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Skin Cancer Screening at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

At Dermatology Associates of Ithaca, skin cancer screening is a core part of our commitment to lifelong skin health. Our board-certified dermatology providers perform comprehensive skin checks designed to detect skin cancer early, when it is most treatable. Whether you are coming in for your first skin exam or returning for routine monitoring, our team provides attentive, expert care in a comfortable and respectful setting.
Regular skin checks are especially important for patients with a history of sun exposure, prior skin cancer, changing moles, or a family history of skin cancer. We also encourage anyone with concerns about a new or changing spot to schedule an evaluation.

What to Expect During a Skin Check

A skin cancer screening at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca is straightforward, thorough, and focused on your comfort.
During your visit, your provider will:
  • Review your personal and family history of skin cancer
  • Ask about sun exposure, tanning history, and any areas of concern
  • Perform a head-to-toe visual examination of your skin, including the scalp, nails, and less visible areas
  • Examine moles, freckles, and other lesions for signs of skin cancer or precancerous change

Feeling Nervous?

Check Our Our Skin Cancer Handout: LINK HERE
If a suspicious area is identified, your provider may recommend a skin biopsy. This is a quick, in-office procedure performed with local anesthesia. If needed, we will explain every step and answer your questions before proceeding.
At the end of your visit, you will receive guidance on sun protection, self-skin exams, and how often future screenings are recommended based on your individual risk.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening With One of Our Providers

Why Is Skin Cancer Screening So Important?

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Each year, more than 5.4 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are treated in over 3.3 million people. While skin cancer is often highly curable when detected early, delayed diagnosis can lead to disfigurement, serious complications, and even death.
Regular skin examinations are the most effective way to detect skin cancer early. A professional skin exam allows suspicious lesions to be identified and treated before they grow deeper or spread. Early detection truly saves lives.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening

Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each type can appear differently on the skin, which is why knowing the warning signs and monitoring for change is so important.
Skin cancers are often painless. Do not ignore a spot simply because it does not hurt. Any new, changing, or unusual lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Learn more about skin cancer diagnosis and treatment on our Skin Cancer Treatments page.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening

Warning Signs of Melanoma: The ABCDEs

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, but it is highly treatable when caught early. Use the ABCDEs as a guide when examining your skin:

A | Asymmetry

One half of the mole or spot does not match the other.

B | Border

Edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.

C | Color

Color varies from one area to another and may include shades of tan, brown, black, white, red, or blue.

D | Diameter

Melanomas are often larger than 6 mm, about the size of a pencil eraser, but they can be smaller.

E | Evolving

A mole or lesion that is changing in size, shape, texture, or color, or looks different from others on your body.
If you notice one or more of these signs, contact our office promptly for an evaluation.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer detection guide for patients in Cortland NY

Other Types of Skin Cancer and Precancerous Lesions

Atypical skin lesion examined by dermatologist in Cortland NY

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Often appears as a flesh-colored or pearly bump, or a pinkish patch of skin.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

May appear as a firm red bump, scaly patch, or a sore that heals and then returns.

Actinic Keratoses (AKs)

Dry, scaly patches or spots caused by sun damage. These are considered precancerous and should be evaluated and treated.

Sun Protection and Prevention

Approximately 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with ultraviolet radiation from the sun. While sunscreen is an important tool, it should be combined with other protective measures such as protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding peak sun hours.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening

How Is Skin Cancer Diagnosed?

If a lesion appears abnormal during your exam, your provider may recommend a skin biopsy. The area is numbed, and a small sample of skin is removed and sent to a pathologist for evaluation under a microscope. Testing suspicious lesions early allows skin cancer to be treated before it grows deeper or spreads.
Early diagnosis offers the best chance for cure and the least invasive treatment.

Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening

Concerned about a spot on your skin or due for a routine check? Our experienced dermatology providers are here to help.
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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