Squamous Cell Carinoma

What is squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is a kind of skin cancer that typically grows on the uppermost skin layers. It's usually seen on the face, ears, scalp, and hands, although squamous cell carcinoma can grow anywhere that regularly gets sun exposure.

This type of cancer is most common in people who are middle age or older.

How can I recognize squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is usually a flat, scaly patch or lump on the skin and is typically brown or red.

If you notice this type of growth or any other changes on your skin, it's best to schedule a visit with your Manhattan Dermatology dermatologist for a skin cancer check as soon as possible.

How does my dermatologist diagnose squamous cell carcinoma?

Your expert dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology will do a thorough skin exam along with a biopsy to determine whether your skin growth is squamous cell carcinoma or something else.

If you're dealing with squamous cell carcinoma, your dermatologist can recommend a highly effective treatment solution.

What is the treatment for squamous cell carcinoma?

The dermatologists at Manhattan Dermatology offer cosmetically optimal squamous cell carcinoma or other skin cancer removal. This surgical removal is simple and fast, but it might not be the ideal treatment if the growth is on your face, neck, or scalp.

For most skin cancers on the face, neck, and scalp, Mohs micrographic surgery is preferred to simple surgical removal. Dr. Wendy Long is a fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic surgeon who performs all Mohs surgeries at Manhattan Dermatology.

During Mohs surgery, Dr. Wendy Long removes the cancerous growth and surrounding tissue in tiny increments. She examines the margins — the surrounding tissue she has removed — under a microscope while you're still at Manhattan Dermatology.

Dr. Long removes more tissue only if necessary, and only in tiny quantities that she will then examine once again. She repeats this process until you have clean margins, which means there's no trace of cancer cells left. Dr. Wendy Long is an expert in Mohs surgery with optimal aesthetic results.

Although successful removal is possible, preventing skin cancer in the first place is always best. Be sure to limit sun exposure and take good care of your skin as recommended by your dermatologist to avoid a recurrence.

Scared that you’re seeing squamous cell carcinoma? Book your appointment online or by phone now.

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