Skin Cancer and
Surgical Dermatology
Neoplasia is the abnormal growth of tissue. A neoplasm may be benign, pre-malignant, or malignant, depending on its capacity for unlimited growth, invasion, or metastasis. Cancer is the common term which refers to malignant neoplasms.
The most common skin cancers treated by Dermatologists are: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. Alpine Dermatology is equipped to perform surgical treatments to remove skin cancers including excision, minimally invasive destruction, and the Mohs procedure. These procedures and are performed in our office using a local anesthesia.
At Alpine Dermatology, we are committed to fully informing you about your diagnosis and treatment options. We will take the time to inform you of all your options for treatment, including non-surgical alternatives, and answer any questions you might have.
The most common skin cancers treated by Dermatologists are: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. Alpine Dermatology is equipped to perform surgical treatments to remove skin cancers including excision, minimally invasive destruction, and the Mohs procedure. These procedures and are performed in our office using a local anesthesia.
At Alpine Dermatology, we are committed to fully informing you about your diagnosis and treatment options. We will take the time to inform you of all your options for treatment, including non-surgical alternatives, and answer any questions you might have.
Malignant Melanoma
While not as common as some other forms of skin cancer, malignant melanoma is the most deadly form. At our practice serving Carson Valley, we provide the latest forms of melanoma treatment to help patients tackle this potentially deadly disease and regain health and well-being.
It is projected that 108,000 Americans will develop malignant melanoma on an annual basis in the coming years.
Melanoma begins in the skin cells that produce the dark, protective pigment called melanin. These cells are known as melanocytes. Because melanocytes frequently contribute to the production of melanin, the cancer usually appears as a mix of tan, brown, and black, although it may also be red or white. Because melanoma can spread to other areas of the body, early detection is especially important. This is why we urge those to visit us for a melanoma screening and immediate treatment if a melanoma is suspected.
Melanoma may appear suddenly. It may also begin in or in close proximity to a mole. So you can detect changes early, it is important to be aware of the location and appearance of the moles on your body. This will allow you to detect changes early and seek a dermatologist examination. The earlier melanoma is detected, the greater the chance it is at a curable stage.
It is projected that 108,000 Americans will develop malignant melanoma on an annual basis in the coming years.
Melanoma begins in the skin cells that produce the dark, protective pigment called melanin. These cells are known as melanocytes. Because melanocytes frequently contribute to the production of melanin, the cancer usually appears as a mix of tan, brown, and black, although it may also be red or white. Because melanoma can spread to other areas of the body, early detection is especially important. This is why we urge those to visit us for a melanoma screening and immediate treatment if a melanoma is suspected.
Melanoma may appear suddenly. It may also begin in or in close proximity to a mole. So you can detect changes early, it is important to be aware of the location and appearance of the moles on your body. This will allow you to detect changes early and seek a dermatologist examination. The earlier melanoma is detected, the greater the chance it is at a curable stage.
The ABCDE's of Melanoma
ABCDE’s of skin cancer represent a quick and easy way to remember those unique traits of a mole that may provide clues that a mole is suspicious. These simple guidelines can help you detect and seek treatment of a mole cancer at an early treatable stage.
Asymmetry — If a mole is asymmetrical, or irregularly shaped, it may be indicative of skin cancer.
Border Irregularity — Malignant moles tend to form undefined, jagged borders. The borders of healthy moles are typically smooth and rounded.
Color — If a mole has more than one color, and changes colors over time, there is a chance that the mole may be malignant.
Diameter — If a mole is larger than six millimeters in diameter, there is a possibility it is malignant.
Evolving — Changes in the legion over time. This is critical in one type of melanoma that can lack the above ABCD signs, but is a growing legion.
Contact us today to schedule a skin cancer screening appointment. The yearly mole check is a simple procedure that may save your life.
Asymmetry — If a mole is asymmetrical, or irregularly shaped, it may be indicative of skin cancer.
Border Irregularity — Malignant moles tend to form undefined, jagged borders. The borders of healthy moles are typically smooth and rounded.
Color — If a mole has more than one color, and changes colors over time, there is a chance that the mole may be malignant.
Diameter — If a mole is larger than six millimeters in diameter, there is a possibility it is malignant.
Evolving — Changes in the legion over time. This is critical in one type of melanoma that can lack the above ABCD signs, but is a growing legion.
Contact us today to schedule a skin cancer screening appointment. The yearly mole check is a simple procedure that may save your life.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It most often appears on the head, neck, and hands, although other parts of the body may also be affected. Visually, basal cell carcinoma appears as a small pink fleshy bump, or red patch. Basal cell carcinomas can frequently be found in individuals who are fair-skinned, and usually grow at a slow pace. To grow one-half-inch in diameter can even take many months or years. Untreated, the cancer often will begin to bleed, crust over, and heal, before repeating the cycle all over again.
Unlike melanoma, this form of skin cancer typically does not spread to other tissues. Immediate treatment at our office serving Carson Valley is important nevertheless as the cancer can affect tissues below the skin, possibly reaching bone and nerves and causing considerable damage.
Unlike melanoma, this form of skin cancer typically does not spread to other tissues. Immediate treatment at our office serving Carson Valley is important nevertheless as the cancer can affect tissues below the skin, possibly reaching bone and nerves and causing considerable damage.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell skin cancer is curable with treatment. Squamous cell carcinoma is a growth on the epithelial layer — or external surface — of the skin.
At Alpine Dermatology, our doctors provide thorough skin cancer treatment to help eradicate melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other forms of skin cancer.
What Causes Squamous Cell Cancer?
Overexposure to x-rays Excessive exposure to the sun
Signs of Squamous Cell Skin Cancer:
A raised pink bump on the skin with a crusting ulcer in the center Mainly occurs on areas of sun-exposed skin (face, ears, scalp, neck, hands, back, and shoulders)
Without treatment squamous cell carcinomas can spread in the body, especially to the lymph nodes. Like all other forms of cancer, early detection is important. For a skin cancer screening, or to explore treatment options after a skin cancer diagnosis, contact our Alpine Dermatology office.
At Alpine Dermatology, our doctors provide thorough skin cancer treatment to help eradicate melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other forms of skin cancer.
What Causes Squamous Cell Cancer?
Overexposure to x-rays Excessive exposure to the sun
Signs of Squamous Cell Skin Cancer:
A raised pink bump on the skin with a crusting ulcer in the center Mainly occurs on areas of sun-exposed skin (face, ears, scalp, neck, hands, back, and shoulders)
Without treatment squamous cell carcinomas can spread in the body, especially to the lymph nodes. Like all other forms of cancer, early detection is important. For a skin cancer screening, or to explore treatment options after a skin cancer diagnosis, contact our Alpine Dermatology office.
Feel confident in your skin with compassionate, expert care from Alpine Dermatology in Carson Valley.
Skin, the largest organ of the body, is in a constant state of growth and change. Your skin is always working to protect you from the environment around you. It acts as a barrier for infectious organisms and plays an active role in your body’s natural immune response. Disorders and diseases of the skin commonly involve dysfunction in growth tumors, infection, and immune problems (allergy, auto-immune disease).
Aging and UV sun exposure are universal factors that induce degenerative changes of the skin. The goal of Medical Dermatology is not only to diagnose and treat skin disease, but also to promote and maintain the healthiest possible skin.
Skin Disorders treated at Alpine Dermatology included the following conditions, as well as many other less common and rare conditions.
Aging and UV sun exposure are universal factors that induce degenerative changes of the skin. The goal of Medical Dermatology is not only to diagnose and treat skin disease, but also to promote and maintain the healthiest possible skin.
Skin Disorders treated at Alpine Dermatology included the following conditions, as well as many other less common and rare conditions.
• Acne •Psoriasis •Nail Fungus •Skin rashes •Skin Cancer •Hair loss •Benign growths •Skin infection •Rosacea •Eczema •Warts
MOHS Surgery
Mohs Surgery is the removal of skin cancers using microscopic guidance to achieve complete removal of the tumor. Developed by Dr. Frederic E Mohs, it is the recommend treatment for certain cancers depending on the size, location, and histopathology. The procedure begins with conservative removal of the tumor. The removed tissue is then examined under the microscope by the same physician performing the surgery. If cancer is visualized at a margin, more tissue is removed in the corresponding location, and the process is repeated.
Laser & Device
Treatments
GentleMax Pro Plus (Candela)
Our GentleMax Pro Plus combines dual wavelengths (755 nm Alexandrite and 1064 nm Nd:YAG), making it one of the most versatile lasers available.
– Hair Removal: Safe and effective for all skin types.
– Vascular Lesions: Treats spider veins, angiomas, and leg veins.
– Pigment Correction: Reduces sun spots, age spots, and freckles.
– Skin Rejuvenation: Stimulates collagen for smoother, more youthful skin.
PicoWay (Candela)
The PicoWay is an advanced picosecond laser designed for precision pigment and tattoo treatments.
– Tattoo Removal: Safely removes multicolor tattoos with fewer treatments.
– Pigmented Lesions: Targets freckles, age spots, and melasma with minimal downtime.
– Skin Revitalization: Improves tone, texture, and acne scars through collagen stimulation.
The PicoWay is an advanced picosecond laser designed for precision pigment and tattoo treatments.
– Tattoo Removal: Safely removes multicolor tattoos with fewer treatments.
– Pigmented Lesions: Targets freckles, age spots, and melasma with minimal downtime.
– Skin Revitalization: Improves tone, texture, and acne scars through collagen stimulation.
Vbeam Perfecta (Candela)
A pulsed dye laser (PDL) specifically designed for vascular and redness concerns.
– Rosacea & Redness: Gold-standard for broken capillaries and flushing.
– Port Wine Stains & Birthmarks: Proven safe and effective treatment.
– Scars & Bruising: Helps remodel scars and speeds bruise resolution.
A pulsed dye laser (PDL) specifically designed for vascular and redness concerns.
– Rosacea & Redness: Gold-standard for broken capillaries and flushing.
– Port Wine Stains & Birthmarks: Proven safe and effective treatment.
– Scars & Bruising: Helps remodel scars and speeds bruise resolution.
Nordlys (Candela)
The Nordlys platform combines Ellipse IPL, Frax 1550, and Frax 1940 technologies.
– Ellipse IPL: Improves redness, brown spots, and sun damage with superior safety.
– Frax 1550: Non-ablative fractional laser for acne scars, texture, and fine lines.
– Frax 1940: Gentle resurfacing for pigmentation, tone, and prevention of aging.
– Vascular & Pigment Options: Safe for a wide range of skin concerns.
The Nordlys platform combines Ellipse IPL, Frax 1550, and Frax 1940 technologies.
– Ellipse IPL: Improves redness, brown spots, and sun damage with superior safety.
– Frax 1550: Non-ablative fractional laser for acne scars, texture, and fine lines.
– Frax 1940: Gentle resurfacing for pigmentation, tone, and prevention of aging.
– Vascular & Pigment Options: Safe for a wide range of skin concerns.
Matrix Pro (Candela)
A cutting-edge fractional radiofrequency microneedling device for skin tightening and rejuvenation.
– Skin Tightening: Stimulates collagen and elastin.
– Acne & Surgical Scars: Reduces scar depth and improves texture.
– Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Smooths and rejuvenates skin.
– Safe for All Skin Types: Minimal downtime with natural results.
A cutting-edge fractional radiofrequency microneedling device for skin tightening and rejuvenation.
– Skin Tightening: Stimulates collagen and elastin.
– Acne & Surgical Scars: Reduces scar depth and improves texture.
– Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Smooths and rejuvenates skin.
– Safe for All Skin Types: Minimal downtime with natural results.
Alpine Dermatology specializes in skin cancer treatment, including Mohs surgery, excisions, and minimally invasive procedures.
Achieving, enhancing, and maintaining the health and beauty of your skin is the goal of cosmetic dermatology. At Alpine Dermatology, Dr. Juhl and Dr. Helfman offer cosmetic consultations to provide personalized evaluation and recommendations for procedures and products that will help you achieve your cosmetic goals. Call our office to schedule your cosmetic consultation today.
Some of the cosmetic procedures available at Alpine Dermatology include: Botox, and injectable fillers; including Juvederm, Voluma and Restylane.
If you would like to learn more about Botox, Restylane®, Juvéderm®, Voluma, or any of the other procedures we provide please contact Alpine Dermatology today.
Some of the cosmetic procedures available at Alpine Dermatology include: Botox, and injectable fillers; including Juvederm, Voluma and Restylane.
If you would like to learn more about Botox, Restylane®, Juvéderm®, Voluma, or any of the other procedures we provide please contact Alpine Dermatology today.
BOTOX® Cosmetic
You may be wondering if BOTOX® Cosmetic is for you. If you have considered reducing or eliminating signs of aging through BOTOX® Cosmetic, a consultation with one of our physicians can help you determine if treatment is right for you.
The benefits of BOTOX® Cosmetic are widely known. The treatment offers a fast and effective means of eliminating fine lines and wrinkles that can serve as tell-tale signs of age. As a result of stress, pollutants, sun exposure, or other factors, these fines lines and wrinkles can occur even when an individual is young.
At our Alpine Dermatology practice, our physicians provides BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment to help smooth frown lines on the forehead, around the eyes, and at the base of the nose to provide a younger, more vibrant look.
BOTOX® Cosmetic is non-surgical. With only a few small injections, the temporary smoothing of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyes, at the base of the nose, and on the forehead can be achieved. Lines that can appear near the edges of the eyes, known as “crow’s feet,” are also a common sign of aging that can be addressed with the help of BOTOX® Cosmetic.
After one ten minute treatment involving a few small injections, BOTOX® Cosmetic can provide noticeable results within days. Results vary, but can last up to four months.
The benefits of BOTOX® Cosmetic are widely known. The treatment offers a fast and effective means of eliminating fine lines and wrinkles that can serve as tell-tale signs of age. As a result of stress, pollutants, sun exposure, or other factors, these fines lines and wrinkles can occur even when an individual is young.
At our Alpine Dermatology practice, our physicians provides BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment to help smooth frown lines on the forehead, around the eyes, and at the base of the nose to provide a younger, more vibrant look.
BOTOX® Cosmetic is non-surgical. With only a few small injections, the temporary smoothing of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyes, at the base of the nose, and on the forehead can be achieved. Lines that can appear near the edges of the eyes, known as “crow’s feet,” are also a common sign of aging that can be addressed with the help of BOTOX® Cosmetic.
After one ten minute treatment involving a few small injections, BOTOX® Cosmetic can provide noticeable results within days. Results vary, but can last up to four months.
Fillers including Juvederm®, Restylane® and Voluma®
Our providers are experienced filler injectors who specialize in enhancing facial contours and reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. The products used at Alpine Dermatology are composed of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that is ideal for restoring volume beneath deep creases and moderate wrinkles, as well as rejuvenating the natural high cheekbones of youth. During the procedure, small injections are carefully administered into targeted areas. The treatment is highly convenient, usually taking about 30 minutes, and allowing patients to return to their daily routines immediately afterward.
Full results typically appear within one to two days after treatment, with effects lasting anywhere from nine months to 2–3 years. As the effects gradually diminish, results can be maintained with periodic touch-up treatments.
At your initial consultation, our providers will explain all aspects and alternatives of the procedure. We are proud to help patients from Carson Valley and across Nevada achieve outstanding results.
Other Cosmetic
Treatments
Botox & Dysport
Neuromodulators that relax facial muscles to smooth fine lines and prevent wrinkles, especially around the forehead, eyes, and brows.
Neuromodulators that relax facial muscles to smooth fine lines and prevent wrinkles, especially around the forehead, eyes, and brows.