowest layer of the epidermis.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: 10% of all skin cancers. Affects cells in the middle layer of the epidermis.
• Melanoma: 5% of all skin cancers. The leading cause of death from skin disease.

Surgical excision, used to treat all types of skin cancer, offers results that are both medically and cosmetically pleasing.

When the cancer is small, the procedure can be done quickly and easily with local anesthesia in our outpatient facility. It may be a simple excision, which usually leaves a thin, barely visible scar. In some instances, curettage and desiccation may be used: the cancer is scraped out with an electric current to control bleeding and kill remaining cancer cells. This leaves a slightly larger, white scar. In either case, the risks of surgery are low.

When the cancer is large, or if it spreads to the lymph glands or elsewhere, major surgery may be required. Other possible treatments include cryosurgery (freezing the cancer cells), radiation therapy (using X-rays), topical chemotherapy (anticancer drugs applied to the skin) and laser surgery.

After your treatment, Dr. Geroulis will schedule regular follow-up visits to make sure the cancer hasn't recurred. Although he can't prevent a recurrence, he will teach you to replace old, risky habits with preventive measures. These sessions cover items such as:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially between 10:00 A.M. and 2:00 P.M., and during the summer months. Remember: ultraviolet rays pass through water and clouds and are reflected by sand and snow.
• When you’re outside for an extended period, wear protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves.
• Use a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15 on exposed skin. Reapply it frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Examine your skin regularly. If you find anything suspicious, consult a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist as soon as possible.