Skin Cancer

Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center

Dermatologists & Mohs Surgery located in Elgin, Huntley & Crystal Lake, IL

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five Americans will have skin cancer in their lifetime. Because of this staggering number, prevention and treatment of skin cancer is the main focus of the team at Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center in Elgin, Huntley, Crystal Lake, and Fox Lake, Illinois. And should you develop the disease, the providers are fully committed to making sure your skin cancer diagnosis has the best outcome possible. For an expert skin cancer screening and consultation, call or book an appointment online today.

Skin Cancer Q & A

What Causes Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is an excessive growth of skin cells on the surface of the body, typically caused by exposure to sunlight or UV rays from other sources, like tanning beds. While most skin cancers are found in areas typically exposed to sunlight, the most common forms — basal and squamous cell carcinoma — can be found in unexposed areas as well.

What are the Types of Skin Cancer?

There are several types of skin cancer. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types, and both have a high cure rate with early detection and treatment. Melanoma is the most dangerous type, as it can spread quickly if left untreated; however, even melanoma has a high survival rate when caught and treated early.

What Can I Do to Prevent Skin Cancer?

When it comes to skin cancer, prevention is key. Your dermatology team at Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center are committed to equipping you with the tools and knowledge to protect yourself against this condition.

Protect yourself and your family with the following tips:

Avoid excessive sun exposure
Use 30 SPF or greater sunscreen
Avoid tanning beds
Cover your sun-exposed skin
Get regular skin and mole checks
Check your skin regularly for changes

When you check your skin, you should look for changes in color, shape, and size of any suspicious areas, especially areas that are regularly exposed to sunshine.

What Treatments are Available for Skin Cancer?

The experts at Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center offer a number of services to help prevent and treat skin cancer, such as:

Mohs surgery: a tissue-sparing procedure that removes cancerous tissue a layer at a time
Excision surgery: the cutting out of cancerous tissue and its roots
Photodynamic therapy: the use of light waves to destroy cancer cells
Cryotherapy: the use of cold temperatures to remove kill cancer cells
Radiation: the use of radioactive waves to kill cancerous tissues
Chemotherapy: the use of medications that destroy cancer cells

After a thorough exam, the team members work with you to create a plan of care that is specific to you and your type of skin cancer.

What we offer