skin cancer and
precancerous lesions

At the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, we understand how cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. With our comprehensive medical dermatology practice, highly experienced team of 14 board-certified dermatologists who are specially trained in the treatment of skin cancer, including Mohs Surgery, you can rest assured that we will provide you with the most effective treatment options, and that the health of your skin is in the best care available in New York City. 

Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique for the removal of certain types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, as well as some kinds of melanoma. It is considered as the most effective procedure for treating skin cancer, offering the highest potential for recovery (it has a success rate approaching 99%), even if the skin cancer has been previously treated by another treatment and has recurred.

The treatment involves removing the skin cancer one layer at a time while leaving the surrounding tissue intact and unharmed. The layers are then analyzed microscopically while you wait in the office. Once a skin layer is removed, it will be processed and reviewed immediately by the dermatologist to determine if all of the malignant cells have been taken. This procedure continues until the tissue is cancer-free.

Most of our Mohs Surgeons at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York undergo extensive Fellowship Training under Roy G. Geronemus, M.D. In addition, Fellowship Training from the American College of Mohs Surgery indicates a higher level of education and skill which our dermatologists obtain in order to provide patients with the best possible care. Our Mohs surgeons are amongst the most experienced in the East Coast. We also provide plastic surgery and laser treatments to improve the cosmetic outcome after Mohs surgery on-site, and we can usually provide same-day reconstruction.

Learn more about Mohs Micrographic Surgery.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. They form in the basal cells of the skin which line the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin) and are responsible for making new cells to replace the cells that die. BCC results in tumors that appear on the surface of the skin, often in the form of growths, red patches, scars, sores, and bumps with rolled edges and/or a central indentation. BCCs may also itch, crust, ooze, or bleed.

Learn more about Basal Cell Carcinoma.

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a skin condition that can sometimes develop into squamous cell carcinoma. It often appears in groups of several growths, surfacing on areas of the body that are regularly exposed to sunlight (e.g., scalp, back of hands, face, ears, back of forearms, the neck, and the shoulders). They come in the form of red scales, raised patches, crusty patches, or a sandpaper texture. Detecting AK early gives the patient the opportunity to treat the lesion and prevent skin cancer before it starts. If diagnosed early, almost all actinic keratoses can be successfully removed.

Learn more about Actinic Keratosis.

Some lesions may look concerning but are actually benign. Since these spots may closely resemble skin cancer, it is always best to have them checked by an experienced dermatologist to rule out a more serious condition. Our board-certified dermatologists perform skin checks regularly to keep our patients safe and healthy. 

Cryotherapy – Typically used for actinic keratoses and early-stage skin cancers that have not spread, this minimally-invasive procedure involves targeting the cancerous area with liquid nitrogen, causing it to instantly freeze. When it thaws, the dead tissue is destroyed as it sloughs off.

Electrodessication and Curettage (ECD) – Also called electrosurgery, this surgical procedure removes cancerous tissue by cutting it from the skin using a curette (a tool with circular blade), and using a needle-shaped electrode to treat the area with an electric current to destroy the cancer cells that remain around the wound. This procedure is especially effective for those with basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma.

Excisional Surgery – This type of treatment may be appropriate for any type of skin cancer. It is a minor procedure wherein the doctor excises (surgically removes) all the cancerous lesions together with a safe border of surrounding normal skin to prevent the cancer from spreading. This procedure is ideal for small to medium-sized lesions and moles located in areas of the body which are hidden by clothing.

While prevention is your first line of defense against skin cancer, early detection is a close second. By performing regular skin exams at home and having your skin professionally checked annually by a dermatologist, you can detect cancer before it spreads and save your life.

Various skin conditions can affect patients of all ages. More importantly, early detection of any changes in the skin can be lifesaving.  At the state-of-the-art facility of the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, we can diagnose and treat patients with the best care possible. Save your skin by scheduling an appointment with us today.