skin cancer, skin check, Melanoma, signs of, Mohs Surgery, treating skin cancers, basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, grand rapids

Skin Cancer

Melanoma is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer and most commonly results from overexposure to the sun. While these strange patches of skin appear small, they become dangerous when left untreated. If you notice one of the ABCDE’s in a mole, it’s time for a checkup:

  • Asymmetry
  • Odd or Undefined Borders
  • Strange Color
  • Large Diameter
  • Evolving or Growing Mole

These symptoms should not be taken lightly. Regular skin exams by a professional can be life-saving. We can help you prevent, detect and perform all the best Skin Cancer Treatments available. At Dermatology Institute of West Michigan, we specialize in advanced skin cancer treatment for patients in Grand Rapids, Holland, and the surrounding areas.

Pre-Cancerous Treatment Options:

Image-Guided Superficial Radiotherapy (IG-SRT)

Image-Guided Superficial Radiotherapy (IG-SRT) offers a non-invasive treatment approach for the most common types of non-melanoma skin cancers. IG-SRT is an FDA-approved treatment for eligible basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. As the only office in the Grand Rapids and Petoskey area to
offer IG-SRT, our team is committed to providing options to best fit you.

IG-SRT uses low-energy x-rays, like that of the levels used in dental x-rays, over the course of several treatments. These levels of x-rays are both safe and effective when used to treat superficial skin cancers. Treatments are administered by our board-certified radiation therapist, under the supervision of your dermatologist.

IG-SRT is the only skin cancer treatment with high-frequency ultrasound imaging. This allows your doctor to visualize the cancer, precisely target the tumor, and watch it shrink over the course of treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long would I be in the office for treatment?

  • Treatment appointments are scheduled for about 10 minutes.

Do I have to limit what I do during treatment?

  • One benefit of IG-SRT is no interruption to your everyday activities.

How many treatments would I need?

  • The most typical course of treatment is 3-4 visits per week for a total of 5-7 weeks.

What are the most common types of skin cancer?

  • The most common types of skin cancer are: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) and Melanoma.

What is the healing time after the treatments are complete?

  • IG-SRT offers a short healing time of about 3-4 weeks.

Patient Success Stories: Before IG-SRT vs. After IG-SRT

kin cancer screening during full body skin exam skin cancer treatments, early‑stage non‑melanoma, skin cancer, NMSC

Analysis of Image‑Guided Superficial Radiotherapy (IG-SRT) on the treatment of early‑stage non‑melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in the outpatient dermatology setting. Image-guided superficial radiation therapy (IGSRT) 

Skin Cancer Screening in West Michigan

Early detection saves lives and regular skin cancer screenings are your first line of defense. At the Dermatology Institute of West Michigan, we provide thorough, head-to-toe skin checks to identify suspicious moles, lesions, or changes that may indicate skin cancer. Whether you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, or you've noticed a new or changing spot, our board-certified dermatologists are here to help.

We screen for all major types of skin cancer including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, using the latest diagnostic tools and techniques. Our goal is to detect issues early, when they’re most treatable.

Why Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening?

  • You have a history of sunburns or tanning bed use
  • You’ve noticed a new or changing mole
  • You have a personal or family history of skin cancer
  • You’re over age 40 or have fair skin

Don’t wait until you see a problem! Schedule your skin cancer screening today and take control of your skin health.

What to Expect During a Full Body Skin Check

Don’t wait until you see a problem! Schedule your skin cancer screening today and take control of your skin health. During your full body skin check, one of our board-certified dermatologists will examine your entire body, from scalp to soles, for unusual moles, discoloration, or growths. We respect your comfort and privacy and provide gowns and clear communication throughout the process.

We check:

  • Scalp and face
  • Neck and chest
  • Back and abdomen
  • Arms, legs, hands, and feet
  • Between toes and under nails
  • Sensitive areas, if needed (with your consent)

Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is one of the most effective techniques for treating common skin cancers. It's commonly used in treating basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. The procedure is done in stages and includes lab work in between to allow for the highest cure rate. The procedure helps to spare healthy tissue and leave the smallest possible scar.