Skin Cancer Specialists Manhattan Beach CA

Find Skin Cancer Specialists in Manhattan Beach, CA. Whether you’re seeking treatment or looking to schedule a preventative screening, we can connect you with the best dermatologists near you in Manhattan Beach, CA.

Local Businesses

Skin Cancer Specialists FAQ in Manhattan Beach, CA

What is the most common treatment for skin cancer?

Surgery is the primary treatment for most skin cancers. For patients with basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas, a dermatologist or other qualified doctor may perform an outpatient procedure using a local anesthetic.

Can a doctor tell if a mole is cancerous just by looking at it?

A visual check of your skin only finds moles that may be cancer. It can’t tell you for sure that you have it. The only way to diagnose the condition is with a test called a biopsy. If your doctor thinks a mole is a problem, they will give you a shot of numbing medicine, then scrape off as much of the mole as possible.

What do cancerous sun spots look like?

The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred. The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue. The spot is larger than ¼ inch across – about the size of a pencil eraser – although melanomas can sometimes be smaller than this.

What are the warning signs of basal cell carcinoma?

A shiny, skin-colored bump that’s translucent, meaning you can see a bit through the surface. A brown, black or blue lesion — or a lesion with dark spots — with a slightly raised, translucent border. A flat, scaly patch with a raised edge. A white, waxy, scar-like lesion without a clearly defined border.

What can be mistaken for melanoma?

Nevus (mole) Moles, also known as nevi, are one of the most common growths that people find on their skin. Growing mostly in early adulthood these are some of the growths most commonly mistaken for melanomas.

Can a dermatologist tell if a mole is cancerous just by looking at it?

A visual check of your skin only finds moles that may be cancer. It can’t tell you for sure that you have it. The only way to diagnose the condition is with a test called a biopsy. If your doctor thinks a mole is a problem, they will give you a shot of numbing medicine, then scrape off as much of the mole as possible.

How fast do skin cancers progress?

Some forms of skin cancer tend to grow in a matter of weeks, while others grow over months, or even longer. While a number of factors determine how fast or slow skin cancer may grow in any one individual, some types of skin cancer are more aggressive than others.

How curable is skin cancer?

Nearly all skin cancers can be cured if they are treated before they have a chance to spread. The earlier skin cancer is found and removed, the better your chance for a full recovery. Ninety percent of those with basal cell skin cancer are cured.

What skin cancers are fatal?

Melanoma, which means “black tumor,” is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It grows quickly and has the ability to spread to any organ. Melanoma comes from skin cells called melanocytes.

How long is too long to leave skin cancer?

In as little as 6 weeks melanoma can put your life at risk as it has the ability to grow quickly and spread to other parts of your body including your organs. It can be present in any area, even those which haven’t been in the sun, although sun exposure is a common cause.