Dr. Brooks, the Skin Cancer Foundation, and many other leading authorities all stress the importance of self examinations as the early detection of cancer. The earlier you find it, the more apt it is to be completely curable.
What Does Melanoma Look Like?
Melanoma can take shape as a freckle-like spot or mole on your skin.
In most instances, symmetry is the easiest way to identify whether your lesion is Melanoma.
Imagine folding your lesion in half, if it is identical in shape on both sides, your lesion is symmetric. That is an indication that your lesion might not be cancerous or precancerous.
If your mole is asymmetric — the two sides of your lesion don’t match — that is a warning sign.
Take a look at the Canadian Dermatology Association’s melanoma chart below:
Melanoma Is A Preventable Disease
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) — natural UV from the sun, artificial UV from tanning beds and sunburns are the most common causes of melanoma.
Proper sun protection is imperative. If you plan on spending time outside, wear sunscreen and do your best to practice protective sun behaviour.
How To Perform Your Skin Cancer Self-Exam
Please see this Skin Cancer Self-Exam infographic to learn how you can perform a melanoma self-exam at home.
If you see suspicious spots on your skin, schedule an appointment with your family physician or a walk-in clinic as soon as possible. If your physician believes that you may have melanoma and recommends further investigation, you can ask them to refer you to Dr. Trevor Brooks. They can fax the referral to: 403.487.0462
What Is The Advantage Of Seeing A Plastic Surgeon For Melanoma Removal?
It is best to see a Plastic Surgeon for surgical excisions of skin cancer because Plastic Surgeons have specialty training in advanced suturing techniques that result in the best-looking incision lines that minimize the appearance of scars.
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