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Treat Skin Cancer in West Hills, CA

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Early Detection for Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell, and More

Skin cancer is the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost skin layer. It is caused by unrepaired DNA damage that triggers mutations, which cause the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. The main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

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The Different Types of Skin Cancer We Treat


Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

What it is:

The most common type of skin cancer, BCC starts in the basal cells of the skin, which are responsible for producing new skin cells. It grows slowly and rarely spreads but can cause damage if untreated.

What it looks like:

    A pearly, skin-colored, or pink bump
    A sore that won’t heal or keeps bleeding
    A flat, scar-like patch of skin
    A shiny, waxy area that may be red or brown

Early Detection:

    Check for new, unusual growths, especially on sun-exposed areas (face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders).
    See a dermatologist if a spot doesn’t heal, bleeds, or changes over time.


Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

What it is:

The second most common type of skin cancer, SCC, develops in the outer layer of the skin (squamous cells). If not treated, it can grow deeper and spread.

What it looks like:

    A rough, scaly patch that may bleed or crust over
    A firm, red bump or growth
    A sore that doesn’t heal or keeps reopening
    Wart-like growths

Early Detection:

    Pay attention to new or changing rough patches, especially on sun-exposed areas.
    Get checked if a sore doesn’t heal within a few weeks.


Melanoma

What it is:

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It starts in pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) and can spread quickly if not detected early.

What it looks like:

Melanomas follow the ABCDE rule:

    A – Asymmetry (one half looks different from the other)
    B – Border (irregular, jagged, or blurry edges)
    C – Color (multiple colors like black, brown, red, or blue)
    D – Diameter (larger than a pencil eraser, but can be smaller)
    E – Evolving (changes in size, shape, or color over time)

Early Detection:

    Do monthly skin checks for unusual moles or spots.
    If a mole looks different or changes, see a dermatologist immediately.


Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC)

What it is:

A rare but aggressive skin cancer that starts in Merkel cells, found in the skin’s top layer. MCC can spread quickly to other parts of the body.

What it looks like:

    A fast-growing, painless lump (often red, pink, or purple)
    A shiny or firm dome-shaped bump
    Found mostly on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, or arms

Early Detection:

    Watch for new, fast-growing lumps, especially if they appear shiny.
    If a bump grows rapidly or color changes, get it checked by a doctor.

The Impact of Early Detection for Skin Cancer

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Detecting skin cancer early is crucial—especially since it can significantly increase the chances of successful treatments and reduce the severity of the situation. When we can identify cancer early, it is often more responsive to treatments, meaning we can use less aggressive treatment, minimizing the physical and emotional impact. Early detection also increases the survival rates, especially for melanoma which is often a highly aggressive form of cancer. When we can catch it before it spreads, the five-year survival rate for melanoma is usually 99%. However, the survival rate can drop dramatically once it metastasizes to other organs. This is why early detection is so important. At the first sign of something unusual, you should seek medical and professional help.

What are Early Warning Signs of Skin Cancer?

It is up to you to catch the early warning signs of skin cancer. But what should you look for? Some of the most common signs of skin cancer include:

    Open sores that heal and reopen
    Red patches or irritated areas
    Scaly, red patches that crust or bleed
    Firm, wart-like, or elevated growths
    Large brownish spot with dark areas


Can I Check Myself for Skin Cancer at Home?

You can continually conduct at-home screenings. Here is what we recommend:

    Knowing the common skin cancer symptoms
    Routine self-examinations
    Regular professional screenings to improve prognosis if you discover cancer.

It is important to remember that skin cancer is almost always most treatable during its earliest stages.


How Do I Keep Myself Safe?

Here are some things you can do to keep yourself safe from skin cancer:

    Perform monthly self-exams, checking for new or changing spots.
    Look at all areas, including your back, scalp, and under nails.
    Protect your skin with sunscreen (SPF 30+), hats, and UV-blocking clothing.
    Get an annual skin exam with a dermatologist, or sooner if you notice any suspicious changes.

If you spot something unusual, don’t wait—schedule a skin check! Early detection makes all the difference.

Skin Cancer Treatment Option at West Hills Dermatology

West Hills Dermatology is proud to offer early cancer screenings and treatments in West Hills, California. We offer Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy, or IG-SRT. This treatment is a safe, painless, and highly effective alternative to surgical skin cancer treatment. Our IG-SRT treatments successfully treat Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma and Basal Cell Carcinoma, with a 99% cure rate.
At West Hills Dermatology, we’re committed to delivering expert skin cancer care with a focus on early detection, effective treatment, and patient comfort. Located in West Hills, California, our dermatology center offers a range of advanced, non-invasive, and surgical treatment options for patients diagnosed with skin cancer or pre-cancerous lesions. We specialize in treating non-melanoma skin cancers, including Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), with an emphasis on precision and successful outcomes.

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Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT)

IG-SRT is a non-surgical, FDA-cleared treatment that uses targeted, low-energy radiation to destroy cancerous cells at the skin’s surface. It is especially effective for patients diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancers, including BCC and SCC. At West Hills Dermatology, we proudly offer IG-SRT as an advanced option for patients seeking a painless, scar-free alternative to surgery.

This treatment incorporates high-resolution ultrasound imaging to precisely map the size, shape, and depth of the tumor before and during therapy. This ensures highly targeted treatment and helps preserve surrounding healthy tissue. IG-SRT offers an exceptional cure rate of up to 99% for non-melanoma skin cancers. It’s ideal for patients who want to avoid surgery or have tumors in cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, scalp, or ears.

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Mohs Surgery

For patients who require surgical treatment, we offer Mohs micrographic surgery—the gold standard for treating skin cancers with a high risk of recurrence or those located in delicate areas. This precise surgical technique involves removing thin layers of skin one at a time, which are then immediately examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. The process continues until no cancer cells are detected. Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rates—up to 99%—while sparing the greatest amount of healthy tissue. It is particularly recommended for aggressive or recurring skin cancers and is performed on-site at West Hills Dermatology by experienced, board-certified dermatologic surgeons.

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Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic Therapy is a non-invasive treatment used primarily for precancerous lesions, such as actinic keratoses. PDT involves applying a light-sensitive topical agent to the skin, which is then activated by a specific wavelength of light. This process selectively destroys abnormal or precancerous cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
PDT is an excellent preventive treatment option that not only removes precancerous growths but also improves the overall texture and appearance of sun-damaged skin. It is especially beneficial for patients with multiple lesions or those who prefer a non-surgical approach. We understand that every patient’s needs are unique. That’s why we offer personalized treatment plans designed to provide the highest levels of care, comfort, and long-term success. Whether you’re seeking a non-invasive therapy like IG-SRT or a proven surgical approach like Mohs, our team is here to guide you through every step of your skin cancer treatment journey.

Why Choose West Hills Dermatology

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Not all radiation-based treatments for skin cancer are the same. The safety, cure rates, and cosmetic outcomes vary depending on the technology and clinical protocols. That’s why we choose GentleCure (Image-Guided SRT), the only skin cancer treatment with advanced imaging that allows us to see, measure, and precisely adapt the dose to your needs at every stage of treatment.

GentleCure has been proven to be the safest and most effective radiation-based treatment for skin cancer. It delivers superior cosmetic results without surgery or scarring. If you are considering radiation therapy, ensure you’re getting the most advanced, safe, and gentle treatment available today.

At West Hills Dermatology Group, we have been a trusted name in dermatology for over 24 years, with Dr. Gaminchi reaching 25 years of practice in February. Our board-certified dermatologists are dedicated to providing expert medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology care tailored to you and your family. We combine decades of experience with the latest advancements in dermatology to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Your skin health is our priority. Trust the experts who prioritize safety, precision, and your well-being. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how GentleCure can help you.

Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening Today in West Hills, CA

If you think you may have skin cancer, don’t wait. Schedule your screening today for early detection and treatment if needed. Call West Hills Dermatology at (818) 592-6005 to schedule yours today. We proudly offer the best skin cancer treatment options in the West Hills, California, for our clients living in and around Bell Canyon, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, and Thousand Oaks.
Early Detection Saves Lives – Book an Exam Now!

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Address

7230 Medical Center Drive, Suite 404, West Hills, CA 91307

Phone

(818) 592-6005

Fax

(818) 592-6088

Email

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© Created by DearDoc

All Rights Reserved West Hills Dermatology

Pay with Cherry

● Legal

Address

7230 Medical Center Drive, Suite 404, West Hills, CA 91307

Phone

(818) 592-6005

Fax

(818) 592-6088

Email

moc.oohay%40mredsllihtsew

© Created by DearDoc

All Rights Reserved West Hills Dermatology