Skin Cancer Treatment in Bellevue, WA
What is Skin Cancer?
The most common form of cancer in humans
The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change in the appearance of the skin, such as a new growth or a sore that will not heal.
The two most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Together, these two are also referred to as nonmelanoma skin cancer. Melanoma is generally the most serious form of skin cancer because it tends to spread (metastasize) throughout the body quickly. Skin cancer is also known as skin neoplasia.
The face, however, remains the most common location for basal cell lesions. Weakening of the immune system, whether by disease or medication, can also promote the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma.
Risk factors:
- Exposure to sun.
- Age
- Exposure to ultraviolet radiation
- Therapeutic radiation
Skin Cancer Treatment
Mohs micrographic surgery is a minor surgical procedure and special method of removing skin cancers using local anesthesia (numbing). The majority of cases are performed in the physician’s office. Mohs is a very precise, highly detailed technique whereby small layers of skin are sequentially removed and immediately examined under the microscope until the samples indicate that the skin cancer is completely removed.
This method removes as little of the healthy normal tissue as possible. Cure rate is very high, exceeding 98%. Mohs micrographic surgery is preferred for large basal cell carcinomas, those that recur after previous treatment, or lesions affecting parts of the face where experience shows that recurrence is common after treatment by other methods.
This type of surgery is done between Dr.Tarbet and a Dermatologist that specializes in Mohs techniques. This is a two day procedure, were the dermatologist does actual removal of the cancers area and then the next day Dr.Tarbet will close the area with either a flap or graft technique. This procedure is done in an out-patient facility.
Schedule Your Skin Cancer Treatment Consultation In Bellevue!
You can learn more about our skin cancer treatment options and whether you are a candidate for care by calling our office today at 425-455-2131! Or, you can fill out the form in our contact page by clicking here. Our practice serves Bellevue, Seattle, and the surrounding Washington areas!
