Regular skin checks are crucial for your health, but it’s also important to be aware of your skin and notice changes in between appointments. Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early, and knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Dr. John Binhlam is a trusted dermatologist in Franklin, TN. Together, we can help you be proactive about your skin health.
What Are the Early Signs of Skin Cancer?
The best way to catch skin cancer early is through a combination of regular self-checks and professional exams. It’s important to get to know your skin, from head to toe, and keep an eye out for anything new, changing, or unusual. The ABCDE’s are a helpful guide:
- Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
- Border irregularity: Edges are uneven, notched, or blurred.
- Color variation: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, tan, white, red, or blue.
- Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), or growing.
- Evolving: The mole or spot is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation, or you notice new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting.
If you notice any of these changes, make an appointment with a dermatologist in Franklin, TN, to get a professional opinion.
How Often Should I See My Dermatologist in Franklin, TN?
Most people should schedule a full-body skin exam with a dermatologist in Franklin, TN, once a year. However, if you have a history of skin cancer, many moles, or a family history of melanoma, your dermatologist might recommend more frequent checks. It’s also important to schedule an appointment immediately if you find anything suspicious during your self-checks. Remember, even with self-checks, there are areas of your body that are difficult to examine on your own, like your back and scalp.
Why Early Detection Matters So Much
When it comes to skin cancer, we do have some good news. When found early, it’s highly treatable. In fact, the five year survival rate for melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, is around 94%. Most skin cancers are removed with simple, non-invasive procedures that have little to no downtime.
Schedule a Skin Check with a Dermatologist in Franklin, TN Today!
Skin checks are quick and easy, and they’re typically covered by your insurance (ask us about payment options if you don’t have insurance). They are an important part of your preventative healthcare routine. Call us today to make your appointment!
At ASCL in Brentwood, TN we have a legacy of excellence in medical dermatology and are your trusted partner in the journey to optimal skin health. We offer specialized care in treating skin cancers and chronic conditions. We believe in not just treating the symptoms, but providing holistic care to ensure long-term skin health and radiance. Every patient is different. At ASLC, we offer bespoke treatment plans that meet your unique skin health needs. Call our office today at 615-843-SKIN to make an appointment.