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Houston Basal Cell Skin Cancer Removal

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. While it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause significant damage to the skin and underlying tissue if left untreated. Early detection and proper treatment are essential for both your health and your cosmetic appearance.

If you are looking for a Houston basal cell skin cancer specialist, Dr. Anthony Nikko offers advanced diagnostic screenings and removal techniques, focusing on both medical safety and preservation of your own skin.

What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma arises from the basal cells in the outermost layer of your skin (epidermis). These cells are responsible for producing new skin as old cells shed. When their DNA is damaged- often by ultraviolet (UV) exposure- they can grow uncontrollably, leading to BCC.

Although basal cell carcinoma is considered a type of keratinocyte carcinoma, it can enlarge, invade deeper layers of skin, and cause disfigurement if untreated.

What Does Basal Cell Carcinoma Look Like?

Basal cell carcinoma can appear in different forms. Common features include:

A pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels.
A flat, scaly skin growth with a raised edge.
A sore that doesn’t heal or repeatedly returns.
A pink growth with a rolled border.
In rare cases, a white or scar-like lesion may occur.

What Causes Basal Cell Carcinoma?

There are several risk factors that contribute to the development of BCC:

1. Exposure to Sun and UV Radiation

Long-term sun exposure, especially without protection, or use of tanning beds, leads to an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma. People with fair skin and light colored eyes have to be more cautious.

2. Genetics and Family History

Having a family member with a history of skin cancer increases the chance of developing it yourself.

3. Age Groups

BCC is most common in older age groups, but younger individuals with frequent sunburns are also vulnerable.

4. Personal History of Skin Cancer

A personal history of basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma increases the chance of recurrence.

5. Immune System Health and Other Factors

A weakened immune system, chronic skin conditions, or other factors like prior radiation therapy may also elevate the risk.

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Types of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Nodular BCC – The most common type, presenting as a pearly bump.

2. Superficial BCC – Flat, red patches that resemble eczema or psoriasis.

3. Morpheaform BCC – Less common, appearing as a scar-like lesion that grows deeper into tissue.

4. Pigmented BCC – Darker in color with pigmentation.

How is Basal Cell Skin Cancer Screening Done?

Screening begins with a full-body skin exam performed by a dermatologist. Sometimes, a doctor can find cancer with the naked eye, but suspicious lesions often require further evaluation.

Medical history – Reviewing your background, sun exposure, medications, and prior cancers.

Dermatoscope exam – Magnified inspection of the suspicious area.

Skin biopsy – Removing a small sample for lab testing. This is the only reliable way to confirm a diagnosis.

Documentation and Monitoring – Photos may be used to track changes over time.

When a dermatologist finds an unusual lesion, a biopsy is the most reliable method for confirming cancer. Screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society emphasize the importance of self-exams in detecting cancers that can be found early.

What is Basal Cell Carcinoma Removal?

The goal of treatment is to remove cancerous cells completely while preserving cosmetic appearance.

Techniques for Basal Cell Carcinoma Removal

1. Surgical Excision

Surgical excision is one of the most common and reliable treatments for basal cell carcinoma. During this procedure, the dermatologist numbs the area, then removes the cancerous lesion along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue. This margin ensures that no microscopic cancer cells are left behind. The tissue is then sent to a pathology lab to confirm complete removal. Surgical excision has a very high cure rate, especially for small to medium lesions, and is often performed on the trunk, arms, or legs, where there is more skin flexibility for sutures. While the procedure may leave a fine scar, it typically heals well and is a strong option for long-term cancer control.

2. Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating high-risk basal cell carcinomas, especially in areas where preserving as much healthy tissue as possible is crucial, such as the face, ears, or eyelids. The process involves removing the tumor layer by layer and examining each layer immediately under a microscope. This continues until no cancer cells are detected. The advantage of Mohs surgery is its precision; it allows maximum removal of cancer while sparing the most healthy tissue, making it ideal for cosmetically sensitive areas. Mohs surgery also boasts the highest cure rate of all treatments, often up to 99%, making it especially valuable for recurrent or aggressive basal cell carcinomas.

3. Curettage and Electrodessication (C&E)
Curettage and electrodessication is a technique used for smaller, superficial basal cell carcinomas. In this procedure, the tumor is scraped away with a curette, and then the remaining area is cauterized with an electric needle to destroy any residual cancer cells.
C&E can be performed in a dermatologist’s office without the need for stitches. It is cost-effective and efficient, but it does have slightly lower cure rates than excision or Mohs surgery. It is also not recommended for aggressive tumors or cancers located in high-risk areas like the nose or eyelids. Patients should expect a round, pale scar at the site, but for small, low-risk tumors, this remains an excellent option.

4. Topical and Light-Based Therapies
Non-surgical therapies are sometimes recommended for very superficial basal cell carcinomas, particularly when patients want to avoid cutting or scarring. Topical treatments include prescription creams like imiquimod, which stimulates the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells, and 5-fluorouracil, a chemotherapy cream that destroys abnormal skin cells. Another option is photodynamic therapy (PDT), in which a special light-sensitive medication is applied to the skin and then activated by a medical light source, targeting and destroying the cancer cells. These treatments are especially useful for multiple small cancers or those located on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face. However, they are not recommended for deeper or more aggressive basal cell carcinomas, and close follow-up is necessary to ensure the cancer does not return.

Potential Complications of BCC Removal

While complications are rare, they can include:
Minor scarring.

Infection at the wound site.
Delayed healing.
Recurrence if cells are not fully removed.

Why At-Home Treatment is Not Safe

Attempting to treat basal cell carcinoma at home is unsafe. Without a proper medical evaluation, you cannot confirm whether a lesion is benign, precancerous, or cancerous. Professional health care ensures proper diagnosis and removal.

Why At-Home Treatment is Not Safe

Takeaway

Basal cell carcinoma is highly treatable, especially when detected early. If you or a loved one notices unusual changes in the skin, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with our providers for professional evaluation and safe, effective removal.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if a skin lesion is cancer?

Only a skin biopsy can confirm if there is developing skin cancer. However, warning signs to look out for include sores that don’t heal, growths that change in size, shape, or color, and lesions that bleed, itch, or cause pain. Some skin cancers may also appear as pearly bumps, flat scaly patches, or scar-like areas. If you notice any persistent or unusual changes, it’s important to schedule an evaluation with a dermatologist.

Can BCC spread to other parts of the body?

It is extremely rare for basal cell carcinoma to spread (metastasize) to other organs. However, untreated BCC can continue to grow, damaging local skin, cartilage, and bone, and in very advanced cases may affect nearby lymph nodes. This is why early detection and professional removal are strongly recommended, even though the overall risk of spread is low compared to melanoma.

How can I lower my risk?

Protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays is the most effective way to reduce your risk. Use sunscreen daily, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds. Performing monthly self-exams can help you detect changes early, and routine visits with your dermatologist allow for professional monitoring. Preventive advice is consistent with recommendations from the National Cancer Institute and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

Does having BCC once mean I’ll get it again?

Yes. A personal history of basal cell carcinoma increases the likelihood of recurrence, either in the same spot or in other areas of the skin. People who have had one BCC are also at an increased risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer or other forms of nonmelanoma skin cancer in the future. Ongoing skin checks and follow-up care are essential to catch new lesions at an early stage.

What do experts recommend?

Dermatology experts recommend consistent sun protection, regular skin self-exams, and professional full-body skin screenings as the most effective prevention strategies. For higher-risk patients, such as those with multiple prior skin cancers or weakened immune systems, more frequent checkups may be advised. Research shows that early detection and treatment, whether through surgical excision, Mohs surgery, or other therapies, lead to the best long-term outcomes.