To view photos of basal cell carcinoma shown in various forms on various parts of the face, please click here . However, new basal cell carcinomas can develop after treatment, so continued self-examination and regular examination by a dermatologist are important. When basal cell carcinoma is discovered early and the diagnosis confirmed by biopsy, treatment may be carried out in the dermatologist s office or an outpatient setting. A scalpel is used to scrape away malignant tissue. Curettage is used chiefly for superficial carcinoma not previously treated.
Liquid nitrogen is applied to the lesion to destroy malignant tissue by ultra-cold freezing.
This technique is used when the carcinoma is in deeper tissues. In this technique, the surgeon can perform surgery layer by layer into the skin, under direct microscopic observation. The dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon will discuss with the patient the type of treatment that will be most effective. Squamous Cell Carcinoma Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the outer layers of the skin. It is capable of metastasizing to other areas of the body if not treated early.