Skin Cancer Treatments
Early diagnosis and proper skin cancer treatment can prevent complications and help protect your overall health. At the practice of Dr. Ralph A. Massey, we offer expert care for patients with a wide range of skin cancer types. With offices in Santa Monica and Encino, you’ll receive highly focused medical and surgical options from a trusted skin cancer specialist.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are several forms of skin cancer, each with its warning signs, risks, and treatment needs. Understanding the differences can help you spot problems early and choose the right course of action with your provider.
Basal Cell Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. It typically appears as a pearly bump or pink growth on sun-exposed areas like the nose, forehead, or shoulders. Although it rarely spreads to other body parts, untreated basal cell cancers can grow deep and damage nearby tissues.
Squamous Cell Cancer
Squamous cell carcinoma often appears as a rough, scaly patch or a sore that doesn’t heal. If not treated early, it is more likely than basal cell carcinoma to spread to other areas of the body. Prompt skin cancer removal is essential to prevent more serious complications.
Melanoma
Melanoma is less common but more aggressive. It usually begins in an existing mole or appears as a new dark spot with irregular edges and color variation. Dr. Massey offers highly skilled Melanoma diagnosis & treatment in Santa Monica for patients needing expert intervention.
Comprehensive Skin Cancer Treatment Options
Dr. Massey offers several treatments for both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. The best approach depends on the cancer type, location, depth, and overall health. Some patients benefit from a simple procedure, while others may need a more advanced, multi-step strategy.
Treatment options may include:
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery – Considered the gold standard for high-risk areas like the face or ears. It offers the highest cure rate while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
- Standard Excision – Often used for low-risk cancers. This method removes the tumor with a wider margin of surrounding skin to help reduce recurrence.
- Curettage and Electrodessication – A scraping and burning technique ideal for small, superficial cancers on the body. Not typically used on the face or for aggressive subtypes.
- Cryotherapy – Uses freezing to destroy cancer cells. It’s a quick, non-surgical option for select superficial lesions.
- Topical Therapies – In some early-stage cases, creams like imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil may be used. These can cause inflammation and aren’t always the first choice, but may work well for specific patients.
- Radiation Therapy – Reserved for patients who can’t undergo surgery or for aggressive tumors that need combined treatment. Radiation typically involves multiple visits and may come with skin irritation or fatigue.
- Reconstructive Surgery – Offered when cancer removal affects appearance or function, especially around the eyes, nose, or lips.
Dr. Massey personally evaluates every case and performs all procedures himself at his certified outpatient facility in Santa Monica. Through the Skin Cancer Group, he coordinates advanced testing, sentinel lymph node biopsies, and referrals for systemic therapies when needed.
Why Choose Ralph A. Massey, MD
Dr. Ralph Massey is a fellowship-trained, board-certified Mohs surgeon with advanced training from Columbia University and a background from Cambridge and London. He has earned national recognition for his work in dermatologic surgery, including the prestigious Tromovitch Award.
As Director of the Skin Cancer Group and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Santa Monica, he performs all treatments at his certified facility. Patients in Santa Monica and Encino trust Dr. Massey for his surgical skill, academic leadership, and commitment to care that prioritizes medical outcomes and cosmetic preservation.
Ready To Discuss Skin Cancer Treatment In Santa Monica or Encino?
Your skin deserves the highest standard of care. Whether you need a biopsy, surgery, or a second opinion, Dr. Massey offers safe, trusted options for skin cancer treatment in Santa Monica and in Encino.
Schedule your consultation today and take the next step with confidence.