Persistent sores, scaly patches, or unusual skin growths may signal skin cancer. At Bravo Dermatology, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Monica Bravo diagnoses and treats basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, helping you address suspicious changes promptly.
Detect and Treat Suspicious Skin
Growths Early
Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often because ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages their DNA. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are two common types. BCC typically grows slowly and may appear as a pearly bump or a sore, whereas SCC can develop as a scaly patch, a firm growth, or a lesion that bleeds. Both forms of skin cancer require prompt medical evaluation and treatment.
At Bravo Dermatology, Dr. Bravo examines any suspicious growths and may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. She recommends treatment based on the cancer’s type, size, location, and characteristics. Her approach focuses on removing or treating cancerous tissue while considering your skin’s health, healing, and long-term monitoring needs.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Skin Cancer:
- A sore that doesn’t heal or repeatedly returns
- Pearly, shiny, or translucent bumps
- Pink, red, or skin-colored growths
- Rough, scaly, or crusted patches
- Firm, raised nodules that may grow over time
- Lesions that bleed, ooze, or develop scabs
- Flat, scar-like patches with a waxy appearance
- Persistent redness or irritation in one area
- Growths with rolled or raised edges
- Tenderness, itching, or pain in a suspicious spot
- New or changing growths on sun-exposed skin
- Wart-like lesions with a rough surface
- Darkly pigmented spots that resemble unusual moles
Your Skin Cancer Treatment Options With Dr. Bravo
Your treatment begins with Dr. Bravo examining the suspicious lesion and, when necessary, performing a skin biopsy to confirm whether you have basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), or melanoma. She considers the cancer’s type, size, depth, and location before recommending an appropriate treatment plan.
Surgical Excision
Surgical excision involves removing the cancerous growth along with a margin of the surrounding healthy skin. The tissue is examined to check for remaining cancer cells. Dr. Bravo may recommend this approach for BCCs and SCCs that require complete surgical removal.
Curettage and Electrodesiccation
For small, low-risk skin cancers, Dr. Bravo may recommend curettage and electrodesiccation. This procedure involves scraping away cancerous tissue with a specialized instrument, then using an electrical current to destroy remaining abnormal cells and help control bleeding.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs surgery removes skin cancer in thin layers, with each layer examined microscopically until no cancer cells remain. It may be recommended for high-risk tumors or those in sensitive areas. Dr. Bravo can coordinate referral to a Mohs surgeon when appropriate.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal cells. It may be appropriate for select superficial, low-risk lesions when other treatments aren’t suitable. Dr. Bravo evaluates your diagnosis carefully before determining whether freezing is an appropriate option.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses targeted energy to damage cancer cells and prevent further growth. It may be considered when surgery isn’t suitable or for certain higher-risk cancers. Dr. Bravo can coordinate specialist evaluation when radiation is part of your recommended care.
FAQs
How Do I Know if My Skin Growth Is Cancerous?
You cannot reliably identify skin cancer by appearance alone. Dr. Bravo examines suspicious growths and may recommend a biopsy to confirm whether cancerous cells are present.
Will My Skin Cancer Treatment Leave a Scar?
Some treatments, particularly surgery, can leave scars. Dr. Bravo considers the lesion’s location and appropriate treatment methods to help minimize unnecessary tissue damage.
How Long Will My Skin Take to Heal?
Healing depends on your treatment, lesion size, and location. You may recover within a few weeks, although larger surgical wounds can require longer.
Can I Develop Skin Cancer Again After Treatment?
Yes. Having one skin cancer increases your risk of developing another. Regular examinations help identify new or recurring suspicious lesions.
Schedule Your Consultation for Skin Cancer Treatment in Covington, LA
Early treatment of basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas can help prevent further damage and protect your long-term health. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Monica Bravo understands that every diagnosis brings different concerns. At Bravo Dermatology, she takes time to explain your treatment options, answer your questions, and guide you through your care. Take the next step toward healthier skin by scheduling a skin cancer consultation in Covington, LA, today.
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Personalized Dermatologic Care for Every Stage of
Life, With Dr. Bravo
