Skin Cancer

Of all the cancers that humans can get, skin cancer is the most common. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, there are more new cases of skin cancer in the US each year than the combined incidence of breast, prostate, lung, and colon cancer. The practitioners at Alliant Dermatology treat all types of skin cancer and pre-cancers. Two of the most common and effective treatments for skin cancer include Mohs Surgery and Superficial Electron Therapy.

Mohs Surgery and Plastic Surgery

Originally developed in the 1930s, Mohs Micrographic Surgery is an advanced and effective skin cancer treatment procedure. As the most exact and precise method of tumor removal, it minimizes the chance of cancer recurrence. This outpatient (in-office) procedure utilizes a microscope, mapping, and marking to evaluate 100% of the skin margin. The Mohs procedure involves surgically removing skin cancer layer by layer and examining the tissue under a microscope until healthy, cancer-free tissue around the tumor is reached (called clear margins). It offers the highest chance for identification and complete removal of the skin cancer while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. Although there are always exceptions to the rule, most tumors require 1 to 3 stages for complete removal. Depending on the complexity of the skin cancer and the number of layers needed for complete removal, your surgery could take from 1 – 4 hours. Please read our Mohs surgery brochure below for more information.

Resources: Mohs Surgery Brochure, SCF: Mohs Surgery, Mohs Surgery Operation Video
Providers: Dr. David Casper, MD, Dr. Leonik Ahumada, MD, Dr. Nora Vera, MD, Dr. Jeff Morris, DO

Superficial Electron Therapy

Superficial Electron Therapy (SET) offers patients a state-of-the-art nonsurgical management option for basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers. It is particularly well-suited for treating cancers located near the eyes, ears, nose, or lips because it can produce favorable cosmetic outcomes. The treatment uses a very superficial, non-penetrating electron beam to destroy cancer cells in the targeted area while allowing protection of healthy cells. For most patients, the regimen involves four to six weeks of daily treatments, five days a week, depending on the size and location of the cancer.

Resources: SET Brochure
Providers: Dr. April Mendoza, MD

Total Body Skin Examinations

At Alliant Dermatology, our standard of care is total body skin exams. That means at your dermatology visit, we will ask you, “Would you like a total body skin exam?”
Why? Because...

  • Skin cancer affects 1 in 5 Americans

  • Skin cancer can appear anywhere there is skin from head to toe

  • Skin cancer is easily treatable when detected early

Our goal is early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. As Dermatologists, we’re committed to helping you maintain your skin health. Here are the most common questions patients ask us regarding total body skin exams. If you have a question that we have not answered here, be sure to ask us during your next appointment.

Sun Safety

Sun safety is always in season, and it’s important to protect your skin from sun damage throughout the year, no matter the weather. Exposure to the sun can cause sunburn, skin aging, eye damage, and skin cancer. In fact, the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes.

“Quick, friendly, competent, professional service.”

M.J.