17
Jun
What Are My Skin Cancer Treatment Options? 7 Approaches You Can Take
Receiving a skin cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but rest assured there are a variety of effective treatments available. At Kirsch Dermatology in Naples, Florida, our board-certified team tailors each plan to the type, stage, and location of your skin cancer. Here are a few of the most common treatment recommendations.
- Surgical Excision
We remove the lesion along with a margin of healthy tissue in one precise procedure. This is often the first choice for localized basal and squamous cell carcinomas, ensuring complete removal while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Recovery is generally smooth, and this method often results in minimal scarring when performed by experienced hands.
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Considered the gold standard for high-risk or recurrent skin cancers, Mohs surgery involves layer-by-layer removal and microscopic examination of tissue until no cancer cells remain. It offers the highest cure rate with maximal tissue conservation. This is particularly beneficial for skin cancers located on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the nose, eyelids, ears, and lips, where preserving healthy tissue is crucial.
- Radiation Therapy
For larger or deeper tumors where surgery may not be ideal—or for patients who prefer a non-surgical option—radiation therapy can be highly effective. This method uses focused energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells, sparing much of the surrounding skin. Radiation is typically administered over several sessions and may be recommended for elderly patients or those with complex medical conditions.
- Cryotherapy
Utilizing liquid nitrogen to freeze and eradicate superficial lesions, cryotherapy is a quick in-office treatment well suited for small, early-stage non-melanoma skin cancers. The treated area forms a scab and eventually heals over the course of a few weeks. It’s a convenient, cost-effective method that requires no incisions or downtime.
- Topical Treatments
Prescription creams or gels—such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or imiquimod—can be applied directly to the affected skin. These medications either stimulate the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells or block their growth and replication. Topicals are typically used for actinic keratoses or very early-stage non-melanoma cancers and are especially helpful in treating larger surface areas or patients with multiple lesions.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
This innovative treatment combines a light-sensitizing agent with a special light source to destroy abnormal cells. It’s commonly used for actinic keratoses and some superficial basal cell carcinomas. PDT is a non-invasive option with cosmetic benefits—it preserves healthy surrounding tissue and leaves minimal scarring. Patients usually experience mild redness and peeling, similar to a sunburn, which resolves within a few days.
- Targeted Therapy for Advanced Cases
Targeted therapies can be life-changing for advanced, aggressive, or metastatic skin cancers—particularly melanoma. These medications are designed to interfere with specific genetic mutations or cellular pathways that fuel cancer growth. Delivered orally or intravenously, they are often part of a coordinated treatment plan between dermatologists and oncologists. Targeted therapies may also be combined with immunotherapies for more robust results.
How Do I Know Which Treatment Is Right for Me?
Your ideal treatment depends on your cancer’s type, size, location, and your overall health. During your consultation at Kirsch Dermatology, we’ll review your biopsy results, discuss the benefits and risks of each option, and create a personalized plan that balances medical effectiveness with your comfort and cosmetic outcomes.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer and live in the Naples area, call Kirsch Dermatology at (239) 300-9767 to schedule your consultation. You can find us at 1012 Goodlette-Frank Road North, Suite 100. Let us guide you on the path to healthier skin!
