A spot on the skin that won’t heal, bleeds easily, or slowly changes over time should never be ignored. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and early treatment leads to excellent outcomes.
Basal cell carcinoma treatment focuses on complete removal of the cancer while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. This page explains what basal cell carcinoma is, how it develops, and the treatment options available.
At ProDerm Skin & Surgery in Austin, Dr. Sydney Larkin Proffer provides highly specialized skin cancer care, including advanced surgical techniques, with a focus on safety and long-term skin health.
What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that develops from basal cells in the top layer of the skin.
It most commonly appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, and shoulders.
Common Signs and Symptoms
- A pearly or translucent bump
- A sore that does not heal or repeatedly bleeds
- A flat, scaly patch
- A scar-like area without a clear injury
- Changes in size, color, or texture of a lesion
What Causes Basal Cell Carcinoma?
- Cumulative sun exposure
- History of sunburns
- Tanning bed use
- Fair skin or light eye color
- Personal or family history of skin cancer
How Basal Cell Carcinoma Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a thorough skin examination.
A skin biopsy is typically performed to confirm the diagnosis before treatment.
Treatment Options
- Topical prescriptions – for superficial BCCs in certain cases
- Electrodessication & Curettage (ED&C) – scraping and cauterizing the lesion
- Surgical excision – removing the lesion with a margin of healthy tissue
- Mohs surgery – in cosmetically sensitive or high-risk areas such as the face, where precision is critical
Why Choose ProDerm Skin & Surgery for Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment?
Dr. Proffer is fellowship-trained in Mohs micrographic surgery, a precise, tissue-sparing technique with high cure rates.
Comprehensive care allows for diagnosis, treatment, and reconstruction under one provider.
Conclusion
Basal cell carcinoma is highly treatable, especially when detected early.
To schedule a skin cancer evaluation at ProDerm Skin & Surgery in Austin, TX, call (512) 535-6000.