The primary cause of BCC is prolonged sun exposure or frequent use of tanning beds, which damage the skin and lead to abnormal cell growth. People with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or a family history of skin cancer are at higher risk for developing BCC.

BCC is diagnosed through a physical exam and often confirmed with a skin biopsy, where a small sample of the suspicious tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. A dermatoscope may also be used for closer inspection of moles or skin lesions.

Scarring can occur after treatment for BCC, but it depends on the treatment method and the location of the cancer. For example, Mohs surgery is designed to remove the cancer with minimal tissue loss, resulting in smaller scars. We also offer laser resurfacing with the UltraClear laser to help minimize scarring after surgery.

Preventing BCC involves protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds. Regular skin checks and early detection are also key to preventing more severe cases.

Superficial radiation can be an effective treatment for basal cell carcinoma, especially for tumors in areas where surgery may be challenging or when a patient is not a surgical candidate. However, it does come with limitations. Unlike surgery, there is no confirmation that the margins are clear. While radiation is advertised as having no scarring, there are still scars and changes to the skin after radiation. Other side effects can include redness, dryness and irritation at the treatment site - similar to a sunburn and these can persist longterm. As opposed to quick and cost effective in office treatments (like excisions, EDC, and Mohs surgery), radiation treatment takes weeks of almost daily appointments and costs thousands of dollars. Long-term data on the effectiveness of superficial radiation is still limited, with most studies showing results only up to 2 years (with many patients dropping out of studies leading to limited data). It’s important to note that, like previous uses of radiation (such as in the treatment of acne), there’s potential for an increased risk of future cancers. Radiation is a great option for specific types of BCC in the right location, but it’s not the best choice for every case. If you are considering radiation, you should see a radiation oncologist who are the experts in this specialized treatment.