Dermatology & Skin Cancer

Skin cancer has become so common that it is diagnosed more often than any other type of cancer in the United States. A common fact mentioned in our office is that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Fortunately, early screening and detection can guarantee the success of your treatment. Cancer screening, preventative treatment strategies, and plastic surgery with cure and cosmetic outcome top of mind are available at the state-of-the-art medical practice, Dermatology + Plastic Surgery, led by board-certified dermatologist Anita Saluja, MD and double board-certified plastic surgeon Rebecca Novo, MD, and serving residents of Melbourne, Indialantic, Viera, Brevard County, the beaches, and nearby communities in the Central Florida area. 

HOW DANGEROUS IS SKIN CANCER?

Skin cancer may be easily diagnosed and treated successfully with early detection.
Skin cancer develops as an uncontrolled cluster of abnormal skin cells that begin to grow and reproduce when triggered by DNA damage caused by such things as excessive sun exposure or other free radicals, pollutants, certain medications, or irritants. There is also a genetic component. There are different types of skin cancer with some being more aggressive than others. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form.

EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF SKIN CANCER & MELANOMA – ABCDE GUIDELINES

You can use these simple ABCDE guidelines to note any potentially dangerous mole or growth on your skin, and seek skin cancer screening immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Asymmetry. The mole or growth is not symmetrical.
• Border. The mole or growth has a border that is jagged or blurry.
• Color. The color has changed over time, or a mole contains various colors. A PINK color that persists longer than 4 weeks should be professionally examined.
• Diameter. The mole or growth is larger than 1/4 inch in diameter or is small but growing in size
• Evolving. The mole or growth is changing over time.

If you have any moles that fit the ABCDE description, please call for an appointment. It is normal to develop more moles over a lifetime. Be sure to keep an eye on any new “ugly duckling” moles that develop on your skin – These are moles that do not fit into your general type of mole and can be more worrisome. For more information, visit: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer?

IF YOU HAVE MELANOMA, DR. SALUJA RECOMMENDS:

https://www.nccn.org/patients/guidelines/cancers.aspx#melanoma

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TYPES OF SKIN CANCER

There are multiple types of skin cancer, and each type is named for the affected cells that become malignant in the disease. The three types are:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma
• Malignant Melanoma

• Actinic keratosis (AK), also called solar keratosis, scaly, crusty growths caused by damage from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can also develop on the skin’s surface and require treatment.

WHAT FACTORS INCREASE THE RISK OF SKIN CANCER?

Although causes of skin cancer are unknown, it has been proven that certain factors increase a person’s risk of developing skin cancer including:

• Frequent regular use of tanning booths or sun lamps
• A history of frequent serious sunburn
• Excessive sun exposure during childhood and youth
• A history of skin cancer in your family
• A lifestyle that includes excessive exposure to sunlight
• A tendency toward birthmarks, freckles or moles
• Fair skin that tends to sunburn easily
• Light-colored, green or blue eyes
• Naturally blonde or red hair and fair skin
• Smoker
• Immune suppressing medication

WHEN SHOULD I BE SCREENED FOR SKIN CANCER?

Any time you notice a growth or mole on your skin that fits the ABCDE description, you should immediately begin the screening process, obtain a biopsy, and determine if the tissue is malignant. The biopsy will also identify what type of cancer it is, and this will determine the most appropriate course of treatment.  A biopsy is a simple in-office procedure that is done with your safety and comfort top of mind.

A note on skin cancer screening: It is best to remove all of your clothes for a total body skin exam. The doctors don’t have X-ray vision! Move your hair out of the way and take off your jewelry, watches, and shoes. Of course, coming makeup free is best, too.

WHAT TYPES OF TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR SKIN CANCER?

The most important step in treating any type of cancer is early detection. Our skin cancer treatments include skin cancer surgery, mole removal, topical medications and frozen section surgery or Mohs surgery. Some cases may require superficial radiation therapy or consultation with an oncologist or oncologist surgeon, Drs. Saluja and Novo take skin cancer very seriously, and it is our commitment to you to treat your skin cancer with the goal of cure. It is also our commitment to discuss options for proactive measures and treatments that can be done to decrease the risk of skin cancer such as medical grade sunblock, antioxidants specifically tested for this reason, and laser treatments for high-risk areas.

DOES INSURANCE COVER TREATMENTS FOR SKIN CANCER?

Fortunately, in most cases, health insurance does cover part or all of the cost of skin cancer treatment. For costs not covered by insurance, we offer various payment options. Self-pay patients are welcome.

If you see a growth or mole that looks worrisome, early screening and treatment is essential. Comprehensive screening, surgery, and treatment for skin cancer are provided at Dermatology + Plastic Surgery, led by board-certified dermatologist Anita Saluja MD and double board-certified plastic surgeon Rebecca Novo, MD, serving residents of Melbourne, Indialantic, Viera, Brevard County, the beaches, and nearby communities in the Central Florida area. Contact us now!

CREATING LIFELONG RELATIONSHIPS With Our Patients

READ MORE REVIEWS

   “The best dermatologist office! I love all the staff at Dermatology + Plastic Surgery! They are all so nice and helpful! I have seen Beth, PA for my skin scan for 5 years now.  I trust her medical judgement and thoroughness. I recommended friends and family to this practice. Long time patient!”

   “Went in for a spot check with Brittany today and it was simple and quick.  She was very knowledgeable and informative.  The biopsy was painless and Brittany made me feel very comfortable throughout.  Highly recommended.”

The teams at both locations are warm, friendly and knowledgeable.. From a client perspective, they’ve really perfected the entire patient experience. Starting with first interaction, following with time taken to answer questions and finishing with repeated follow ups from the team. Both spaces (Melbourne and Indiatlantic) are impeccably designed, clean, comfortable and beautiful. Highly recommend

Dr. Saluja and staff members are nothing but the best. I’ve been receiving Botox and fillers for almost two years now and the results never fail to impress me. I always recommend to anybody and everybody!

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Fill out the form below or call us at (321) 395-3298 to schedule your custom consultation.

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Dermatologist Dr. Anita Saluja and plastic surgeon Dr. Rebecca Novo have created an online shop for your convenience. They have curated scientific skin care products that they believe will deliver results: For Your Best Self. And you can always contact our office with any questions.

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