About Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment Services
That pearly bump or sore that heals and reopens isn’t something to keep an eye on indefinitely—it’s something to get checked.
At Charleston Dermatology, our physicians and providers diagnose BCC with a skin exam and biopsy, then determine which treatment fits the tumor’s size, depth, and location. A BCC on the nose calls for a different approach than one on the back.
Treatment plans are built around your diagnosis and may include Mohs micrographic surgery for high cure rates in cosmetically sensitive areas, surgical excision, electrodesiccation and curettage, or topical treatments for certain superficial tumors. Caught early, BCC is highly curable. Schedule a visit and let our team take care of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is basal cell carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that begins in the basal cells of the outermost layer of skin. It often looks like a pearly or waxy bump, a flat flesh-colored or pink patch, or a sore that bleeds, scabs, and returns. It appears most often on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, neck, and arms.
What causes basal cell carcinoma?
Ultraviolet exposure from the sun and tanning beds is the leading cause. Risk is higher for people with fair skin, light eyes, a history of sunburns, or a previous skin cancer. BCC becomes more common with age, though younger adults are being diagnosed more frequently.
How is basal cell carcinoma treated?
Treatment depends on the tumor. Mohs surgery removes the cancer layer by layer with immediate microscopic examination, offering cure rates around 99% for new BCCs while preserving healthy tissue. Other options include excision, scraping and cauterizing (electrodesiccation and curettage), and prescription creams for superficial tumors. After treatment, regular skin checks matter—having one BCC raises your risk of developing another.