619-317-1837 BOOK ONLINE VIRTUAL OFFICE VISIT Skin Cancer Specialist Dermatology & Laser Center of San Diego Our Services Skin Cancer Tweet Dermatology & Laser Center of San Diego Dermatologists located in Hillcrest, San Diego, CA & Chula Vista, CA As a leading healthcare provider in Southern California, the Dermatology & Laser Center of San Diego offers the most advanced skin cancer treatment and screening options to diagnose and treat cancers, including carcinomas and melanomas, at every stage. 619-317-1837 BOOK ONLINE Skin Cancer Q & A What causes skin cancer? Skin cancer occurs as a result of mutations that develop in the your skin cells' DNA. These mutations cause the cells to multiply far more rapidly than they normally would, eventually forming cancerous masses that can overwhelm healthy tissues. DNA mutations can be triggered by exposure to UV radiation, mostly from the sun but also from tanning beds and other sources, as well as genetics, certain immune-compromising diseases, and other factors. What are the signs and symptoms of skin cancer? The most common signs of skin cancer are lesions, or growths, on the skin's surface. These lesions are typically oddly shaped or multicolored, and they may change in size, shape or color over time. Sores that are slow to heal are another common indicator of skin cancer. The type of lesion that forms can vary depending on the type of cancer that's present (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma). Is it true skin cancer only forms on skin that's been exposed to the sun? No; this is a common but very dangerous misconception. Skin cancer can form anywhere on your body, even in areas that have never or rarely been exposed to the sun. Because regular evaluations of your entire body can be difficult if not impossible, having a regular skin cancer screening is important to ensure all areas are properly evaluated. How can a doctor tell if a growth is cancerous? During your exam, any suspicious areas will be biopsied – a tiny tissue sample will be removed for further evaluation under a microscope. Before tissue is removed, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the spot. If the lab results indicate cancer is present, your doctor will discuss state-of-the-art treatment options, such as Mohs surgery or electronic brachytherapy. BOOK ONLINE Major Insurance Providers Accepted We accept all PPO insurance plans. Our primary PPOs are Tricare, Healthnet, Cigna, Aetna, Anthem Bluevross, Blueshield of California, United Healthcare, First Health, Pacificare, and Beech Street. If your insurance plan is not listed, please contact our office. We accept Visa, Master Card, Discover, and CareCredit. View full list of companies TESTIMONIALS Words from our patients 1 2 3 OUR LOCATIONS Choose your preferred location 4060 4th Avenue Suite 209, San Diego, CA 92103 619-317-1837 BOOK ONLINE 319 F Street Suite 102, Chula Vista, CA 91910 619-317-1958 BOOK ONLINE 6386 Alvarado Court Suite 205, San Diego, CA 92120 619-320-1260 BOOK ONLINE Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Accessibility Notice Contact Us Dermatology & Laser Center of San Diego, San Diego, CA Phone (appointments): 619-317-1837 Phone (general inquiries): 619-298-9535 Address: 4060 4th Avenue, Suite 209, San Diego, CA 92103 Dermatology & Laser Center of San Diego, Chula Vista, CA Phone (appointments): 619-317-1958 Phone (general inquiries): 619-476-1200 Address: 319 F Street, Suite 102, Chula Vista, CA 91910 Dermatology & Laser Center of San Diego, San Diego, CA Phone (appointments): 619-320-1260 Phone (general inquiries): 619-287-2877 Address: 6386 Alvarado Court, Suite 205, San Diego, CA 92120 4.93/5 (509 reviews)