Hearing the words “skin cancer” is daunting, but that doesn’t mean facing it alone or without a plan. At Rocky Mountain Dermatology in North Logan, Utah, dermatologist Dr. Robert Young and Mohs surgeon Dr. Blake Steele provide patients with proven treatments for each type and stage of skin cancer. Understanding what’s available can help you feel more prepared and confident about your next steps.

Understanding The Different Types Of Skin Cancer

Before treatment is recommended, it’s important to identify the specific kind of skin cancer. The most common types include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each behaves differently and requires a different approach. That’s why an accurate diagnosis from a dermatologist is the first step in making a smart treatment decision.

Surgical Excision: A Reliable Standard

For many non-melanoma skin cancers, surgical excision is a straightforward solution. This involves removing the cancerous tissue along with a small margin of healthy skin to ensure all abnormal cells are cleared. Dr. Robert Young frequently performs this treatment at Rocky Mountain Dermatology, offering precise care designed to minimize scarring and the risk of recurrence.

Mohs Surgery For Precise Removal

When skin cancer is located on sensitive areas like the face, ears, or hands, or when complete removal is especially important, Mohs surgery is often the treatment of choice. Performed by Dr. Blake Steele at our North Logan, Utah, location, Mohs surgery removes thin layers of skin one at a time, checking each layer under a microscope until no cancer cells remain. This method offers the highest cure rate while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Topical Treatments For Early-Stage Cases

Not all skin cancer treatments require surgery. For some very early-stage basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas, topical medications may be used. These prescription creams work by encouraging the body’s immune system to fight off abnormal cells or by directly destroying cancerous tissue over time. It’s a slower process, but can be ideal for certain patients and cancer locations.

Radiation Therapy As An Alternative

In cases when surgery isn’t possible or practical, we might recommend radiation therapy. While not as common as surgical methods, radiation can treat some skin cancers, especially in older adults or those with medical conditions that make surgery riskier.

Ongoing Care And Monitoring

Follow-up care is an important part of our practice. Dr. Young and Dr. Steele stress the importance of regular skin checks, since having one skin cancer increases the risk of developing another. Monitoring ensures any new changes are caught early, keeping future treatments simpler.

Make an Informed Choice for Your Skin Cancer Treatment

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to treating skin cancer. At Rocky Mountain Dermatology in North Logan, Utah, Dr. Robert Young and Dr. Blake Steele strive to provide clear communication and patient-centered care. Whether it’s a minor excision or Mohs surgery, the goal is effective treatment with as little disruption as possible to your daily life. If you’re facing a skin cancer diagnosis or have concerns about a spot that doesn’t look right, schedule a consultation by calling 435-787-0560.