Expert Skin Cancer Screening, Diagnosis, & Treatment in Iowa
Early Detection & Advanced Care Including Mohs Surgery
Did you know that as many as one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime? With over 2 million new cases each year, skin cancer is more common than all other types of cancer combined. Early detection through regular skin cancer screenings can make a life-changing difference.
Skin cancer often starts as new growths, changes in existing moles, or pre-cancerous lesions. While these spots may seem harmless, they can become cancerous if left untreated. Up to 50% of fair-skinned individuals develop at least one type of skin cancer by age 65, making skin exams and timely treatment essential.
At RC Dermatology, our providers offer expert skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, including advanced procedures like Mohs surgery, to ensure effective care and peace of mind. Schedule a skin cancer screening today to catch changes early and protect your skin health.
Are You at Risk for Skin Cancer?
While everyone is at risk for skin cancer, those particularly susceptible to skin cancer are those with:
- Many moles (more than 50)
- Moles that have abnormal outlines
- People with red or blonde hair and blue eyes
- Individuals with the inability to tan
- A past history of sunburn, especially a blistering burn before the age of 14, and/or a family history of melanoma
How to Perform a Skin Cancer Self-Exam
Approximately 30% of melanoma originates from an existing mole. Checking moles on a regular basis is very important for the prevention of skin cancer. Be sure to examine your skin monthly using two mirrors in a well-lit room. You should be undressed and able to examine in between fingers, toes and hard-to-see areas, such as the back of the legs and back. Use a hair dryer, if necessary, to see areas of the scalp. Performing monthly skin exams and mole checks will help you to recognize changes when they occur.
How is Skin Cancer Treated?
To diagnose skin cancer, your RC Dermatology expert will perform a thorough skin exam and take a biopsy of any suspicious moles or cells. If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, your dermatology provider will work with you on a plan that may include excision, Mohs surgery or another course of skin cancer treatment.
Schedule an appointment as soon as you notice any differences or changes in your skin’s appearance, and ask your dermatology professional to perform a skin cancer screening.
Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer in Iowa
Mohs surgery is an advanced, specialized procedure for skin cancer removal that offers the highest success rates of any treatment. Unlike other methods, Mohs surgery uses microscopic examination of the removed tissue along with precise mapping to ensure that all cancerous roots and extensions are removed while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This makes Mohs surgery a highly effective and precise option for treating skin cancer.
The length of the procedure varies depending on the size and location of the cancerous lesion, typically taking between two and four hours. Some procedures may take longer, so patients should plan to spend most of the day at the clinic. Much of the time is spent waiting for tissue to be processed and examined in our lab. To stay comfortable, we recommend bringing reading material, music or other items to help pass the time.
Most insurance policies cover Mohs surgery, but coverage can vary. Patients should confirm details with their insurance carrier, as some plans may require referrals or prior authorization. On your first visit, please bring a photo ID and a copy of your insurance card.