Skin Cancer

Skin cancer can develop on any part of the body that receives frequent sun exposure, such as the scalp, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms, and hands. One of the areas most prone to skin cancer is the face. It can affect people of all skin tones, including individuals with darker complexions.

If you or a loved one is looking for skin cancer treatment in St. George, UT, Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery is here to help. Dr. Gardner, an award-winning, double-board-certified physician, specializes in reconstructive techniques to restore skin function and appearance.

What Are the Types of Skin Cancer?

Facial skin cancer is divided into three different types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinomas affect the face, ears, and scalp and are characterized by a pearly, waxy bump, a flat, flesh-colored lesion, or a brown scar-like lesion. Basal cell carcinoma treatment may involve:

Surgical excision to remove the cancerous lesion and a healthy tissue margin.
Mohs surgery is a precise, layer-by-layer removal technique ideal for facial skin cancer.
Reconstructive procedures to restore skin integrity and minimize scarring.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinomas are found on the face, lips, and ears. Signs include a firm, reddish nodule and a flat lesion with a scaly or crusted surface. Squamous cell carcinoma treatment may involve:

Surgical excision to remove the affected tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.
Mohs surgery, particularly for SCC on the face, where preserving aesthetics and function is crucial.
Reconstruction techniques, such as skin grafts or local flaps, to repair larger defects.

Melanoma

Melanomas can occur anywhere but are commonly found on the head or neck. Symptoms of facial melanoma include a mole that changes size or color or bleeds; a brownish spot with dark speckles; a lesion with an irregular border and parts that appear red, blue, blue-black, or white; and dark lesions on the mucous membranes lining the nose and mouth. The treatment is a melanoma facial reconstruction, which may involve:

Local flap techniques, where adjacent healthy skin is used to repair the affected area.
Skin grafting involves transplanting healthy skin from another part of the body.
Advanced surgical reconstruction, especially for cases involving significant tissue loss.

Other Skin Cancer Symptoms to Look Out For

There are a few other facial skin cancers that are more rare. Look for red or purple patches on the skin or mucous membranes; firm, shiny nodules in the hair follicles or just beneath the skin; or hard, painless nodules on the eyelids or other parts of the face. Any sore or wound that will not heal is suspicious for cancer.

If you notice any abnormal changes to your skin, make an appointment with Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery or a dermatologist.

What Causes Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer results from mutations in the skin cells that cause them to grow out of control. The biggest risk factors are ultraviolet radiation from sunlight and tanning beds. Those with fair skin, a history of sunburns and excessive sun exposure, moles, or a family history of skin cancer are more prone to developing it.

How Is Skin Cancer Diagnosed?

Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment. A dermatologist or facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Gardner will examine suspicious lesions and may perform a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. Imaging tests may also be recommended if there is concern about deeper tissue involvement.

How Is Skin Cancer Treated?

Treatment for facial skin cancer depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.

Small lesions limited to the skin’s surface can often be removed with a simple skin biopsy. Other superficial skin cancers detected early can often be removed by freezing with liquid nitrogen or vaporizing with laser therapy.

Excisional surgery, or Mohs surgery for larger growths, can also be effective in cutting out cancer without causing damage to the surrounding skin.

When surgery isn’t an option, radiation therapy may be recommended. Topical chemotherapy, using creams or lotions with cancer-fighting drugs, is particularly effective for cancers limited to the skin’s surface. For cancers that have spread, systemic chemotherapy may be necessary.

Am I a Good Candidate for Skin Cancer Treatment?

Anyone diagnosed with skin cancer should seek treatment as soon as possible. Ideal candidates for skin cancer surgery include individuals with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma affecting the face, scalp, or neck. If you’ve undergone Mohs surgery and need reconstruction, Dr. Gardner specializes in skin cancer reconstruction in St. George.

Skin Cancer Treatment Recovery

Recovery varies based on the procedure performed. Most patients experience mild swelling and bruising, which subsides in one to two weeks. If reconstructive surgery is required, healing may take longer. Dr. Gardner provides detailed aftercare instructions to promote proper healing and minimize scarring.

Benefits of Skin Cancer Treatment

Skin cancer treatment prevents the further spread of the cancer, restores the natural appearance, and improves long-term health.

Prompt treatment reduces the risk of the cancer growing or spreading. Advanced reconstructive techniques help maintain facial symmetry and function as well.

Addressing skin cancer early increases the chances of complete removal and long-term remission. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gardner to begin your skin cancer treatment today.

How Much Does Skin Cancer Treatment Cost?

The cost of treatment varies based on the procedure needed. Many insurance plans cover skin cancer removal, but reconstructive procedures may have additional expenses. Speak with our team to discuss financing options.

Why Choose Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery?

When it comes to facial skin cancer surgery, experience matters. Dr. Gardner is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive expertise in skin cancer reconstruction in St. George. He specializes in precise, natural-looking results and prioritizes both function and aesthetics. At Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery, we are committed to compassionate, expert care.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or need reconstructive surgery, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gardner today. He and the team will discuss your treatment options.

Call Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery at (435) 628-1704 for more information.