Understand the Importance of Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer can develop in areas that receive frequent sun exposure, but it can also appear in places you rarely check. Regular skin cancer screening allows you to discuss unusual changes with a medical professional. At Cornerstone Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center, we help patients in Tulsa, OK, take a proactive approach to monitoring their skin health.
A professional examination can identify suspicious spots that deserve closer attention, even when they cause no discomfort. If you notice a new growth or a mole that changes over time, don't wait for your next routine appointment to seek an evaluation.
Know What to Expect During Your Skin Examination
During a skin cancer screening, your provider examines your skin for unusual spots or changes that may require further evaluation. You can discuss any areas that concern you and share relevant details about your personal or family medical history.
Your provider may look for several warning signs, including:
- Asymmetry: One half of a mole looks different from the other.
- Irregular borders: A mole has uneven or poorly defined edges.
- Color changes: A spot develops multiple colors or changes in appearance.
- Changes over time: A mole grows or begins to bleed.
Your provider may use a handheld magnifying instrument called a dermatoscope to examine certain areas more closely. If a spot raises concern, they can explain whether further testing, such as a skin biopsy, makes sense. A screening helps identify potential problems, but a biopsy may be necessary to establish a diagnosis.
Take the Next Step Toward Healthier Skin
Skin cancer screening is an important part of preventive care, particularly if you have a history of significant sun exposure or previous skin cancer. Your provider can help you understand your individual risk factors and recommend an appropriate schedule for future examinations.
At Cornerstone Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center, we welcome patients from Tulsa, OK, and surrounding communities, including Bixby, Broken Arrow, Jenks, Owasso, Sand Springs, and Muskogee. Working with a dermatologist gives you access to professional guidance when you notice concerning skin changes. Our team can also discuss practical ways to monitor your skin between visits.
Ready to schedule a skin cancer screening? Contact us today to request an appointment.