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Services / Skin Cancer Treatment

Skin Cancer Treatment

Expert diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, including Mohs micrographic surgery, by board-certified dermatologists & fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons across the central & southern U.S.

From suspicious moles and precancerous lesions to confirmed skin cancers, you'll receive prompt, compassionate care at DOCS Dermatology Group partner practices. Many locations offer Mohs micrographic surgery, the gold standard for treating basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. Our dermatologists and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons diagnose and treat the full spectrum of skin cancers and precancerous lesions. Early evaluation is essential for the best outcomes, and suspicious spots are assessed using dermoscopy, biopsy, and expert clinical judgment to ensure accurate, timely diagnosis. We commonly treat:

Actinic keratoses (AKs): Precancerous lesions caused by chronic sun damage

Atypical or dysplastic moles: Irregular moles that may require monitoring or removal

Rare skin cancers: Merkel cell carcinoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), and other uncommon malignancies

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer; often appears as a pearly bump, pink patch, or non-healing spot

Melanoma: The most serious form of skin cancer, marked by changes in size, shape, or color of a mole

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): A more aggressive but highly treatable cancer that may appear scaly, crusted, or tender

Common skin cancer treatments:

"Your board-certified dermatologist will create a personalized treatment plan based on the type, size, depth, and location of the cancer, as well as your medical history and cosmetic goals. Skin cancer treatment options or treatment options for precancerous lesions may include:"

Cryotherapy: Freezing precancerous actinic keratoses or superficial lesions with liquid nitrogen.

Electrodesiccation & curettage (ED&C): A quick treatment that removes superficial BCC or SCC using scraping and cautery.

Excisional Surgery: A minor surgical procedure that removes melanoma, certain non-melanoma skin cancers, cysts, lipomas, and atypical moles. Performed with local anesthesia and closed with sutures.

Mohs micrographic surgery: A precise, layer-by-layer technique that removes cancerous tissue while sparing as much healthy skin as possible.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT): A light-activated treatment for actinic keratoses and widespread sun damage.

Superficial radiation therapy (SRT): A non-surgical, low-dose radiation option for some non-melanoma skin cancers—ideal for patients who are not surgical candidates.

When should you get a mole or lesion evaluated by a dermatologist?

Annual full-body skin exams can catch precancerous changes and skin cancers early, when they are easiest to treat.

Schedule a skin check immediately if you notice:

  • A mole or spot that changes in size, color, or shape
  • A new growth that looks different from your other moles
  • A sore or lesion that does not heal within 4–6 weeks
  • A scaly or rough patch that persists or bleeds
  • A pink, pearly, or translucent bump
  • A rapidly growing or tender spot
  • A lesion that repeatedly crusts over, bleeds, or scabs

You should also see a dermatologist if you have:

  • A personal or family history of skin cancer
  • Fair skin, light eyes, or a history of severe sunburns
  • Frequent sun exposure or tanning bed use
  • A large number of moles or atypical moles

Early detection saves lives, particularly in cases of melanoma. Learn more about skin checks at your nearest DOCS Dermatology Group partner location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of skin cancer do dermatologists diagnose and treat?
Board-certified dermatologists treat the full range of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma, actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions), atypical or dysplastic moles, and rare skin cancers such as Merkel cell carcinoma and DFSP.
What skin cancer treatment options are available?
Treatment depends on the type, size, depth, and location of the cancer. Options may include Mohs micrographic surgery, standard surgical excision, electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C), cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), superficial radiation therapy (SRT), or close monitoring for certain precancerous lesions.
How do dermatologists decide which treatment is right for me?
Your dermatologist considers multiple factors, including the specific diagnosis, tumor characteristics, your medical history, cosmetic concerns, and overall health to create a personalized treatment plan.
Is skin cancer treatment painful?
Most skin cancer treatments are performed with local anesthesia and cause minimal discomfort. After treatment, mild soreness, swelling, or tenderness is common and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
How long does recovery take after skin cancer treatment?
Recovery varies based on the treatment and location of the lesion. Many patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours, while surgical sites may take 1–2 weeks or longer to fully heal.
How do dermatologists diagnose skin cancer?
Diagnosis starts with a comprehensive skin exam and dermoscopy. If a lesion looks suspicious, a biopsy is performed to confirm whether cancer is present and determine the type.
When should I schedule a skin cancer screening?
Most adults should have a full-body skin exam once a year. You should schedule an appointment sooner if you notice changing moles, new growths, non-healing sores, or lesions that bleed, crust, or scab repeatedly.
What is Mohs surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique that removes skin cancer with the highest cure rate while preserving healthy surrounding tissue. It is especially effective for Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) on the face, neck, or other sensitive areas.
Do I need a referral for Mohs surgery?
Many patients do not require a referral; however, some insurance plans do. Our team can help confirm your benefits and determine whether a referral is needed.
How do I find a DOCS Dermatology Group skin cancer specialist near me?
To find a DOCS Dermatology Group provider near you, use our provider search tool or click the "Find a Dermatology Location Near Me" button to locate board-certified dermatologists at DOCS Dermatology Group clinics or partner practices across the central and southern U.S., including Ohio, Michigan, North Carolina, Illinois, Texas, and more. Filter by specialty, service, or zip code to schedule a consultation at a location near you.
Do all locations offer the same services?
No, not every service is offered at every location. Call your nearest DOCS Dermatology or partner practice location to see if they offer the service you're looking for.
Can skin cancer come back after treatment?
Yes, especially if you've had skin cancer before. Regular skin checks and daily sun protection significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
What is the ABCDE rule for melanoma?
ABCDE stands for Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over 6 mm, and Evolving—these are key signs that a mole may be cancerous.
How often should I get a skin cancer screening?
The recommendation is yearly full-body skin exams, but those with risk factors may need more frequent visits.
Are all skin cancers treated surgically?
No. While surgery is common, some skin cancers and precancerous lesions can be treated with non-surgical options such as cryotherapy, topical therapies, photodynamic therapy, or radiation, depending on the diagnosis.

Prioritize your skin health
with expert dermatology care.

Our board-certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons, cosmetic dermatology providers, and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons provide best-in-class treatment for all your skin health needs.

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