The Health of Your Skin Demands the Best: FAQs about the importance of specialty skin cancer care
While skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., it is also highly preventable, and “cure” rates approach a staggering 99% when detected and treated in its earliest stages, before the cancer has spread or metastasized. When dealing with such potentially serious conditions, it is essential to put your trust in the hands of a highly qualified board-certified medical dermatology specialist like our own Dr. Huayi Zhang of Bluebonnet Dermatology in McKinney, Texas.
How do I prevent skin cancer ?
This is the key. Instead of treatment, we want to get you into a healthy, proactive routine. That means Dr. Zhang can advise on everything from the most effective sunscreens to the proper application of these products and sun avoidance measures to reduce your risk and to keep your skin healthy (not to mention looking great). Remember: There is no such thing as a “healthy tan.”
How do I know if I have skin cancer ?
Routine professional screenings are key. Similar to scheduling your annual physical examination with your family physician, visiting us at least once a year for a professional skin check is equally important. Depending on your risk factors, we may recommend even more frequent exams – once every six months or so. During these visits, Dr. Zhang can also advise on ways to conduct “self-checks” at home.
What do I need to look for ?
Do not wait to contact us if you notice a mole or spot that is “ugly” and stands out from other moles or markings on the skin. It may stand out due to its many colors or its comparatively extreme size. It may also have irregular borders. Changes to how the spot feels are also red flags; for instance, it may be painful or suddenly itch and bleed.
How do you treat skin cancers ?
That depends on the type and “staging” of the cancer. Basal cell carcinomas start in the lower part of the epidermis, whereas squamous cell carcinomas affect the upper part of the epidermis. Treatment for these skin cancers generally involves surgery (excision or cutting out the cancer), cryotherapy, chemical peels, and cauterization. We will, of course, discuss these options as appropriate. When in the hands of a skilled specialist like Dr. Zhang, a successful “cure” of the cancer is possible, and the risks of scarring or lasting reminders of the cancer are also minimized. She is also adept at successfully treating melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.
How is melanoma treated ?
Performing surgery at an early stage is essential, underscoring the importance of early detection and routine screening. We prevent the metastasis or spread of this potentially life-threatening cancer by cutting out the malignant or cancerous cells in the pigment-producing melanocytes/cells.
Why should I choose Bluebonnet Dermatology ?
As a board-certified medical dermatologist, Dr. Zhang has extensive and advanced training to treat even challenging and recurrent skin cancers. With her level of skill, most of our patients from McKinney, TX, and beyond experience a full recovery with minimal scarring and get back to their healthy and happy lives with a new lease on life. Do not trust just anyone for something so crucial as skin cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Call (469) 663-5777 with more questions and to schedule your screening today.
