Skin Cancer/Moles

When it comes to skin care, you can never take anything for granted. Sometimes a mole isn’t just a mole...but sometimes it just is a mole. Many skin growths may look harmless, but their looks can be deceiving. Following Dr. Browne’s recommendations can help protect your skin and your health. Dr. Adrianna Browne and her staff at Illustra Dermatology have the experience, skill set, and knowledge to examine moles and other lesions for possible skin cancer. Our Bay Area dermatology center performs surgical removal and biopsies of cancerous, precancerous, and benign lesions on areas such as the skin, nails, and mucous membranes.

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, most often occurring as a result of overexposure to sunlight. In its various forms, it is one of the most common cancers affecting people in the United States. Skin cancer affects men and women alike. While it is most likely to be a concern for people with lighter skin, forms of skin cancer can still occur in people of all skin tones. The best way to prevent serious complications from skin cancer is to start with awareness, knowing your body, looking for new moles and blemishes, and being aware of any changes in existing moles. 

Monitoring lesions and moles on your skin is crucial to identifying skin cancer in its early stages. Each type of skin cancer presents differently, which is why it is important to contact a dermatologist like Dr. Browne at Illustra Dermatology when you have questions about a mole or other lesion. Lifelong skin cancer exams can be life-saving. Getting your skin examined by Dr. Browne helps to find precancerous skin growths and skin cancer early when they’re highly treatable. Having just one precancerous or one cancerous skin growth means that the overexposure to sunlight has damaged your skin, meaning there is an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Cancerous moles often do not become painful until they are quite large, so waiting until the feeling of pain or discomfort sets in is not recommended. Moles that grow, go through changes in color and shape, have a crusty or rough texture, or become painful may be cancerous. Illustra Dermatology’s board certified dermatologist, Dr. Adrianna Browne, conducts full skin body exams and surgical dermatology services in our patient-centric practice located in the Bay Area. These procedures are not limited to skin cancer. Cysts, lipomas, or benign moles can also be removed with surgical procedures.  Set up an appointment with Illustra Dermatology today to discuss any concerns you have regarding moles or lesions on your skin.