Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and most cases are highly treatable when caught early.
Dermatologists diagnose skin cancer through a skin exam and biopsy, then choose a treatment based on the cancer type, size, and location. Mohs micrographic surgery removes cancer one thin layer at a time while checking margins under a microscope, which preserves healthy tissue and gives some of the highest cure rates for basal and squamous cell carcinomas, especially on the face and neck. Sarasota and Venice have several fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons.
Layer-by-layer removal with same-day margin checks under a microscope; favored for facial and high-risk cancers.
The lesion plus a margin is cut out and sent to pathology, then the wound is closed with stitches.
The cancer is scraped and the base treated with electric current; used for small, superficial lesions.
Prescription creams or radiation for select superficial cancers or patients who are not surgical candidates.
A Florida medical license lets a physician practice, but board certification is the signal that a doctor completed accredited residency training and passed rigorous exams in their specialty. Look for certification by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) member board that matches the care you need — and verify it yourself.
Procedure facts on this page draw on authoritative medical sources. Confirm specifics in a consultation.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) ↗Skin Cancer Foundation ↗Choose a board-certified doctor — and verify it yourself:
ABMS — Certification Matters ↗ Look up any U.S. physician’s board certification across all 24 ABMS member specialty boards. Florida DOH — License Verification ↗ Confirm an active Florida license and review any disciplinary history. NPI Registry (CMS) ↗ Verify a provider’s national identifier and registered specialty taxonomy. Medicare Care Compare ↗ Compare clinicians, hospitals and facilities on quality measures.