Skin Cancer

At Apex Skin Center, we are dedicated to providing expert care in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, offering a range of advanced and effective treatment options tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Under the leadership of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Thomas Knackstedt, a nationally recognized expert in cutaneous oncology and skin cancer management, our team ensures that every patient receives the highest level of care with a focus on precision, safety, and optimal outcomes.

Personalized Treatment for Every Patient

Not all skin cancers are the same, and treatment options vary based on factors such as the type of skin cancer, its location, size, depth, and the patient’s overall health. At Apex Skin Center, we carefully assess each case to determine the most effective treatment plan. Below are some of the primary treatments we offer for basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and certain early-stage melanomas.

Skin Cancer Treatment Options

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision is a standard treatment for many types of skin cancer. In this procedure:

• The cancerous lesion is carefully removed along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
• The excised tissue is sent for pathologic analysis to confirm that no cancer cells remain.
• This approach is commonly used for non-melanoma skin cancers (BCC and SCC) and some early-stage melanomas.
• Depending on the size and location of the excision, stitches may be recommended for proper healing.

This method is highly effective and offers a low recurrence rate when performed correctly.

Local Destruction: Cryosurgery or Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C)

For superficial skin cancers, especially small, low-risk basal or squamous cell carcinomas, we offer minimally invasive local destruction techniques:

• Cryosurgery: This method involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal tissue. It is particularly effective for precancerous lesions (actinic keratoses) and certain superficial skin cancers.
• Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C): In this procedure, the cancerous growth is scraped away using a curette, and the area is treated with electrical currents to eliminate remaining cancer cells. This method is generally used for small, low-risk lesions in non-cosmetic areas.

These treatments are quick and effective, but they may not be suitable for all cancers or areas of the body, especially those in highly visible or delicate locations.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Dr. Thomas Knackstedt is a board-certified Mohs surgeon. Mohs surgery is considered the gold-standard treatment for certain high-risk or complex skin cancers. Mohs surgery is particularly effective for:

• Skin cancers on the face, ears, nose, lips, hands, and other sensitive areas
• Cancers with aggressive growth patterns
• Recurrent or previously treated skin cancers

This procedure is performed in stages:

1. The visible portion of the tumor is removed.
2. The excised tissue is examined immediately under a microscope to check for remaining cancer cells.
3. If cancer is still present, another precise layer is removed, and the process is repeated until all cancerous cells are eliminated.

This technique allows for maximum preservation of healthy tissue while ensuring complete removal of the cancer, resulting in the highest cure rates and the best possible cosmetic outcome.

Topical & Non-Surgical Treatments

For certain superficial skin cancers or precancerous conditions, topical treatments may be an effective alternative to surgery. These include:

• Topical Chemotherapy (e.g., 5-Fluorouracil, Efudex) – Used for superficial basal and squamous cell carcinomas or precancerous lesions.
• Immune Response Modifiers (e.g., Imiquimod, Aldara) – Helps stimulate the body’s immune system to attack abnormal skin cells.
• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) – A light-activated treatment that targets superficial skin cancers and precancerous lesions.

These options provide non-invasive treatment but are not suitable for deep or aggressive cancers. The team at apex Skin Center will carefully evaluate whether these approaches are appropriate for your specific condition.

Why Choose Dr. Thomas Knackstedt for Skin Cancer Treatment?

At Apex Skin Center, you are in the hands of a nationally recognized expert in skin cancer treatment. Dr. Thomas Knackstedt is a leader in cutaneous oncology, known for his:

• Expertise in Mohs surgery and complex skin cancer management
• Commitment to cutting-edge treatment approaches
• Focus on preserving aesthetics and functionality in delicate areas
• Compassionate, patient-centered approach

When it comes to skin cancer treatment, experience matters. Dr. Knackstedt’s expertise ensures that each patient receives the most effective, evidence-based treatment available. At Apex Skin Center, your skin health is our priority. We are here for you and your skin. Contact Apex Skin Center to schedule a consultation or book your visit online in a few easy steps.