Expert Care for Skin Cancer at Specialists in Dermatology PLLC
At Specialists in Dermatology PLLC, we are dedicated to providing advanced, compassionate care for patients facing skin cancer. With multiple convenient locations across Tucson, Green Valley, and Benson, our experienced team offers comprehensive treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer arises when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to prolonged sun exposure. The most common types include:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most prevalent form, BCC rarely spreads but can cause local tissue damage if untreated.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC can be more aggressive than BCC and may spread to other body parts.
- Melanoma: A less common but more dangerous cancer that can spread rapidly if not detected early.
Early detection is crucial. Regular skin examinations and awareness of changes in skin lesions are vital for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Our Skin Cancer Treatments
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs surgery is a precise technique that removes skin cancer layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until no abnormal cells remain. This method ensures complete cancer removal while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, making it ideal for sensitive areas like the face, ears, and hands.
Dr. Weimin Katherine Hu, our fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon and member of the American College of Mohs Surgery, leads our surgical team. Her expertise ensures high success rates and optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)
For patients seeking non-surgical options, we offer Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT). SRT delivers low-dose radiation precisely to the affected area, effectively treating non-melanoma skin cancers like BCC and SCC without incisions. Benefits include:
- Non-invasive treatment
- Minimal discomfort
- No scarring
- Quick recovery time
Our state-of-the-art SRT-100+™ system ensures accurate and efficient treatment.
What to Expect During Treatment
Mohs Surgery Process
- Preparation: The area is numbed with local anesthesia.
- Excision: The visible tumor is removed.
- Microscopic Examination: Each tissue layer is examined for cancer cells.
- Repeat as Necessary: Steps 2 and 3 are repeated until no cancer cells are detected.
- Reconstruction: The wound is repaired, often on the same day.
Most procedures are completed within a few hours, and patients can return home the same day.
SRT Treatment Process
- Consultation: Assessment to determine if SRT is appropriate.
- Treatment Sessions: Short, painless sessions administered over several weeks.
- Follow-Up: Regular check-ups to monitor healing and ensure effectiveness.
SRT is especially suitable for patients who prefer a non-surgical approach or have medical conditions that make surgery risky.
Post-Treatment Care
After treatment, our team provides detailed instructions to promote healing and minimize scarring. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor recovery and detect any recurrence early.
Prevention and Early Detection
Preventing skin cancer involves:
- Using broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Wearing protective clothing and hats
- Avoiding peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Performing regular self-examinations
If you notice any new or changing skin lesions, schedule an appointment promptly.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you have concerns about skin cancer or wish to learn more about our treatment options, contact Specialists in Dermatology PLLC today. Our experienced team is here to provide personalized care and support throughout your treatment journey.
Phone: (520) 382-3330
Locations:
- Glenn & Alvernon
- Tucson – Orange Grove
- Green Valley
- Benson
- Tucson – 5th St & Alvernon
Online: Book an Appointment
Your skin health is our priority. Trust Specialists in Dermatology PLLC for expert skin cancer care in Tucson, AZ.
SRT: Superficial Radiation Therapy
SRT is a non-invasive form of radiation therapy that delivers a precise, calibrated low-dose of radiation to the skin and superficial tissue. It is effective in treating non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and various skin conditions. SRT targets cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue, making it an excellent alternative to surgery, especially for facial areas where surgery might leave undesirable cosmetic results.
Mohs Surgery
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, you may be looking for an experienced dermatologist to remove it. Weimin K. Hu, MD, PhD, at Specialists in Dermatology PLLC in Tucson, Arizona, is the co-partner of the practice and has undergone intensive training in Mohs surgery. If you’re concerned about your recent diagnosis of skin cancer or are concerned you have skin cancer, call our office today.
Excision Surgery
At Specialists in Dermatology, PLLC, we treat over one-thousand skin cancer patients annually and strive to provide our patients with the highest care in the management of skin cancer. Dr. Weimin Katherine Hu has had extensive fellowship training in Mohs surgery and has substantial experience in the surgical treatment of all types of skin cancer including melanoma, elevated basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, and various tumors.