Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, developing when pigment-producing cells become cancerous. Alta Vista Dermatology offers melanoma treatment to men and women living in Denver, Highlands Ranch, and the neighboring areas of Colorado.
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, which often develops as a tumor of pigmented skin cells. These tumors tend to develop as moles, which will form suddenly or change in shape, color, or size. These growths can occur anywhere on the body, but most often form in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the arms, neck and face.
How is Melanoma Detected and Treated?
Melanoma, like most skin cancers, is typically detected with cancer screenings. Suspicious growths, especially in moles, are indicators that you may be developing melanoma. At Alta Vista Dermatology, we provide full body skin examinations to detect and diagnose skin cancer. Once diagnosed, we will be able to recommend the appropriate treatment. For the treatment of melanoma, we typically recommend Mohs surgery.
What Can I Expect from Melanoma Treatment?
Mohs surgery is performed using local anesthetic to ensure that the patient is entirely comfortable during the procedure. First, the cancerous growth is removed from the skin, preventing cancer from spreading. Then, a thin layer of tissue is removed to ensure that all of the cancerous cells are removed. If it appears that cancer has spread deeper in the skin, those layers will be removed one by one. This technique is used to make sure that only cancerous tissue is removed and your healthy skin remains unharmed.
What is Recovery Like After Melanoma Treatment?
The Mohs surgery procedure is very precise and only removes the cancerous skin tissue, which contributes to an easy and quick recovery after treatment. Patients are typically able to resume work and other normal activities the day after their procedure, although exercise and other strenuous activities may need to be avoided for as long as three weeks. If you experience any discomfort after your surgery, over-the-counter pain relievers are often all that is needed to provide relief.
If you have recently been diagnosed with melanoma, you can find the personalized care you need at Alta Vista Dermatology. Our team of board-certified medical professionals specialize in the most advanced skin cancer treatments, ensuring that you receive safe and effective treatment. We proudly serve patients living in the Denver and Highlands Ranch, CO, areas.
Ready to make an appointment? Book online today