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Medical Dermatology
IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: Demand for medical dermatology services has exceeded our practice’s capacity due to a shortage of dermatology providers on Hawaii Island. We have made the difficult decision to temporarily halt the scheduling of any new medical dermatology patients at our practice effective Monday, November 21, 2022. Click here for more information.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. We encourage a yearly full body skin check to maintain your overall skin health. Skin cancer can arise from existing lesions or be a new growth. It is important to know that sometimes skin cancer may not appear concerning or be symptomatic. Cancerous lesions can also occur on any area of the body (even where we do not get sun exposure).
Dr. Monica and her team of experienced Physician Assistants are trained in detection and treatment of skin cancers including precancers (actinic keratosis), precancerous moles (dysplastic moles), basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
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We offer a range of treatment options and will personalize a plan for you depending on the location on the body, biopsy result, and your skin history.
Treatments we offer for Precancers & Skin Cancer:
- Liquid Nitrogen (precancers and some superficial basal cell carcinoma)
- Electrodessication and Curettage Excision
- Topical Chemotherapy or Immunotherapy creams
- Referral to specialized surgeon, such as Mohs
What can I do to prevent skin cancer?
- Schedule your yearly (or sooner) full skin check as recommended by your dermatology provider
- Avoid excessive sun exposure and sunburns
- Wear sun protective clothing and zinc based sunscreen (minimum of 7%) every day. Use an SPF chapstick on your lips daily
- Follow our recommended skin care regimen using Vitamin C every morning and retinol or retinol alternatives nightly
- Check your skin at home regularly and schedule a visit if you notice any changes or concerns
- Take Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Heliocare supplements (we recommend that you discuss with our providers or your primary care doctor)
- Schedule resurfacing treatment such as CO2 laser
- Schedule exfoliating treatments such as chemical peels or diamond glow microdermabrasion
- Continue home maintenance exfoliating topicals such as Amlactin, Uradin, or Retinol Firming Body Lotion
- Topical chemotherapy or immunotherapy medications (speak to your doctor to see if this is right for you)