Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, and it is also one of the most treatable when caught early. Often appearing as a pearly bump or a sore that won’t heal, BCC typically develops on sun-exposed skin. At HK Dermatology in San Juan Capistrano, CA , we diagnose basal cell carcinoma quickly and offer advanced treatment options, including Mohs surgery and non-surgical superficial radiation therapy.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma develops in the basal cells, which sit in the lowest layer of the epidermis and produce new skin cells. Damage from ultraviolet radiation causes these cells to grow uncontrollably. BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads to distant parts of the body, but if it is ignored it can invade surrounding skin, nerves, and even bone, leading to disfigurement, especially on the face. Early diagnosis is the key to simple treatment and the best cosmetic outcome.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop BCC, but the risk is highest for people with fair skin, light hair or eyes, a history of sunburns, years of outdoor work or recreation, or tanning bed use. Other risk factors include a personal or family history of skin cancer, a weakened immune system, prior radiation exposure, and older age. Patients with actinic keratosis have significant sun damage and are also at increased risk.
Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma
BCC can look different from person to person. Watch for:
- A shiny, pearly, or translucent bump that may be pink, red, or skin-colored
- A sore that bleeds, crusts, heals, and then returns
- A pink growth with a raised, rolled border and a central indentation
- A flat, scar-like area that is white, yellow, or waxy with poorly defined edges
- A red, scaly patch that may itch, especially on the chest, back, arms, or legs
- Small visible blood vessels on the surface of a bump
Most BCCs appear on the face, ears, scalp, neck, and shoulders. If you notice a spot that is new, changing, or not healing, schedule an evaluation. A quick, in-office biopsy confirms the diagnosis.
Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment Options
HK Dermatology offers both surgical and non-surgical treatment so your care matches the size, type, and location of your cancer as well as your overall health:
- Mohs surgery: Mohs surgery removes cancer layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope during your visit. It offers the highest cure rate while preserving healthy tissue, making it ideal for the face, nose, ears, and lips.
- Superficial radiation therapy (SRT): SRT treats many BCCs without cutting, stitches, or scarring. It is a strong option for older patients, those who are not good surgical candidates, or people who want to avoid surgery on visible areas.
- Excision: The tumor and a small margin of healthy skin are removed under local anesthesia and closed with stitches.
- Electrodesiccation and curettage: Some small, superficial BCCs can be scraped away and treated with an electric current.
- Topical therapy: Certain superficial BCCs respond to prescription creams.
You can see real patient results on our basal cell treatment results page.
After Treatment
Having one BCC increases the likelihood of developing another, so ongoing skin exams are important. Most patients return every six to twelve months. Daily sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours all lower your risk. If healing leaves a noticeable mark, our scar removal treatments can help soften its appearance. Learn about related diagnoses including squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, or browse all conditions we treat.
Basal Cell Carcinoma FAQs
Is basal cell carcinoma dangerous?
Basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other organs, but it can grow deep into surrounding skin, nerves, and bone if untreated. Early treatment is simple and highly effective.
What is the best treatment for basal cell carcinoma?
It depends on the tumor’s size, type, and location. Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate for facial cancers, while superficial radiation therapy is an effective non-surgical alternative for many patients.
Can basal cell carcinoma be treated without surgery?
Yes. Superficial radiation therapy and certain prescription creams can treat many BCCs without cutting. Your provider will discuss whether a non-surgical approach is appropriate for your diagnosis.
How is basal cell carcinoma diagnosed?
A provider examines the spot and performs a quick biopsy under local anesthesia. The sample is analyzed by a pathologist to confirm the diagnosis and the subtype of BCC.
Will I have a scar after treatment?
Mohs surgery and excision leave a small scar that usually fades over time. SRT typically does not leave a surgical scar. We also offer scar treatments if needed.
Can basal cell carcinoma come back?
Recurrence is uncommon after proper treatment, especially with Mohs surgery, but patients are at higher risk of developing new skin cancers. Regular skin exams are important.
Is basal cell carcinoma treatment covered by insurance?
Skin cancer treatment is medically necessary and is typically covered by insurance, including Medicare. Visit our insurance page for the main plans we accept.
Get Expert Care for Basal Cell Carcinoma
If you have a spot that is new, changing, or not healing, don’t wait. Call HK Dermatology at (949) 248-1632 or request an appointment online for a skin cancer evaluation in San Juan Capistrano, CA .
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