Skin Cancer Detection, Treatment & Mohs Surgery in 535 Miller Ave
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and rates of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma continue to rise. At Aesthetic Dermatology And Skin Cancer, Inc., double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Stefan Lowenstein, M.D., provides expert skin cancer screenings, biopsies, and treatment, including Mohs surgery with meticulous reconstruction, all in our Mill Valley office.
Our Skin Cancer Services
- Skin Cancer Screenings – thorough full-body skin exams to detect suspicious spots early
- Mohs Surgery – precise, tissue-sparing removal of skin cancer with the highest cure rates for many tumors
- Basal Cell Cancer – diagnosis and treatment of the most common form of skin cancer
- Squamous Cell Cancer – evaluation and removal of the second most common skin cancer
- Melanoma – early detection and treatment of the most serious form of skin cancer
Why Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Matter
Roughly one in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Much of the sun damage that leads to skin cancer occurs early in life, and its effects can take ten to twenty years or longer to appear. Ongoing sun exposure continues to add damage over time. While melanoma is usually linked to sun exposure, it can develop at any age and anywhere on the body, including areas that rarely see the sun.
The good news is that skin cancer is highly treatable when it is found early. That’s why we strongly recommend at least one total body skin exam each year. The frequency of your exams will depend on your skin type, history of sun exposure, and personal or family history of skin cancer and melanoma.
What to Expect From Our Skin Cancer Care
During your first full-body skin check, we examine your skin surface and moles and teach you how to recognize the early warning signs of skin cancer, such as new or changing spots and sores that don’t heal. Suspicious lesions are usually biopsied right away and sent for histopathologic examination. All mole removals and skin cancer surgeries, including Mohs micrographic surgery, are performed in our office under local anesthesia.
Mohs Surgery and Expert Reconstruction
For many skin cancers, particularly those on the face, ears, scalp, hands, and other cosmetically or functionally important areas, Mohs surgery is the gold standard. The cancer is removed one thin layer at a time, and each layer is examined under the microscope during your visit until no cancer cells remain. This approach offers the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Dr. Lowenstein’s advanced training in facial anatomy and dermatologic surgery allows him to perform repairs designed to protect function and achieve the most natural appearance possible, and he personally calls patients after major procedures to check on their healing.
Protecting Your Skin Every Day
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, shade during peak sun hours, and regular self-exams all help reduce your risk. If you have a history of sun damage or precancerous spots such as actinic keratosis, treatments like photodynamic therapy can help address damaged skin before it progresses.
Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery FAQs
What are the most common types of skin cancer?
The three most common types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas are the most frequent, while melanoma is the most serious.
How often should I have a skin cancer screening?
We recommend at least one total body skin exam each year. Patients with a personal or family history of skin cancer, many moles, or significant sun damage may need more frequent exams.
What are the warning signs of skin cancer?
Watch for new growths, spots that change in size, shape, or color, moles with irregular borders or multiple colors, and sores that bleed or don’t heal. Any of these should be evaluated promptly.
What happens if a spot looks suspicious?
Suspicious lesions are usually biopsied right away in our office and sent for histopathologic examination so we can confirm a diagnosis and plan treatment.
What is Mohs surgery and when is it recommended?
Mohs surgery removes skin cancer layer by layer with microscopic examination during the procedure. It is often recommended for basal and squamous cell carcinomas on the face and other sensitive areas, or for tumors that are large, aggressive, or recurrent.
Is skin cancer surgery performed in your office?
Yes. All mole and skin cancer surgeries, including Mohs surgery, are performed in our office under local anesthesia.
Can skin cancer be cured?
Most skin cancers are highly curable when detected and treated early, which is why regular skin exams and prompt evaluation of changing spots are so important.
Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening Today
Early detection saves lives. Trust your skin to the expertise of Aesthetic Dermatology And Skin Cancer, Inc.. Call (415) 383-5475 or request an appointment online.