Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States with more than one million skin cancers diagnosed annually. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime.

At the Center for Aesthetic Medicine, our physicians trained in Head and Neck Surgery are uniquely qualified to treat cancers of the head, face, and neck. They understand the need for complete excision and treatment of skin cancers, but are sensitive to the need for the best cosmetic outcome possible. Many areas of the face, such as the lips, eyes, and nose require complex repairs that minimize distortion and maximize camouflage of the resultant incisions to result in a natural look. Underlying facial anatomy is important as well, and the techniques used by our physicians to reconstruct the tissues of the face take all these factors into consideration.

If you note a mole or lesion on your face that has changed in size, color, itches, bleeds, or does not heal, contact us to be evaluated. While most skin cancers can be treated successfully, they should not be underestimated as they can also be aggressive and destructive.

Of course, we recommend that all of our patients protect their face and body from the sun, as up to 90 percent of the visible changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by the sun.* We recommend daily sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, with the addition of protective clothing and brimmed hats during periods of long exposure. Contrary to popular belief, the majority of sun exposure happens during adulthood, not childhood. So, not only will you prevent skin damage, keeping you looking as young as possible, you will be markedly decreasing your changes for all skin cancers, including the most deadly one, melanoma.