For years, melanoma has been known as the deadliest form of skin cancer. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that within the United States, an individual dies of melanoma at a rate of almost one per hour. However, this type of skin cancer can be diagnosed in the early stages, allowing for faster and more effective treatment. With treatment comes lower morbidity and mortality rates.

Why are skin cancer screenings so important?

Our skin is the largest organ of our body, and is one of few organs that are exposed to the elements every day. This means that it is at a high risk of developing cancer. There are several types of cancer, with melanoma being the most deadly of them all. However, if patients have skin cancer screenings performed at least once a year, a dermatologist can spot areas of concern, perform a biopsy, and find out if patients have skin cancer. Once skin cancer has been diagnosed, then treatment options can be discussed.

Without routine skin cancer screenings, patients are putting themselves at risk for developing more severe stages of cancer. These later stages may be much more difficult to treat because of the rate at which they spread. However, early detection ensures a more effective approach to treatment and can eliminate the chances of the cancer spreading elsewhere to the body.

What occurs during a skin cancer screening?

First, the doctor will ask the patient if they have noticed any unusual growths or changes to their skin that may be indicative of cancer and will evaluate these areas first. Then, a head-to-toe examination is performed. Moles, birthmarks, skin tags, and other skin imperfections that are spotted are recorded, and areas may be measured or biopsied. If patients receive a confirmation that skin cancer cells are present, removal of the skin growth may be discussed. Patients may also be referred to an oncologist to discuss their next plan of action and determine which treatment is best.

Schedule your routine skin cancer screening today

Regular screenings with a dermatologist can help with early detection and treatment of even the deadliest forms of skin cancer. Contact Remington Laser Dermatology Centre in Calgary, AB to schedule a screening with Drs. Todd Remington or Kent Remington, and start taking a proactive approach to your body’s health and wellness.

There may be times when patients visit Remington Laser Dermatology Centre to work with a professional to improve their skin’s health and appearance. One common complaint seen by Drs. Todd Remington and Kent Remington is that of unwanted lumps, bumps, and other skin growths. These may include any skin lesion that develops unexpectedly. The removal of these lumps and bumps can be achieved with the help of our Calgary, AB area team.

What are skin lesions?

Skin lesions may present themselves as a lump, sore, or area of skin that impacts the appearance of the skin and in some instances, the health. Skin lesions seen at the practice of Drs. Todd Remington and Kent Remington are first evaluated to determine if they are an indication of skin cancer. This is done through a biopsy, where a portion of the lesion is removed and sent off to a laboratory to determine if cancerous cells are present. If the biopsy comes back with a negative report, the dermatologists will then discuss the available methods of removal.

Some of the more common types of skin lesions and growths seen in our practice include:

  • Moles
  • Warts
  • Skin tags
  • Benign growths
  • Actinic and seborrheic keratosis
  • Bowen disease
  • Melanoma
  • Basal cell carcinoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma
  • Molluscum contagiosum

Once the type of growth has been diagnosed, the dermatological team can then work with the patient to decide the most appropriate type of removal.

What types of removal are available for unwanted lumps and bumps?

Patients in Calgary, AB who visit Remington Laser Dermatology Centre are pleased to find that they have several treatment options to choose from. This includes the following solutions:

  • Shave excision
  • Simple scissor excision
  • Full thickness skin excision
  • Curettage and electrodesiccation
  • Laser excision
  • Cryotherapy
  • Mohs micrographic surgery

Each method of removal may work best for specific patients. By having a wide selection of treatment options to choose from, many patients are able to find the one that works best for their needs.

Considering the removal of a skin growth?

Contact the team at Remington Laser Dermatology Centre to discuss your needs. Our practice, located at 150-7220 Fisher Street SE in Calgary, AB is here to assist with a variety of skin care solutions for men, women, and children.

Dr. Kent Remington
( Mon – Wed )

Dr. Todd Remington
( Mon – Fri )