Skin Cancer Screenings in 535 Miller Ave
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, affecting millions of Americans each year, but it is also the easiest to cure when diagnosed and treated early. At Aesthetic Dermatology And Skin Cancer, Inc., board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Dr. Stefan Lowenstein provides thorough full-body skin exams and teaches patients how to perform self-exams, the two best tools for catching skin cancer before it can cause disfigurement or become life-threatening.
What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening?
During a total body skin exam, we carefully examine your skin from scalp to toes, including areas that are hard to see on your own, such as the scalp, back, and soles of the feet. We evaluate moles, spots, and growths for any signs of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, or precancerous actinic keratoses. With each first-time body check, we also teach you how to recognize the early warning signs of skin cancer. If a lesion looks suspicious, it is usually biopsied right away in our office and sent for microscopic examination.
How Often Should I Be Screened?
We recommend at least one total body skin exam each year. The frequency of your exams will depend on your skin type, sun exposure history, number of moles, and personal or family history of skin cancer and melanoma. Patients who have already had skin cancer typically need more frequent checks.
Why Self-Exams Are So Important
Everyone should perform regular skin self-exams. Combined with a yearly exam by Dr. Lowenstein, self-exams are the best way to protect yourself. If you have children, start teaching them early so they can check their own skin by the time they are teens. Use a full-length mirror and a handheld mirror to check every area of your body, including the backs of your ears, scalp, neck, and between your toes.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- A skin growth that increases in size and appears pearly, translucent, tan, brown, black, or multicolored
- A mole, birthmark, beauty mark, or any brown spot that changes color, grows in size or thickness, changes texture, is irregular in outline, or is new or enlarging
- A new mole that appears after age 21
- A spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab, erode, or bleed
- An open sore that does not heal within three weeks
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an evaluation right away. When skin cancer is found, we offer advanced treatment options including Mohs surgery. Learn more about our skin cancer services.
Skin Cancer Screening FAQs
How often should I get a skin cancer screening?
Most adults benefit from at least one total body skin exam each year. Higher-risk patients may need more frequent screenings.
What happens during a skin cancer screening?
Your dermatologist examines your entire skin surface, including hard-to-see areas, evaluates moles and spots, and biopsies any suspicious lesions.
How long does a skin exam take?
A full-body skin exam is quick, usually taking about 10 to 15 minutes.
Who is at higher risk for skin cancer?
People with fair skin, many moles, a history of sunburns or tanning, significant sun exposure, or a personal or family history of skin cancer are at higher risk.
What should I look for during a self-exam?
Look for growths that are enlarging, moles that change in color, size, or shape, new moles after age 21, and sores that bleed or don’t heal within three weeks.
What happens if a spot looks suspicious?
A biopsy is usually performed during your visit, and the sample is examined under a microscope to confirm a diagnosis.
Should children have their skin checked?
Children rarely develop skin cancer, but teaching them sun protection and how to check their skin early builds lifelong healthy habits.
Schedule Your Annual Skin Check
Protect your health with a professional skin cancer screening at Aesthetic Dermatology And Skin Cancer, Inc.. Call (415) 383-5475 or request an appointment online today.