Skin Checks

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in the United States. At the office of family medicine physician Alexander Owens, DO, in Naples, Florida, skin checks are available to look for cancer or other skin abnormalities. Some skin growths have the potential to affect your health or appearance. If you notice a change in the color, shape, or size of any moles on your body, call the office or request an appointment online for a skin check today.

Skin Checks Q & A

What is a skin check?

A skin check is a visual exam of your skin. The screening looks for moles, birthmarks, or lesions that are unusual in their size, texture, shape, or color.

During a skin check, Dr. Owens provides a head-to-toe assessment of your skin. He even looks in areas that are hard for you to check yourself, such as your back, buttocks, and between your toes.

What does a skin check look for?

A skin check looks for skin abnormalities or irregularities. These include:

• Cysts
• Skin cancer
• Precancerous lesions
• Unusual moles

In some cases, a lesion or irregular mole requires further investigation. Dr. Owens can take a sample of the lesion and send it to a lab for diagnosis in a procedure known as a biopsy.

How are irregular skin lesions treated?

Treatment depends on the nature of your skin’s irregularity. Moles, for example, are generally not harmful unless they start to morph in their size, shape, or color. But some people have moles that are cosmetically unattractive or that uncomfortably rub against clothing. Some moles can are treatable with cryotherapy, which uses controlled frostbite to destroy mole tissue.

If you have skin cancer that is localized and not in a sensitive place, Dr. Owens can provide superficial treatments such as a minor surgical excision or cryotherapy to remove it.

Cysts are prone to infection and discomfort. Treatment includes excision and drainage.

Who is at greatest risk of skin cancer?

Anyone can get skin cancer, but some people are more prone than others. These include those with:

• Light skin tone
• Blond or red hair
• Light-colored eyes
• Family or personal history of skin cancer
• Large number of moles
• Skin that burns or freckles easily

Dr. Owens can let you know how often you would benefit from skin checks.

When should I get a skin check?

Most people should get a skin check once per year. If you see an unusual lesion or notice changes in an existing mole or freckle, contact Dr. Owens’ office right away for a professional evaluation. Changes that are of concern include:

• A mole that’s painful to the touch
• Lesions that become shiny, pink, pearly white, or translucent
• Mole borders that become irregular or change in size

Regular skin checks help preserve your overall health. Schedule yours with Alexander Owens, DO, by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.