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How to Know if You Have Skin Cancer

All of us have an assortment of skin blemishes, brown and red spots, birthmarks, and other odd looking speck. While most of them are harmless, some can indicate possible skin cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is usually very treatable when spotted early, so we recommend that you know the signs and visit us if you notice anything. 

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer forms when cells in your skin begin to divide and grow abnormally. Sun exposure is one of the strongest factors contributing to skin cancer. Other factors include a family history of skin cancer or very fair skin. The most common types of skin cancer grow slowly, but some types can be dangerous, and all should be diagnosed and treated.  

How to Know if You Have Skin Cancer

Skin cancers often have a distinct visual appearance that you can spot if you keep an eye on your skin. Dr. Dohner and his team can catch skin cancer and remove it in its very early stages. Keep an eye out for these skin cancer symptoms:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This cancer develops in the squamous cells forming the skin’s outer layers. You might notice:

  • Itching, burning, or irritated spot
  • Sensitive or painful bumps
  • Flaky or scaly patch
  • A firm red bump

Basal Cell Carcinoma

This skin cancer develops in deeper layers of the skin. You might see signs such as:

  • Shiny or pearly-looking bumps
  • Spots that bleed, crust over, and come back
  • Sores that do not heal

Melanoma

This form of skin cancer grows more quickly and can become dangerous. It affects the melanocytes, cells in the skin that produce pigment. Patches of melanocytes appear as moles, and most will never cause any harm. However, you should become familiar with your moles and schedule an appointment if you notice any of these:

  • A for asymmetry – moles that have an unusual shape
  • B for borders – moles with borders that look irregular or uneven
  • C for color – moles that develop more than one color
  • D for diameter – moles over 6mm in size, about the size of a pencil eraser
  • E for evolution – moles that are evolving or changing

Consultations Available Now

The first step is to schedule an in-person consultation with one of our highly trained providers at New York Skin & Vein Center located in Oneonta, NY, serving the surrounding New York City areas with additional offices in Norwich, Binghamton, and Cobleskill.

Simply fill out the form on this page and we will reach out to you promptly to schedule your appointment. Your journey to a healthier, happier you can start today.

How is Skin Cancer Diagnosed?

Your New Your Skin & Vein Center professional will examine your concerning spot. In many cases, they will use a punch or shave biopsy to remove the lesion and send it to a pathologist. This specialist determines whether any cancer cells exist and if they have all been removed. 

How is Skin Cancer Treated?

Dr. Dohner and his team have a wide range of skin cancer treatments. In some cases, Dr. Dohner may perform an excision that removes cancer and a small margin of surrounding skin. A pathologist will check these margins to make sure no cancerous cells remain. 

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

Dr. Dohner and his team strive to provide the best experience for everyone who chooses their practice for their aesthetic and vein needs. Read why our patients love their results & experience with Dr. Dohner and his team of expert providers at New York Skin & Vein Center in New York.
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Take the Next Step

To schedule your in-person skin cancer consultation, call New York Skin & Vein Centers at (607) 431-2525 or simply fill out the form on this page. We look forward to working with you.

More To Explore

Oneonta

Phone: 607-431-2525

Norwich

Phone: 607-336-2400

Binghamton

Phone: 607-201-1100

Cobleskill

Phone: 518-823 4122