Basal Cell Carcinoma in Austin, TX

Snyder Dermatology in Austin, TX, directed by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Renee Snyder, treats various forms of skin cancer. Using advanced diagnostic tools, when caught early many skin cancers are curable. One skin cancer that affects millions of men and women each year is basal cell carcinoma (or BCC). BCC generally occurs after exposure to UV light from outdoor sunlight or tanning beds, which causes basal cells in the epidermis mutate and form this very common type of skin cancer.

BCC can initially present as a growth that fails to go away or heal. It is a slow-growing cancer, but it can destructively grow wide and deep with time. For this reason, catching it early allows our doctors here at Snyder Dermatology to treat it effectively. If you have any suspicious lesions or growths on your skin, we invite you to call our office for a full-body skin check.

Skin cancer can affect anyone, but it is especially prevalent in those who have spent years in the sun getting sunburns and/or tanning. Anyone and any area of the skin can be at risk, but those with blonde or red hair, fair skin, and blue/green eyes who are in the sun regularly tend to have more issues. You may also be more susceptible to basal cell carcinoma if you have the following:

• Lesions or open sores that will not heal
• A genetic predisposition that aids in skin cancer growths
• A suppressed immune system
• Skin on the shoulders or back area, as well as the scalp, face, ears, and neck that are regularly exposed to the sun without protection or have had multiple or severe sunburns
• A current skin complication from injury, radiation, excessive scarring, and more

Basal cell carcinomas present as new, growing, sometimes painful or bleeding plaques or bumps that can be pink, red, skin-colored, brown, or white in color. They often have a pearly/shiny appearance.  BCC is commonly found on the sun-exposed areas such as the scalp, face, neck, and top of the hands, but has the potential to develop anywhere on your body.

When a skin growth does not heal or continues to grow, it is a sign of a more serious condition. While BCC is typically curable, the lesions still need to be removed from the skin as soon as possible for the best prognosis. These grow slowly with time. The larger it grows, the more significant the disfigurement. BCCs grow deep and they can ultimately cause nerve and muscle damage as well. 

After confirming the diagnosis of BCC with a skin biopsy, your doctor will discuss the appropriate treatment options for your condition. The treatment for a basal cell carcinoma is based on many factors, including the location, size, and any special microscopic features. Treatment options may include in-office excision, electrodesiccation, and curettage, cryotherapy, or topical chemotherapeutic medication.

Your care is very important to us at Snyder Dermatology. We will talk about your procedure choices in depth at your treatment planning appointment.

We want to set you up for success at Snyder Dermatology. When you face a skin cancer diagnosis, you need a team of medical professionals that are dedicated to your well-being and have the knowledge and experience to treat your condition effectively for long-term health. Dr. Snyder and our other providers are compassionate and trained to treat skin cancers of various types. If you are concerned about your skin, we invite you to call our Austin, TX office to schedule your appointment today.