Top Skin Cancer Surgery Treatment in Tarzana

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers and affects more than 3.3 million Americans every year.  Each year there are more new cases of skin cancer than the combined incidence of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon.

Over the past three decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined.  One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime.  Between 40 and 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have either basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma at least once.

Skin cancer is a growth on the skin that occurs when cells grow abnormally. It occurs most commonly on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, like the neck, arms, and face. It is essential to address any abnormal growths or unusual moles on the skin as soon as they are detected to prevent a potentially life-threatening form of cancer. Seeking skin cancer surgery in Tarzana early greatly improves treatment success and cosmetic outcomes.

There are three main types of skin cancers.  Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Malignant Melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer. More than 4 million cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer, with more than 1 million cases diagnosed annually. Fortunately, non-melanoma cancers rarely spread to other parts of the body. They are highly treatable and curable if detected early with proper surgical dermatology treatment in Tarzana.

Melanoma accounts for less than one percent of skin cancer cases, but the vast majority of skin cancer deaths.  One person dies of melanoma every hour (every 54 minutes).  An estimated 87,110 new cases of invasive melanoma will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2017.  An estimated 9,730 people will die of melanoma in 2017.

The vast majority of melanomas are caused by the sun. It starts in the melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment. Individuals with fair skin are at higher risk. Additionally, people with abnormal moles, a large number of moles, or a history of severe sunburns are more likely to develop melanoma. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, about 86 percent of melanomas can be attributed to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

On average, a person’s risk for melanoma doubles if he or she has had more than five sunburns.

Regular daily use of an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen reduces the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by about 40 percent and the risk of developing melanoma by 50 percent.

All types of skin cancer are more likely to be successfully treated if detected early. Signs include any change in the appearance of moles or any new growths on the skin; scaliness, bleeding or oozing of skin bumps; or any itchiness, tenderness or pain of the skin.

Routine annual skin exam by a Dermatologist is considered essential and the most proven method in early detection and early treatment of all kinds of skin cancers.

At Castle Dermatology Institute, Dr. Peyman Ghasri and Dr. Pedram Ghasri are fully trained in detection as well as advanced skin cancer treatment in Tarzana. Both doctors focus not only on complete cancer removal but also on achieving the best possible aesthetic outcome.

If you notice any suspicious skin changes, don’t wait. Contact Castle Dermatology today to schedule your consultation for expert skin cancer surgery in Tarzana — book now for trusted, comprehensive care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is skin cancer surgery?

Skin cancer surgery is a procedure performed to remove cancerous skin cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The goal is complete cancer removal with optimal cosmetic results.

2. When is skin cancer surgery necessary?

Surgery is recommended when a biopsy confirms basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma. Early surgical removal significantly increases cure rates.

3. What types of skin cancer require surgical treatment?

Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are the three most common types treated with surgery, depending on their size, depth, and location.

4. Is skin cancer surgery painful?

Most procedures are performed under local anesthesia, minimizing discomfort. Patients typically experience mild soreness after surgery, which resolves quickly.

5. How long does skin cancer surgery take?

The duration depends on the size and complexity of the lesion. Many procedures are completed within one hour, though larger or more advanced cases may take longer.

6. Will there be scarring after skin cancer surgery?

Some scarring is expected; however, dermatologic surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize visible scarring and preserve cosmetic appearance.

7. What is the recovery time after skin cancer surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure and location of the surgery. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, with complete healing over several weeks.

8. How successful is skin cancer surgery?

When detected early, surgical treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers has a very high cure rate. Early-stage melanoma also has excellent survival outcomes.

9. Do I need follow-up visits after surgery?

Yes. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing and check for any recurrence or development of new skin cancers.

10. How can I reduce my risk of developing skin cancer?

Protecting your skin from UV exposure, wearing SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily, avoiding tanning beds, and scheduling annual dermatology exams significantly reduce your risk.