Basal Cell Carcinoma – Skin & Laser Center of NJ

Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Ramsey, NJ

Expert Care for the Most Common Form of Skin Cancer in New Jersey
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, accounting for roughly 80% of all cases in the United States. This type of cancer develops in the outermost basal cells of the skin, often as a result of cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure from the sun or tanning beds. While BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body, early detection and treatment are essential to prevent local tissue damage and ensure optimal outcomes.

Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma

BCC typically appears in areas of the skin most frequently exposed to the sun, including:

Face
Scalp
Ears
Neck
Hands

Key facts about basal cell carcinoma include:

Slow-growing: BCC usually develops gradually over months or years
Low metastatic risk: Rarely spreads to other parts of the body
Varied appearance: Can present in multiple forms, making self-exams and professional evaluations essential

Knowing the common appearances and risk factors for BCC helps patients detect lesions early and seek timely treatment. Those with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or extensive sun exposure are at higher risk and should maintain regular dermatologic checkups.

Signs and Symptoms of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma can present in several ways, often appearing subtle at first. Common signs include:

Small, smooth, pearly or pink growths
Flat, pink, or scaly patches that may appear irritated
Raised bumps with central indentations
Pimples or sores that do not heal and may bleed

Because BCC can mimic other skin conditions, professional evaluation is essential. Our dermatologists carefully examine suspicious lesions and provide precise diagnosis using clinical assessments and, when necessary, biopsies. Early detection not only prevents local tissue damage but also allows for minimally invasive treatment options.

Treatment Options for Basal Cell Carcinoma

At Skin & Laser Center of NJ, treatment plans are tailored to the type, size, and location of the BCC lesion. Available options include:

Surgical excision: Complete removal of cancerous tissue with minimal impact on surrounding skin
Mohs surgery: Layer-by-layer removal to ensure clear margins while preserving healthy tissue, especially for facial lesions
Topical therapies: Prescription creams for superficial BCCs
Follow-up monitoring: Regular skin checks to detect any recurrence or new lesions early

Our goal is to remove all cancerous tissue safely while maintaining optimal cosmetic results and long-term skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Basal Cell Carcinoma

What Treatment Options Does Skin & Laser Center of NJ Offer for Basal Cell Carcinoma?

In order to confirm a basal cell carcinoma diagnosis, your provider will need to perform a biopsy of the area. If the biopsy confirms the presence of cancer cells, there are several different treatment options available. Choosing the best treatment option depends on the size and location of the lesion, how deep the tumor extends, and the overall health of the patient.

Treatment options include:

Topical chemotherapy with creams may be useful for very early and thin basal cell carcinomas. After the treatment, your provider will monitor the site for a recurrence. Additional biopsies may be necessary.
Wide local excision is the most common skin cancer removal treatment. It involves using a scalpel to remove the cancerous growth, along with a small margin of healthy skin around it. Stitches are then placed to close the wound.
Curettage and electrodessication involves scraping away the top layer of the cancerous tumor with a tool called a curette. An electric needle is then used to cauterize the area. This is performed with a local anesthetic to reduce discomfort. The wound heals slowly over several weeks.
Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard of skin cancer treatment. This approach involves removing the cancerous tissue one layer at a time and examining it under a microscope to determine whether there are any cancerous cells left. The process continues until no cancer cells remain. The wound will either be sutured or left to heal, depending on many factors.
Radiation therapy relies on a powerful energy beam to kill cancer cells. This can also be used after surgery if there is an increased risk the cancer will return.

While there are many effective treatments available at Skin & Laser Center of NJ, prevention is always the better option. There are steps everyone can take to help reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. These preventive measures include:

Avoiding excessive exposure to the sun all year.
Wearing a hat and UV protective clothing when outdoors.
Staying under shady areas when outside.
Avoiding the sun between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Using broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF or 30 or higher, even on overcast days.
Reapplying sunscreen every two hours and after getting the skin wet.
Not using tanning beds.

Patients interested in learning more about proactive preventive procedures—including photodynamic therapy and topical chemotherapy—can schedule an appointment with our care providers.

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Learn more about medical treatments at New Jersey’s Skin & Laser Center of NJ. Call 201-500-7525 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.