Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, most often on skin exposed to ultraviolet radiation from the sun over many years. It is the most common cancer of any kind, diagnosed in millions of people annually. Three types account for nearly all of it. Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequent and grows slowly. Squamous cell carcinoma is second and carries a greater tendency to invade deeper tissue and spread. Melanoma makes up about one percent of cases and causes the majority of skin cancer deaths, which is why detection timing matters so much for that one. Wall Street Dermatology handles skin cancer end to end from its Financial District office: examination and dermoscopy, biopsy, microscopic diagnosis, surgical removal by Mohs micrographic surgery or standard excision, and the reconstruction that closes the resulting defect. Dr. Julia Tzu completed fellowship training in procedural dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania and in dermatopathology at NYU Langone, so the surgery and the reading of the tissue sit within a single physician's board certifications.
At a Glance
- Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, with millions of cases diagnosed each year[1]
- Melanoma is much less common than other types but is responsible for most skin cancer deaths[1]
- An estimated 3.6 million basal cell carcinoma cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year[4]
- Early-stage melanoma has a 99% five-year survival rate when detected and treated promptly[2]
What are the symptoms of Skin Cancer?
- New growth or spot that changes in size, shape, or color
- A sore that does not heal or heals and returns
- Pearly or waxy bump on face, ears, or neck
- Flat, flesh-colored, pink, or brown scar-like lesion
- Red, firm nodule on sun-exposed areas
- Scaly, crusted growth
- Mole that changes in appearance (ABCDE warning signs)
- Dark streak under fingernail or toenail
When should you seek care for Skin Cancer?
- Any new growth on the skin that concerns you
- A sore still open after a few weeks
- A mole changing in asymmetry, border, color, diameter, or in any other way
- Bleeding or crusting on the skin with no explanation
- A spot that looks different from everything else on your skin
- A dark streak appearing under a fingernail or toenail
- A personal history of skin cancer, which raises the odds of another and warrants scheduled full-body examinations
- A skin cancer returning at a site treated previously, because recurrent tumors need a different surgical approach from new ones
Have questions about skin cancer? Our team is here to help.
What causes Skin Cancer?
- DNA damage to skin cells from UV radiation
- Cumulative sun exposure over years
- Indoor tanning and tanning bed use
- Severe sunburns, especially during childhood
- Genetic mutations affecting cell growth
- Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation
How is Skin Cancer treated?
We offer a service to help manage this condition: Mohs Surgery.
Prognosis
- Basal cell carcinoma has excellent prognosis when treated early
- Squamous cell carcinoma detected early has a 99% five-year survival rate
- Melanoma detected early has a 99% five-year survival rate
- Advanced squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma survival rates decrease significantly, with lower survival rates for melanoma
- Regular follow-up is important as skin cancer can recur and probability of new skin cancer is increased once diagnosed with one skin cancer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, usually caused by DNA damage from UV radiation. The three main types are basal cell carcinoma (most common), squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma (most dangerous). Early detection and treatment lead to excellent outcomes for most skin cancers.
What are the warning signs of skin cancer?
Warning signs include new growths that change in size or shape, sores that don't heal, moles that change appearance, pearly or waxy bumps, flat scaly patches, and red firm nodules. For melanoma specifically, use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolving changes.
When should I see a dermatologist about a skin spot?
See a dermatologist if you notice any new growth that concerns you, a sore that doesn't heal within a few weeks, changes in an existing mole, or any spot that looks different from others on your skin. Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes, especially for melanoma.
How is skin cancer treated?
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Options include Mohs surgery (highest cure rate for BCC and SCC), surgical excision, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, and topical treatments for superficial cancers. Advanced melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma may require additional treatments including immunotherapy. An in-person evaluation can determine the most appropriate approach.
What is Mohs surgery for skin cancer?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique that removes skin cancer layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until no cancer cells remain. It offers the highest cure rate (up to 99% for certain cancers) while preserving the maximum amount of healthy tissue. It's especially valuable for cancers on the face and other sensitive areas.
How can I reduce my risk of skin cancer?
Reduce your risk by avoiding sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., using broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, avoiding tanning beds, and performing monthly skin self-examinations. Annual skin checks by a dermatologist are recommended, especially for those at higher risk.
What is Mohs surgery and when is it the right choice?
Mohs micrographic surgery removes a skin cancer in thin layers, and each layer is examined under a microscope during the same appointment before the next is taken. The surgeon stops at the first clear layer, which spares more healthy tissue than a standard excision and confirms complete removal before the patient leaves. Cure rates run up to 99 percent for new skin cancers and 94 percent for recurrent ones. It is the technique of choice on the face, neck, ears and hands, where preserving tissue matters most. Dr. Tzu is fellowship-trained and board certified in Mohs surgery.
What happens to the wound after a skin cancer is removed?
Removing the cancer leaves a defect requiring closure, and how it is closed governs the final appearance. The reconstructive plan depends on the size and site of the defect and on how tissue moves in that part of the face or body. Dr. Tzu completed a fellowship in procedural dermatology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and plans each closure to restore both function and form.
How is a suspicious spot actually diagnosed?
By biopsy. Under local anesthesia, the involved tissue is removed by punch, shave or excisional technique and sent for microscopic examination. The report names the tumor type, which determines everything that follows. Dr. Tzu holds board certification in dermatopathology, the subspecialty devoted to that microscopic reading.
Is skin cancer treatment covered by insurance?
Skin cancer is medical dermatology, and the practice accepts Cigna, Aetna and Empire BCBS plans for medical care, with some plan-type exclusions. Cosmetic procedures are separate and are paid out of pocket. Some plans require a referral, which is worth confirming before the appointment.
How often should someone be screened?
For someone with no history and no unusual moles, an annual skin check is a reasonable default. Anyone who has already had a skin cancer, has many atypical moles, has a family history of melanoma, or has had significant sun exposure or indoor tanning generally needs to be seen more often. The interval is set at the examination.
Ready to Get Started?
Have questions about skin cancer? Our team is here to help.
Sources & References
This article draws from 5 peer-reviewed sources.
Medical Institutions
Educational & General
Medically reviewed by Dr. Julia Tzu, MD, FAAD, FACMS · Last reviewed: 2026-08-19