Conemaugh Physician Group - Plastic Surgery physicians and staff understand concerns of patients with skin cancer, including scars or disfigurement that may result from surgical treatment. Our team guides patients through treatment and follow-up procedures.
Conemaugh Physician Group - Plastic Surgery physicians surgically remove cancerous and other skin lesions using specialized techniques to preserve patient's health and appearance. Every effort is made to reduce scars and cause little change to physical appearance. For some, reconstructive surgery may require more than one procedure for best results.
Melanoma
Melanoma develops when damage to skin cells triggers mutations that cause rapid multiplication of skin cells and formation of malignant tumors. Most melanomas are black or brown, but can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white. If recognized and treated early, melanoma can be cured. If left untreated, it can be fatal. The disease is primarily caused by long-term sun exposure that frequently led to sunburn, especially in individuals genetically predisposed to the disease.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
An uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the squamous cell layer of the skin is called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). It often appears on the skin as scaly red patches, open sores, elevated growths with a central depression, or warts that may crust or bleed. Caused by genetics and excessive sun exposure, SCC can become disfiguring and sometimes deadly if it grows. Early detection and removal of SCC allow for successful recovery and minimal damage. Most common areas for SCC on the skin include rim of the ear, lower lip, face, bald scalp, neck, hands, arms, and legs. Individuals with fair skin, light hair, and blue, green, or gray eyes are at highest risk of developing the disease. Individuals with a history of substantial sun exposure are at increased risk.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Abnormal, uncontrolled growths or lesions that arise in the skin's basal cell layer are called basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Often appearing as open sores, red patches, pink growths, shiny bumps, or scars, BCC are caused by sun exposure and genetics. While rarely spreading beyond the original tumor site, BCC can be highly disfiguring if allowed to grow.