Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma

The cardinal feature observed in a skin lesion that proves to be melanoma is a change observed over a period of months. The time scale of the observed change is important. If a lesion grows so that it doubles its size within 10 days, it is usually an inflammatory (irritant) condition. If the lesion grows slowly that the patient or his relatives are unsure of any change, the lesion is often benign. However, medical advice should be sought regarding a lesion that doubles its size in 3 to 8 months. These symptoms may include growth in the diameter or contour of the mole, a change in color, bleeding, itching, ulceration, or the development of a palpable lymph node.

Growth (increased size) and color change (usually darker) are the symptoms most commonly seen first. They occur in over 70% of early, curable melanomas. Most lesions arise from a pre-existing mole, either on the trunk or leg. Please note that these facts and see your doctor immediately if you see these types of dark lesions.

This entry was posted on Monday, November 29th, 2010 at 8:52 pm and is filed under Uncategorized.

Beware of Red Spots-Possible Skin Cancer

In my practice, a lot of patients point out to me red spots located on their faces and body. It is important to realize that some of these red areas may be early or actual skin cancer. The most common types of red spots are actinic keratosis (premalignant) and basal cell carcinomas.

It is very difficult for a patient to determine what these lesions represent. Typically, a red lesion that is present for many months, that itches, is scaly and flakes, is of concern. A strong history of sun exposure and a fair skinned individual are at high risk for developing these lesions.

When I see these lesions, a biopsy must be done to determine a diagnosis. In most cases, various anticancer creams can be applied to non-cancerous lesions. If a basal cell cancer is found, a minor surgery or radiation therapy is used to treat these cancers. It is important to realize that these cancers are not life threatening as long as they are caught early and treated. It is my advice that everyone examine their selves regularly and see their doctor for any suspicious lesions.

This entry was posted on Monday, November 29th, 2010 at 8:58 pm and is filed under Uncategorized.

How to look good without downtime

Today, most patients want facial improvement and a youthful appearance without surgery, discomfort or prolonged swelling and bruising. This can be accomplished with facial fillers (Juvederm, Radiesse).

As we age, the underlying facial soft tissue atrophies and we begin to hallow out. Laugh lines, crow’s feet and other facial wrinkles develop causing us to look older and less vibrant than we feel. Today, natural and biocompatible substances such as hyaluronic acid (Restylane, hylaform), calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) and fat are helping to restore a more youthful appearance for millions of women and men. Research is ongoing, and new products are constantly being developed that further expand the choices available to physicians and patients.

Fillers are used to fill lines, wrinkles and lips. They may also be used to reduce the appearance of scarring caused by acne, chicken pox or injury. We also use them to augment cheeks and chins. One of the ways I am using fillers if for facial shaping. By building up the cheekbones and using hylaform to fill the indent in front of the jowls, disguising it, I can give the face a younger shape.

This entry was posted on Monday, November 29th, 2010 at 9:01 pm and is filed under Uncategorized.