Skin Cancer in Great Neck, NY

Skin cancer is an intimidating condition no one wants to have, but Dr. Adam Bodian is skilled in diagnosing his Great Neck, NY and surrounding area patients. We recommend having a minimum of a once-yearly total body skin examination. In the event that your diagnosis is melanoma, squamous cell, or basal cell cancer, the staff at Bodian Dermatology is experienced in treating many types of skin cancer. Whether you notice red sores, lumps, a mole, or a rough patch on your skin, we advise having these spots checked out as soon as you see them. Schedule an appointment for a skin exam at Bodian Dermatology so we can determine whether your skin concerns are cancerous.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of cancer with more than one million people diagnosed annually. BCC can develop anywhere on the body and might look like a pink area or as a flesh-colored or pearl-like bump. It is commonly seen on sun-exposed areas, such as the ears, chest, face, and upper back, and can sometimes bleed, crust, or itch. BCC needs to be treated because it has the potential to develop into the bones and nerves, causing damage and disfigurement. When caught early, BCC is simple to treat in our office.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common kind of skin cancer. Forming on skin that gets the most UV exposure, SCC appears as scaly patches, red, firm lumps, wart-like growths, and/or sores that frequently reopen, and may also crust or bleed. These should be eliminated to prevent disfigurement and damage. Usually, we can remove the SCC in our Great Neck, NY office.

Melanoma, which is the most serious kind of skin cancer, grows abruptly as a dark area on the skin. Dr. Bodian uses the ABCDs to detect melanoma — asymmetry, border, color, and diameter. Based on information from the Skin Cancer Foundation, melanoma accounts for just 1% of skin cancer cases but the majority of skin cancer deaths. This is why melanoma needs to be treated quickly once it's diagnosed. Dr. Bodian will recommend removal options, as well as the best course of treatment.

Skin cancer is a concerning condition that can manifest in various forms, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Dr. Adam Bodian and the team at Bodian Dermatology are experts in diagnosing and treating these skin cancer types. The primary cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, commonly from the sun. Basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer, often appears on sun-exposed areas like the ears, chest, face, and upper back. Similarly, squamous cell carcinoma forms on the skin that receives the most UV exposure. Melanoma, the most severe form, can suddenly appear as a dark area on the skin. Regular skin examinations are recommended to catch and treat these cancers early, and patients are advised to schedule an appointment if they notice any suspicious spots or changes in their skin.

Skin cancer risk factors include prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, which significantly increases the likelihood of developing the disease. Fair skin, light hair, and eye color, along with a history of sunburns or excessive sun exposure, heighten this risk. Additionally, individuals with a family history of skin cancer, numerous or atypical moles, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible. Regular exposure to certain chemicals and a history of radiation therapy also contribute to the risk of developing skin cancer.

After Dr. Bodian has performed your skin cancer diagnosis and biopsy, there are multiple ways he can treat it. One method is to remove the cells surgically with medical-grade scraping, freezing, or eliminating the cancer cells by heating the area. Other treatment solutions include superficial radiation therapy (SRT), intense pulsed light therapy (IPL), or Mohs surgery, which involves surgically removing cancerous tissue. Dr. Bodian will create a specially customized treatment plan to meet your specific needs.

Following your skin cancer removal procedure, Dr. Bodian will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions. Since skin cancer care is specialized, the recovery, physical limitations, and follow-up care will vary with each individual. Regardless of the procedure or treatment, Dr. Bodian advises you to schedule follow-up visits so he can monitor your healing and ensure the best outcomes. The compassionate team at Bodian Dermatology is here to help you on your recovery journey so do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns.

What are the early signs of skin cancer?
At Bodian Dermatology, we urge you to look for changes in the size, color, or shape of moles or other skin lesions. Keep an eye out for new growths, sores that don't heal, or itchiness and pain in an existing mole. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.

What types of skin cancer are there?
There are three primary types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each has different characteristics and levels of severity, but all require immediate attention and treatment for the best outcomes.

Can skin cancer be prevented?
While you can't entirely eliminate the risk, you can reduce your chances of getting skin cancer. Regularly use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, avoid tanning beds, and consider wearing protective clothing. Regular skin checks at Bodian Dermatology can also aid in early detection.

Bodian Dermatology is pleased to provide advanced surgical and nonsurgical intervention to treat basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. If you have recently been diagnosed with skin cancer, we welcome you to contact our office in Great Neck, NY to schedule a dermal exam with Dr. Bodian. We will examine your skin and provide you with personalized options to treat your skin cancer.