Skin Cancer Treatment

Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in the United States, affecting people of every age, skin tone, and background. It develops when skin cells grow abnormally, most often due to cumulative sun exposure, though genetics and other factors can also play a role. Because skin cancer can range from a highly treatable precancerous lesion to a life-threatening melanoma, understanding the different types, warning signs, and treatment options is essential—something patients throughout New York City turn to Dr. Michele Green for help navigating.

The three most common forms of skin cancer—basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma—behave differently and require distinct treatment approaches, ranging from simple in-office procedures to more involved surgical or medical therapies. Early detection dramatically improves outcomes for every type of skin cancer, which is why routine skin exams, prevention & screening, and prompt evaluation of any new or changing growth are so important. With decades of experience diagnosing and treating skin cancer at every stage, Dr. Michele Green offers patients a thorough, individualized approach to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is an abnormal proliferation of skin cells that forms a visible skin growth or lesion. Most skin cancers develop due to overexposure to the sun. However, sun exposure alone is not the only factor—genetics also play a significant role in why some patients develop skin cancer, and others do not. The three major types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Dr. Michele Green is an expert in diagnosing and treating all forms of skin cancer. As chief resident in dermatology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in NYC, she has always had a keen interest in skin cancer prevention and detection. As a resident, Dr. Green studied with the renowned Dr. A. Bernard Ackerman and researched the surgical margins needed to treat skin cancers such as malignant melanoma. With this focus on prevention, screening, detection, and treatment, Dr. Green begins each new patient exam with a complete skin examination, even when the visit is for a cosmetic consultation.

Skin Cancer Detection

When it comes to skin cancer, early detection, a prompt diagnosis, and the right treatment plan offer patients the best chance of recovery. While careful sun protection is the best form of prevention, skin cancer can also develop in areas of the skin that aren’t regularly exposed to sunlight. A thorough skin evaluation from Dr. Michele Green, voted one of NYC’s best dermatologists, establishes a baseline that helps patients better understand and monitor their skin health.

Skin cancer falls into three basic types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Knowing which type of skin cancer you have helps determine the most appropriate treatment. Treating precancerous skin lesions is also an important part of a comprehensive skin cancer treatment plan.

Actinic Keratoses (Pre-cancers)

An actinic keratosis is a scaly or crusty skin lesion that can sometimes go unnoticed. More than ten million Americans have actinic keratoses, making it the most common precancerous skin condition. People with fair skin who spend significant time in the sun are at higher risk of developing actinic keratoses. If left untreated, these lesions can progress to squamous cell carcinoma—approximately ten percent of actinic keratoses advance to squamous cell carcinoma, and forty to sixty percent of squamous cell carcinomas begin as untreated actinic keratoses.

Once an actinic keratosis is identified, several treatment options are available, including topical medications such as Efudex and Carac, as well as more comprehensive treatments like Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). Dr. Green will determine the severity of your lesions and choose the most appropriate treatment for your skin.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

According to the American Cancer Society, Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common skin cancer, with about 700,000 new cases diagnosed each year. People with fair skin or a history of prolonged sun exposure have a higher lifetime risk of developing SCC. Repeated tanning bed use also increases this risk—people who use tanning beds are 2.5 times more likely to develop SCC than those who do not.

Certain precancerous growths, including those caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), may progress to squamous cell carcinoma. If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other organs and become life-threatening, with untreated cases causing approximately 2,500 deaths each year. Early detection is critical because once identified, squamous cell carcinoma is highly treatable. Dr. Green recommends several treatment options for squamous cell carcinoma, including excision, electrodessication, and Mohs surgery.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer, affecting approximately two million people each year. Most basal cell carcinomas occur on areas of the skin that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, neck, back, and scalp. Although basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other organs, it can damage surrounding healthy skin through local invasion, which is why early detection and treatment matter. In its early stages, basal cell carcinoma is often treatable with several methods. When Dr. Green diagnoses a basal cell carcinoma, treatment is either excision, Mohs surgery, or electrodessication, depending on the size and anatomic location.

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that forms in the basal skin cells. Basal cells regenerate new skin cells as old cells die. Basal cell carcinoma presents as a lesion or skin growth that does not heal. In addition, the skin growth usually presents with the following characteristics:

• A pearly white, flesh-colored, or pink bump that is translucent, with visible blood vessels that can rupture, leaving a wound that does not heal. These types of basal cell carcinoma are most common and generally appear on the face and ears.
• A brown, black, blue, or dark growth, slightly raised, with a translucent edge.
• A flat, scaly, reddish patch that appears on the back or chest and is raised, with a propensity to grow quite large.
• Morpheaform basal cell carcinoma is the least common type. It is a white, waxy, scar-like lesion with ill-defined borders.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 5.4 million basal and squamous cell skin cancers are diagnosed in the United States each year.

Melanoma

Melanoma is one of the most serious types of skin cancer and develops in the skin cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. While melanoma is the most common serious skin cancer, other less common but serious skin cancers, such as Merkel Cell Carcinoma, also exist. Melanoma can form anywhere on the body, including the eyes. In patients with darker skin tones, including African American and Asian individuals, melanoma can also form on the soles of the feet, palms, and nail beds.

It is not known exactly how melanomas form, but overexposure to the sun and artificial light, such as tanning beds, increases your risk of developing melanoma. Genetics also play a role, as malignant melanoma often runs in families.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Your risk of developing melanoma doubles if you have had 5 or more sunburns, and a single childhood burn doubles your lifetime risk of melanoma. In addition, current statistics show that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Although melanoma is the least common form of skin cancer, it is the most lethal, accounting for 1% of all skin cancers.

Proper sun precautions while outdoors, such as wearing sunscreen and sun-protective clothing, help protect the skin from sun damage. Regular follow-up visits with your dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, are also important for skin examinations that can detect the earliest signs of skin cancer.

Early Detection of Melanoma Skin Cancer

It is critical to understand the ABCDEs of malignant melanoma to enable early detection and treatment of this life-threatening skin cancer.

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the lesion doesn’t match the appearance of the other half.
• B – Border irregularity: The edges are uneven, notched, or blurred.
• C – Color: The color or pigmentation is not uniform throughout. Shades of tan, brown, or black, as well as blue, red, and white, may be present.
• D – Diameter: The size of the mole is greater than ¼ inch (6mm), about the size of a pencil’s eraser. Some melanomas in the early stages are even smaller.
• E – Evolution: There is a change in the size, shape, symptoms (such as itching or tenderness), color, or surface (bleeding) of the mole.

If you notice any of these symptoms, please consult Dr. Michele Green for a mole examination and a complete skin exam.

What are the Key Stages of Melanoma

The TNM staging system, developed by the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), stages melanoma. In this model, each letter contributes to the tumor stage. The “T” stands for tumor and ranks it by size from 0 to 4. Each number indicates tumor size; 0 is a superficial melanoma or melanoma in situ (the cancerous tissue has only penetrated the epidermis), and stage 4 means the cancer has metastasized beyond the tumor into the lymph nodes or other organs. N represents the lymph nodes and indicates whether the cancer has spread to them. Cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes is more serious and requires more aggressive treatment. M indicates whether the cancer has metastasized. In addition to the TNM staging model, diagnostic testing such as ultrasound, CT scans, and blood tests to check liver function and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels is performed to complete melanoma staging.

Risk factors for skin cancer

The following factors may increase your risk of skin cancer and the type of cancer:

• Chronic sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer. In addition, a history of severe sunburns also significantly increases your risk of skin cancer.
• Radiation therapy – There is an increased risk of developing basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas if you have had previous radiation treatments.
• Fair skin – The risk of skin cancer is higher for individuals with less melanin. If you have light-colored eyes, burn easily from sun exposure, and have a propensity to freckle, you are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
• Increasing age – Your risk of skin cancer increases with age, as most skin cancers arise from years of cumulative sun exposure. As you get older, the likelihood of developing skin cancers rises. Younger individuals can also develop skin cancer due to exposure to UV light, tanning beds, and genetic predisposition.
• A personal or family history of skin cancer – If you’ve had basal cell carcinoma one or more times, you have a good chance of developing it again. If you have a family history of skin cancer, you may have an increased risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. In particular, a family history of melanoma makes you much more likely to develop a malignant melanoma.
• Immunosuppressive medications – Immunosuppressive medications can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

Skin cancer treatment options

The goal of any skin cancer treatment is to remove the cancer completely. The best treatment depends on the type, location, and size of the skin cancer. The treatment selected also depends on whether the skin cancer has recurred. While most skin cancers are treated and managed by dermatologists, in some cases you may need to consult an oncologist or a radiation oncologist. This is especially true for malignant melanoma or skin cancers that are deep or have metastasized to other organs or lymph nodes.

Surgery

Skin cancer surgery most often treats squamous cell carcinomas with a high risk of recurrence, basal cell carcinomas, and melanomas to ensure removal of all cancerous cells.

Surgical treatment options include:

• Excision – This treatment is usually used to treat basal cell carcinoma and melanomas. During the procedure, the area is anesthetized, and the surgeon excises the cancerous lesion. The tissue sample is sent to a dermatopathologist, who examines it under a microscope to ensure all cancerous cells have been removed and that no cancer remains.
• Mohs surgery – Mohs micrographic surgery involves removing abnormal cells one layer at a time. During the procedure, a pathologist reviews each layer of tissue removed under a microscope. The process repeats until no cancerous cells remain and only normal tissue is seen. This thorough process gives the surgeon confidence that all abnormal cells have been removed.

Mohs surgery is usually recommended for basal cell carcinoma with a high risk of recurrence and for melanoma.

Other Skin Cancer treatments

Your doctor may recommend other non-surgical treatments or laser surgery if traditional surgery is not an option.

Other treatments include:

• Photodynamic therapy – Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combines photosensitizing drugs with blue light to treat superficial skin cancers such as actinic keratoses. The procedure involves applying a topical photosensitizing medication, called Levulan, which sensitizes the cancer cells, followed by treatment with blue light.
• Curettage and electrodesiccation – This treatment involves scraping the surface of the lesion with a curette and using a hyfrecator to destroy the remaining tissue. This option is best for superficial skin cancers and lesions with a low likelihood of recurrence.
• Radiation therapy – Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, similar to X-rays, to kill cancerous cells. It is often used after melanoma treatment when there is an increased risk of recurrence. It can also be used on parts of the body for basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas when surgical excision is not an option.
• Cryosurgery – This treatment freezes cancerous cells with liquid nitrogen. Freezing, also known as cryotherapy, is usually an option for superficial lesions such as actinic keratosis and some squamous cell carcinomas. The treatment may be done after curettage and electrodesiccation to prevent recurrence.
• Topical treatments – Four FDA-approved topical prescription creams can be considered for treating skin cancers when surgery is not an option. The four creams are Fluorouracil (Efudex), Imiquimod (Aldara), Diclofenac (Solaraze), and Ingenol mebutate (Picato). You can treat actinic keratoses with any of these four topical creams. However, other types of skin cancers may need additional therapies.

Clinical trials for skin cancer

Clinical trials enable doctors to make scientific advances through voluntary participation and research. These trials help dermatologists identify more effective ways to manage and treat non-melanoma skin cancer and keratinocytic lesions. Most cancer research focuses on developing new and effective therapies to treat existing conditions. The studies evaluate new surgical approaches, treatment combinations such as targeted therapy, new drugs, and symptoms and side effects. To obtain FDA approval, companies must submit clinical trials for medications, medical devices, and procedures for review and approval before making them available to the general public.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Skin Cancer Treatment

What causes skin cancer?

Skin cancer develops when DNA damage—most often from ultraviolet (UV) radiation—triggers abnormal, uncontrolled growth in skin cells. Chronic sun exposure, tanning bed use, fair skin, a personal or family history of skin cancer, and immune-suppressing conditions or medications all increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma. Genetics also plays a meaningful role, as some patients are more predisposed to skin cancer than others, even with similar sun exposure. Dr. Michele Green evaluates each patient’s individual risk factors during a comprehensive skin exam to guide prevention and long-term monitoring.

What are the signs of skin cancer?

The earliest sign of skin cancer is often a new growth or a mole that changes in size, shape, or color. Skin changes such as persistent scaliness, bleeding, itching, or a sore that won’t heal can also indicate a problem. Following the ABCDE guide—asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter greater than a pencil eraser, and evolution over time—can help patients recognize a suspicious skin lesion early. Any new or changing spot on the skin should be evaluated promptly by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC.

What does skin cancer look like?

Skin cancer can look different depending on the type. Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a pearly, translucent bump or a flat, scaly, reddish patch. In contrast, squamous cell carcinoma may present as a rough, scaly patch or a firm, red nodule. Melanoma typically looks like a dark brown, black, or multicolored mole with irregular borders, though it can occasionally appear pink or skin-colored. Because appearances vary so widely, Dr. Green recommends a professional skin exam for any new or unusual growth rather than self-diagnosing.

How is skin cancer diagnosed?

Skin cancer diagnosis begins with a careful visual examination of the skin lesion, often using a dermatoscope to evaluate pigment patterns and borders more closely. If a growth appears suspicious, Dr. Green will perform a skin biopsy, numb the area, and remove all or part of the lesion so a pathologist can examine the tissue under a microscope. For more advanced cases, additional imaging, such as CT scans, or blood work may be recommended to determine whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other organs.

What is the best treatment for skin cancer?

The best treatment for skin cancer depends on the tumor’s type, size, and location, as well as the patient’s overall health and prior treatment history. Dr. Green personalizes each treatment plan, drawing on options ranging from excision and Mohs surgery to photodynamic therapy, topical chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. For most basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, surgical removal offers the highest cure rate, whereas melanoma often requires a combination of surgery and close monitoring of the lymph nodes.

What is the most common treatment for skin cancer?

Surgical excision is the most common treatment for skin cancer because it allows Dr. Green to remove the cancerous tissue in a single procedure and confirm clear margins. For basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas, Mohs micrographic surgery is often preferred for its precision. Superficial or precancerous lesions, such as actinic keratosis, are often treated with less invasive options, such as cryotherapy or topical chemotherapy.

What is the treatment for basal cell skin cancer?

Basal cell carcinoma is typically treated with excision, Mohs surgery, or curettage and electrodessication, depending on the tumor’s size and location. Because basal cell carcinoma rarely metastasizes but can invade surrounding tissue if left untreated, early treatment helps preserve healthy skin and minimize scarring. Dr. Green determines the optimal approach based on each lesion’s specific characteristics.

What is the treatment for squamous cell skin cancer?

Squamous cell carcinoma is most often treated with excision, electrodessication, or Mohs surgery, particularly when the risk of recurrence or lymph node spread is higher. Because untreated squamous cell carcinoma can become life-threatening, Dr. Green emphasizes prompt treatment once a diagnosis is confirmed. In select cases, radiation therapy or topical treatments may be used as an adjunct or alternative to surgery.

What is the treatment for melanoma?

Melanoma treatment typically begins with surgical excision to remove the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue, with the margin width determined by the tumor’s depth. Depending on the stage, additional treatment such as lymph node evaluation, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or chemotherapy may also be recommended. Because melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer, Dr. Green works closely with oncologists and radiation oncologists when a patient’s melanoma has spread beyond the skin.

What is Mohs surgery for skin cancer?

Mohs surgery, or Mohs micrographic surgery, is a precise surgical technique in which the surgeon removes the cancer in thin layers, examining each layer under a microscope before proceeding. This process continues until no cancerous cells remain, achieving the highest possible cure rate while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. Mohs surgery is especially valuable for skin cancers on the face, ears, and nose, where preserving healthy skin is a priority.

What is photodynamic therapy for skin cancer?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combines a topical photosensitizing medication with a targeted light source, such as blue light, to destroy precancerous and superficial cancerous cells. Dr. Green applies the medication directly to the affected skin, allows it to be absorbed, and then activates it with light to selectively treat actinic keratosis and certain superficial skin cancers. PDT is a valuable non-surgical option for patients with widespread sun damage or multiple lesions in a single treatment area.

What is the treatment for skin cancer on the face?

Skin cancer on the face is often treated with Mohs surgery for its precision and ability to preserve healthy tissue in cosmetically sensitive areas. Dr. Green carefully considers the location, depth, and type of skin cancer, as well as anticipated scarring, when developing a treatment plan for facial skin cancer. After removal, reconstructive techniques may also restore a natural appearance.

What is the treatment for skin cancer on the nose?

The nose is one of the most common sites for basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, and Mohs surgery is generally the preferred treatment because it maximizes healthy tissue preservation in this delicate area. Careful surgical planning helps preserve both function and the nose’s cosmetic appearance after removing the tumor. Dr. Green frequently collaborates with reconstructive specialists for more complex nasal skin cancer cases.

How long does skin cancer treatment take?

The length of skin cancer treatment depends on the cancer type and extent. A straightforward excision or curettage and electrodessication can often be completed in a single office visit lasting less than an hour. In contrast, Mohs surgery may take several hours because Dr. Green must wait for each tissue layer to be processed and examined. More advanced cases involving radiation therapy or systemic treatments such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy may extend over several weeks.

What should I expect during skin cancer treatment?

Most skin cancer treatments are performed in-office under local anesthesia, keeping patients comfortable and awake throughout the procedure. Depending on the treatment selected, patients may notice mild swelling, redness, or a scab as the treated area heals. Dr. Green will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support recovery. For patients undergoing radiation therapy, treatment involves a series of brief sessions with high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancerous cells.

What is recovery like after skin cancer treatment?

Recovery after skin cancer treatment varies by procedure, but most patients heal within a few weeks. Excisions and Mohs surgery typically require simple wound care. They may leave a fine scar that fades over time, whereas topical treatments and photodynamic therapy can cause temporary redness, peeling, or crusting. Dr. Green closely monitors healing and schedules follow-up visits to confirm that the treated area is recovering as expected.

How effective is skin cancer treatment?

When caught and treated early, skin cancer is highly treatable, with cure rates exceeding 95 percent for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas treated with excision or Mohs surgery. Melanoma also has an excellent prognosis when detected early, underscoring the importance of regular skin exams. Dr. Green’s meticulous, individualized approach to treatment planning helps maximize successful outcomes for every patient.

Can skin cancer come back after treatment?

Yes, skin cancer can recur, particularly in patients with a personal history of basal cell carcinoma, extensive sun damage, or melanoma. Patients who have been treated for skin cancer are also at higher risk of developing a new skin cancer elsewhere on the body. Therefore, Dr. Green recommends ongoing skin surveillance and regular follow-up skin exams to detect any recurrence or new lesions as early as possible.

How much does skin cancer treatment cost?

The cost of skin cancer treatment varies widely depending on the type of skin cancer, the treatment method selected, and whether additional procedures, such as reconstruction, are needed. Because skin cancer treatment is medically necessary, it is typically covered by health insurance, unlike many purely cosmetic dermatology procedures. Dr. Green’s office can help patients understand their coverage and estimated costs during the consultation.

Can a dermatologist treat skin cancer?

Yes, dermatologists are trained to diagnose and treat most skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and early-stage melanoma. Dr. Green, a board-certified dermatologist with decades of experience in prevention and screening, detection, and treatment, performs procedures such as excision, Mohs surgery, and photodynamic therapy in her office. For advanced or metastatic skin cancer, she collaborates with oncologists and radiation oncologists to coordinate comprehensive care.

When should I see a dermatologist for skin cancer?

Patients should see a dermatologist promptly if they notice a new growth, a changing mole, or a sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks. Individuals with fair skin, a personal or family history of skin cancer, or significant sun exposure should also schedule routine skin exams, even without an obvious concern. Dr. Green recommends an annual full-body skin exam for most patients, with more frequent visits for higher-risk patients.

Schedule Your Skin Cancer Consultation with Dr. Michele Green Today

Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early, but an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment plan make all the difference in outcomes and long-term skin health. From actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma to more advanced squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, each type of skin cancer requires a tailored approach—whether that means Mohs surgery, photodynamic therapy, topical chemotherapy, or a broader treatment plan that may include radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Patients throughout New York City trust Dr. Michele Green’s expertise in comprehensive skin cancer prevention, screening, detection, and treatment.

Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 25 years of experience diagnosing and treating skin cancer at her private Upper East Side practice in New York City. Her early dermatology training at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, combined with decades of hands-on clinical experience, enables her to guide patients through every stage of skin cancer care with precision and compassion. Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times have consistently recognized Dr. Green as one of NYC’s top dermatologists for her clinical expertise and dedication to patient care. If you’re concerned about a new or changing mole or other skin changes, contact us online or call Dr. Green’s office today at 212-535-3088  to schedule your skin cancer consultation.