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Pre-Cancer Treatment at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

At Dermatology Associates of Ithaca, we diagnose and treat precancerous skin lesions to help prevent the development of skin cancer. Precancerous changes in the skin are common, especially in individuals with a history of sun exposure, and early treatment plays a critical role in protecting long-term skin health.
Our board-certified dermatology providers offer personalized care in a supportive, comfortable environment. If you have been told you have a precancerous lesion or are concerned about rough, scaly, or changing spots on your skin, our team is here to help.

What to Expect During a Pre-Cancer Evaluation

A precancer evaluation focuses on identifying abnormal skin changes and determining the most appropriate treatment.
During your visit, your provider will:
  • Review your medical history and sun exposure
  • Ask about symptoms such as roughness, tenderness, or recurring spots
  • Examine areas of sun-damaged skin
  • Identify precancerous lesions, most commonly actinic keratoses
    Discuss treatment options based on the number, location, and severity of lesions
In some cases, a skin biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis before treatment. If a biopsy is needed, your provider will explain the procedure and next steps in detail.
Schedule a Pre-Cancer Evaluation

Why Treating Pre-Cancer Is Important

Precancerous lesions represent early changes in skin cells caused by cumulative sun damage. While not all precancerous lesions will progress to skin cancer, some can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
Treating precancerous lesions:
Reduces the risk of progression to skin cancer
Helps address widespread sun damage
Allows for less invasive treatment when caught early
Supports long-term skin health and prevention
Early evaluation and treatment can make a meaningful difference.
Schedule an Appointment

Common Types of Precancerous Skin Lesions

Actinic Keratoses (AKs)

Actinic keratoses are the most common type of precancerous skin lesion. They often appear as rough, dry, scaly patches that may be pink, red, or flesh-colored. AK’s are typically found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, hands, and forearms.
These lesions may be easier to feel than see and can sometimes be tender or itchy.

Pre-Cancer Treatment Options

Treatment recommendations depend on the number of lesions, their location, and the extent of sun damage.
Treatment options may include:
Cryotherapy, which uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal cells
Topical prescription medications, designed to treat visible and microscopic precancerous cells
Photodynamic therapy (PDT), when appropriate
Close monitoring, in select cases
Your provider will discuss the benefits and expectations of each option and recommend the approach best suited to your skin.
Schedule an Appointment

Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Ongoing Monitoring and Prevention

Patients with precancerous lesions are at increased risk for developing additional lesions and skin cancer in the future. Ongoing care is an important part of prevention.
We provide guidance on:
  • Regular full skin exams
  • Sun protection strategies
  • Performing self-skin checks at home
  • How often follow-up visits are recommended based on your risk

Sun Protection and Skin Cancer Prevention

Most precancerous skin lesions are caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Protecting your skin is essential in preventing further damage.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening

Schedule a Pre-Cancer Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with a precancerous skin lesion or are concerned about sun-damaged areas of your skin, our dermatology providers are here to help you take the next step.
Schedule an Appointment

What Our Patients Say

4.9
stars rating on Google with 950+ reviews
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Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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