Skin Cancer Removal Specialist in Wisconsin
Dr. Steffes is a board-certified dermatologist skilled in the removal of skin cancer. He'll work with you to effectively combat and treat your skin cancer through personalized treatments. Request a consultation with Dr. Steffes today.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the rapid growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin. Most cases of skin cancer are caused by increased UV exposure from the sun, tanning beds, or sunlamps. UV damage accumulates over time and changes the skin’s texture and appearance. Anyone can develop skin cancer, but people with certain characteristics are at a higher risk:
- Lighter skin
- Skin the burns easily
- Blue or green eyes
- Blond or red hair
- Individuals with a large number of moles
- Family history of skin cancer
- Personal history of skin cancer
- Older age
Quick Facts on Melanoma
Melanoma is a serious skin cancer that ranks as the 5th most common cancer in the United States. It is also responsible for 80% of all skin cancer deaths. On a global scale, Melanoma accounts for 1.7% of all cancer diagnoses. Over the past few decades, the incidence of Melanoma has grown by 320% in the US. Sadly, the survival rate for individuals with stage IV Melanoma is only 29.8%.
Data courtesy of The National Library of Medicine.
Types of Skin Cancer
3 Most Common Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and usually develops in individuals with fairer skin. BCC’s often look like a flesh-colored round growth, pearl-like bump, or a pink patch of skin. Frequent sun exposure and tanning is the most common cause of BCC.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer. SCC often looks like a red firm bump, a scaly patch, or a sore. SCC is mostly found on the rim of the ear, face, neck, arms, chest, and back- areas that receive the most sun exposure.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer because it can spread within the body. Melanoma may develop within an existing mole or suddenly appear as a dark spot. Early detection is crucial to the prognosis and successful treatment.
Available Skin Cancer Treatments
At DCP, you can get professional skin cancer treatment from Dr. Steffes, including Mohs surgery, curettage, surgical excision, and topical chemotherapy medical dermatology treatments. His focus is on the health and beauty of your skin by using a patient-centered, customized approach to ensure you get the best results. Request your consultation at DCP today.
MOHS Surgery for Skin Cancer
DCP offers Mohs surgery for skin cancer treatment. Dr. Frederick Mohs developed microscopically controlled surgery in the 1940s as a more precise way to remove skin cancer. The technique has been refined over the years to the point where the skin cancer is removed and examined under the microscope for any remaining tumor almost immediately. The basic principle behind the Mohs technique is to remove the entire skin cancer without taking any more normal skin than is necessary.
Since Mohs surgery requires highly-trained personnel and can be time-consuming, it is reserved only for certain cases that require tissue-sparing, precise margin control. Dr. Steffes has years of experience performing Mohs surgery and will guide you through the initial process to determine if this form of treatment is right for you.
Why Choose Dermatology & Cosmetic Physicians for Skin Cancer Removal?
Dr. Steffes will guide you through the skin cancer removal process. He has treated thousands of skin cancer patients with Mohs surgery and other treatments. All patients are cared for with respect, confidentiality, and kindness. Contact us to experience the DCP difference.
Dr. Steffes provides skin cancer removal treatments to patients out of West Bend, Fond Du Lac, Waukesha, Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Chicago, and beyond.
Hair Loss Treatments
FAQ
How much does treatment for skin cancer cost?
The cost of skin cancer treatment in Wisconsin hospital systems ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, with an average cost between $8,000 to $10,000. At Dermatology and Cosmetic Physicians, Dr. Steffes can treat your skin cancer in an outpatient setting with no hidden fees. Costs range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the cancer type, treatment regimen, number of sessions and your health insurance coverage.
What is the most common treatment for skin cancer?
Mohs surgery is the primary treatment for most skin cancers on the head and neck. If caught during the early stages, an outpatient procedure may be performed using a local anesthetic.
Can skin cancers be cured?
Skin cancers can be cured if found and treated properly. At DCP, Dr. Steffes, a board-certified dermatologist, will determine the most effective treatment for your situation in order to mitigate and remove skin cancer.