Our Services / Basal Cell Carcinoma

If you develop suspicious lumps, bumps, or sores on your skin, these symptoms could be a sign of basal cell carcinoma or other forms of skin cancer. At Aloe Dermatology in Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez, and Solvang, California, the skilled dermatology specialists screen for and treat all types of skin cancer. Call the office to schedule an evaluation, or use the online booking tab today.

What is basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and it can cause problems when left undetected and untreated. The Aloe Dermatology specialists have many years of experience screening for and removing basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. 

What are the symptoms of basal cell carcinoma?

The hallmark symptoms of basal cell carcinoma include:

• Non-healing sores
• Red or skin-colored lumps or bumps
• Pink or red skin patches
• Rash-like bumps
• Scar-like tissue
• Crusting
• Oozing
• Bleeding lesions
• Red, scaly skin patches
• Skin itching
• Painful tissues

Basal cell carcinomas begin in the basal layer of the skin and grow for some time before appearing at the skin’s surface. 

What are the risk factors for basal cell carcinoma?

The most common cause of basal cell carcinoma is unprotected exposure to sunlight. Though not typically life-threatening, when left untreated, it can grow and invade localized tissues. Your risk of skin cancer also increases if you have a family or personal history of cancer. 

To reduce your chance of basal cell carcinoma and other forms of skin cancer, wear sunscreen or protective clothing when you’re outdoors. 

How does my specialist diagnose basal cell carcinoma?

Your Aloe Dermatology specialist examines new or unusual skin changes to determine if you have signs of basal cell carcinoma. They also discuss your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms. During a tissue biopsy, your provider takes a sample of irregular tissue and sends it to a lab for analysis. 

How is basal cell carcinoma treated?

During treatment for basal cell carcinoma, your provider cleans and numbs the affected area before removing cancerous tissues. Aloe Dermatology offers:

• Cryosurgery
• Excision
• Topical and oral medications
• Electrodessication and curettage
• Photodynamic therapy
• Mohs surgery 

During Mohs surgery, your specialist removes cancerous tissues, layer by layer, and examines them under a microscope to ensure the elimination of all of the cancer cells. You might also need radiation therapy or other cancer treatments to prevent complications.

It’s rare for basal cell carcinoma to spread, and treatment at Aloe Dermatology has a high cure rate. The key to a superior outcome is early detection and treatment. 

If you suspect you have basal cell carcinoma or another form of skin cancer, schedule an evaluation at Aloe Dermatology by phone or online today.