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Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Skin Cancer

Skin Cancer Awareness Month

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How to Take Control of Your Skin Health During Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Every May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting your skin, detecting warning signs early, and seeking expert treatment when needed. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, but the good news is that it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable. By taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure early intervention if needed.

At The Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana (LASSI), our team of board-certified dermatologists, led by renowned Mohs surgery expert Dr. C. William Hanke, is dedicated to helping patients detect, prevent, and treat skin cancer with the most advanced techniques available. Keep reading to learn what you need to know during Skin Cancer Awareness Month and how to take control of your skin health.

Understanding Skin Cancer and Your Risk

Skin cancer develops when uncontrolled cell growth occurs in the skin due to UV exposure or other factors. The three most common types include:

  • Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, slow-growing and highly treatable.

  • Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Faster-growing but still treatable when detected early.

  • Melanoma: The most aggressive form, but survival rates are high with early detection.

Skin cancer affects millions of people each year, but Skin Cancer Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that knowledge and action can save lives.

Early Detection: The Key to Successful Treatment

The earlier skin cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. Skin Cancer Awareness Month encourages everyone to perform regular skin self-exams and schedule annual screenings with a dermatologist. Here’s what you can do:

  • Know the signs: Use the ABCDEs of melanoma to check for irregular moles or skin changes:

    • Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.

    • Border: Edges are irregular or blurred.

    • Color: Uneven shades of brown, black, or red.

    • Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser.

    • Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or color.

  • Get screened: A professional skin exam at the LASSI can detect suspicious growths early, often before symptoms arise.

Protecting Your Skin: Simple Steps for Prevention

Most skin cancers are preventable with proper sun protection. Follow these expert-recommended tips:

  • Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.

  • Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest.

  • Wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses.

  • Avoid tanning beds, which increase melanoma risk by 75%.

  • Make skin checks and dermatology visits part of your routine.

By incorporating these habits into your daily life, you take a powerful step toward reducing your risk of skin cancer.

How the LASSI Can Help During Skin Cancer Awareness Month

At the LASSI, we offer advanced skin cancer detection and treatment options, ensuring our patients receive the highest level of care.

Dr. C. William Hanke: A Leader in Mohs Surgery Research

Dr. Hanke is an internationally recognized expert in Mohs micrographic surgery, the most precise and effective treatment for certain types of skin cancer. His achievements and recognition include:

  • Past president of the American College of Mohs Surgery.
  • Founder of the Mohs Micrographic Surgery Unit at Indiana University School of Medicine.
  • Recipient of the Distinguished Achievement Award from the American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology.
  • Recipient of the Frederic E. Mohs Award from the American College of Mohs Surgery.

Our Indianapolis dermatology team provides:

  • Comprehensive skin cancer screenings for early detection.

  • Mohs surgery, the gold standard for treating basal and squamous cell carcinomas.

  • Advanced treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.

If you haven’t had a recent skin check, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment.

Take Action: Protect Your Skin Today in Indianapolis with a Skin Check at the LASSI

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is about more than awareness—it’s about taking action. The best thing you can do for your skin health is to stay informed, practice prevention, and schedule regular skin exams.

Don’t wait—schedule your skin cancer screening at the LASSI today. Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early, and a simple screening can give you peace of mind.

Join us this Skin Cancer Awareness Month in prioritizing skin health, spreading awareness, and taking the necessary steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Your skin health is in your hands—let’s take care of it together!

Skin Bumps: The Ultimate Guide

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What are those skin bumps? Find out when to worry, when to seek dermatologic care, and how we help you achieve smoother skin with expert procedures and products.

Skin bumps can be a cause for concern or nothing to fret about at all. For peace of mind, proper care, and smoother skin, seeking diagnosis and treatment from a board-certified dermatologist is key.

What Are Skin Bumps?

Skin bumps can appear for many reasons. While some are purely cosmetic, others may indicate an underlying condition that requires treatment. Here are some common types of skin bumps:

  • Acne: Pimples, blackheads, and cysts caused by clogged pores, excess oil, and bacteria.
  • Moles and Skin Tags: Harmless growths that can sometimes interfere with comfort or aesthetics.
  • Cysts and Lipomas: Non-cancerous lumps under the skin, often painless but sometimes bothersome.
  • Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these bumps are typically rough and raised.
  • Keratosis Pilaris: Also called “chicken skin,” these bumps often appear on the arms and thighs.
  • Actinic Keratosis and Other Pre-cancerous Lesions: Scaly patches that could develop into skin cancer without intervention.
  • Skin Cancer: These bumps come in many forms and colors but can be raised bumps with irregular borders.

Your skin’s health is important, and a professional evaluation is the first step to understanding and addressing these bumps.

How Are Skin Bumps Diagnosed by a Dermatologist?

At the LASSI, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing skin bumps. You’ll benefit from the expertise of board-certified dermatologists who specialize in identifying and treating even the most challenging skin concerns.

  • Examination: During your consultation, we’ll examine the bump’s appearance, texture, and location while discussing your medical history.
  • Dermatoscopy: This specialized tool allows us to look deeper into the structure of a bump, helping us differentiate between benign and potentially harmful growths.
  • Biopsy: If necessary, we may take a small sample of the bump to confirm its diagnosis and ensure no underlying issues are overlooked.

Our diagnostic process is designed to give you clarity and confidence about your skin health.

Treatment Options

Treating skin bumps depends on their type and severity. At the LASSI, we offer advanced treatments to address a wide range of conditions:

  • Acne: Customized acne treatment plans that include prescription medications, medical-grade products, and light or laser treatments.
  • Moles and Skin Tags: Removal options like shaving, cryotherapy, or excision.
  • Cysts and Lipomas: Simple outpatient removal procedures for comfort and aesthetic concerns.
  • Warts: Effective options like cryotherapy, laser treatment, or prescription topical solutions.
  • Keratosis Pilaris: Treatments to smooth and soften skin, including medical-grade exfoliants and moisturizers.
  • Suspicious Growths: Prompt removal and follow-up care to prevent and treat potential skin cancer.

With minimally invasive procedures and state-of-the-art technology, we focus on restoring your confidence and comfort.

Why Choose the LASSI for Your Skin Bumps?

Choosing the right dermatology center in Indianapolis can make all the difference. At the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana, you’ll experience:

  • Specialized Expertise: Our board-certified dermatologists bring years of experience to every diagnosis and treatment.
  • Cutting-Edge Tools and Techniques: From advanced laser treatments to precision diagnostics, we utilize the latest technology for optimal results.
  • Personalized Care: Your skin is unique, and we create treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and concerns.
  • Trusted Reputation: Conveniently located in Indianapolis, we’re proud to be a trusted leader in dermatological care in Indiana.

You don’t have to live with uncertainty or discomfort—the LASSI is here to help.

Take Control of Your Skin Health Today

Skin bumps can be a source of worry, but the experts at the LASSI are here to provide clarity, solutions, and peace of mind. Let us help you rediscover smooth, healthy, and vibrant skin.

Schedule your consultation with the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana today!

Merkel Cell Carcinoma: What you should know about Jimmy Buffett’s cause of death

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Sunshine is something we all crave, especially after long winters or in the middle of chilly days. But, it’s important to know that over-exposure to the sun can have serious consequences. One of those consequences could be Merkel cell carcinoma. Jimmy Buffett, the famous musician, recently lost his life to this cancer. His death has brought attention to this rare, aggressive cancer, and why it’s crucial to get an early diagnosis. Today, we’ll be discussing what Merkel cell skin cancer is, how it’s diagnosed, what your treatment options are, and why it’s so important to visit our team at The Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana in Indianapolis for an annual skin check.

Don’t Let Sun Damage Go Undetected – The Importance of Early Detection of Merkel Cell Carcinoma

What is Merkel Cell Carcinoma?

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive skin cancer that starts in Merkel cells, which are located in the epidermis layer of your skin. Merkel cells are part of the nervous system and help us feel touch. When these cells develop mutations, as a result of sun exposure or other factors, they can become cancerous. Along with over-exposure to sunlight, elderly individuals, those with weakened immune systems, and those who have undergone radiation treatments are at higher risk of developing this cancer.

How Merkel Cell Carcinoma is Diagnosed

One of the biggest challenges with Merkel cell carcinoma is that it often presents as a painless, firm, and reddish lump on your skin, which is easily dismissed as a harmless blemish or mole. It’s not always easy to detect, so it’s important to get an annual skin check-up. During your skin check, our team will examine all parts of your body for unusual spots, and if we find anything unusual, we’ll perform a biopsy. This biopsy allows us to check the skin’s cells under a microscope to determine if cancer is present.

Treatment Options

If you’re diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma, there are several treatment options available to you. The treatment will depend on the size and location of the tumor and whether or not it has spread to other parts of your body. Surgical removal is often the first-line treatment for isolated tumors. Following surgery, radiation therapy may also be recommended to prevent reoccurrences. Other treatments like immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy may be recommended to treat more advanced stages of this cancer.

Schedule a Skin Check Appointment in Indianapolis at The LASSI
Merkel cell carcinoma can be a deadly cancer if left undetected and untreated. Regular skin checks are important to help detect any suspicious spots or growths. In addition, protecting your skin from the sun reduces the risk of developing skin cancer. Skipping sunscreen and tanning can not only cause sunburns but also skin cancers such as the deadly Merkel cell. Our team at The Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana in Indianapolis can perform an annual skin check to evaluate the health of your skin. Our team of board-certified dermatologists is experienced in diagnosing and treating various types of skin cancer, including Merkel cell carcinoma. So, contact us, and let’s make sure you stay on top of your skin health. Remember, early detection saves lives!

Understanding Melanoma Skin Cancer: Gain Insight into Diagnosis and Treatment Options

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Are you concerned about your risk of developing melanoma skin cancer? Do you have a suspicious mole or lesion on your skin that concerns you? As dermatology providers who have been treating skin cancer for many years, we know that it can be a scary and confusing diagnosis. But don’t worry – our team of skin cancer experts can help you understand what melanoma is, how we diagnose it, and what your treatment options are.

In this blog, we will explain what melanoma skin cancer is, how it differs from other forms of skin cancer, and how we diagnose it. We will also discuss the different treatment options available, including Mohs surgery. Finally, we will talk about why you should choose Dr. C. William Hanke and our team at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana in Indianapolis for your melanoma skin cancer diagnosis and treatment.

What is Melanoma Skin Cancer?

Melanoma skin cancer is a type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in our skin. It is the most dangerous type of skin cancer because it can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early. Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found on the back, legs, arms, and face.

How is Melanoma Skin Cancer Different from Other Types of Skin Cancer?

Unlike basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are slow-growing, melanoma can spread quickly if not treated early. It’s important to monitor your skin for any changes and to see a dermatologist if you notice any suspicious spots or moles.

How is it Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a skin exam and a biopsy. During a skin exam, a dermatologist will examine your skin for any suspicious spots or moles. If a spot looks concerning, a biopsy will be performed to remove a small piece of tissue for examination under a microscope. This will help determine if the spot is cancerous.

What are the Treatment Options for Melanoma Skin Cancer?

Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and the size and location of the cancerous spot. Treatment options may include surgical excision, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be recommended.

Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is a specialized type of surgery that is commonly used to treat skin cancer. It is particularly effective in treating very early onset melanoma skin cancer because it allows for precise removal of the cancerous tissue while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. During Mohs surgery, the cancer is removed layer by layer and examined under a microscope until all the cancer cells have been removed.

Why Choose Dr. C. William Hanke and Our Team at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana?

Our team at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana in Indianapolis is dedicated to providing the highest level of care for our patients. We have years of experience in diagnosing and treating all types of skin cancer, and we stay up to date with the latest treatment options and techniques. We will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Get Started With a Skin Check Appointment in Indianapolis

Melanoma skin cancer can be scary, but early detection and treatment can save lives. If you have any suspicious spots or moles on your skin, it’s important to see a dermatologist right away. At the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana in Indianapolis, we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about your options for diagnosis and treatment.

NEW PRO-NOX Pain Management & Anxiety Relief

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We are excited to offer patients another option for procedural comfort and pain management: PRO-NOX.

PRO-NOX is a combination nitrous oxide and oxygen analgesia system, offering rapid onset pain management and anxiety relief. The system provides a fixed 50/50 mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, self-administered by the patient via inhalation.

Pain Management & Anxiety Relief With PRO-NOX

The PRO-NOX system is safe and effective while empowering the patient to self-administer as needed for pain and anxiety. Through inhalation, relief is immediate. When finished, the effects clear the body in a matter of minutes. In fact, if you’re seeing us for a non-surgical procedure, you will be able to drive yourself to and from your appointment (unless told otherwise).

PRO-NOX is a safe and non-invasive way to feel more comfortable during laser treatments for the skin, hair, and veins; microneedling; cosmetic injectables; skin biopsies; skin cancer removal and more.

As Seen on TV: Live With Kelly & Ryan

How PRO-NOX Works

Nitrous Oxide diminishes pain and pain awareness and relaxes feelings of anxiety by triggering the release of endorphins and dopamine in the brain. It moves quickly from the lungs to the blood, providing rapid relief after just 2-5 inhalations.

Who is a Good Candidate for PRO-NOX Pain Management?

PRO-NOX is safe for most patients who require pain management and/or anxiety relief during their procedures. It can be used in addition to other pain management applications. For patients who cannot use topical or injectable numbing during their procedure, PRO-NOX is another way to ensure comfort.

Some patients, however, should not use PRO-NOX. Contraindications for nitrous-oxide inhalation include pregnancy; hypersensitivity to nitrous oxide; decompression sickness; some ear conditions, like infection or blockages.

PRO-NOX Safety

If you’ve ever received nitrous-oxide during a dental procedure, then you have experienced the safe use of this inhaled analgesic. The difference is that you’re in control, only breathing in the mixture as needed for pain management and anxiety relief. Nitrous-oxide has been used around the world for decades. It is non-addictive and reduces the need for other pain management options, like pills or injections.

Nitrous-oxide is used safely in hospitals, surgery centers, and even during labor & delivery.

What to Expect While Using PRO-NOX

Before we begin, we will provide you with a nose clip. To ensure comfort, we can provide you with gauze between the skin and the clip. This is important to ensure that you’re getting a full dose of N2O when you breathe in.

Next, we will advise you to form a tight seal with your lips around the hose. We will begin by coaching you through a pre-treatment dose. This involves approximately 5-9 deep inhalations, where you will hold your breath for a few seconds and then exhale through the mouthpiece.

Once you feel the effects, we will begin with the procedure, coaching you to stay ahead of the anxiety and pain, inhaling as needed for preventative pain management and anxiety relief.

PRO-NOX FAQ

Are there any side-effects with PRO-NOX?

Some patients report feeling nausea; however, this feeling subsides after taking several deep breaths of fresh air without the PRO-NOX.

Do I need to do anything to prepare before using PRO-NOX?

There is no preparation necessary prior to using this analgesia system.

Can I drive myself to and from my procedure?

After 5-10 minutes of breathing fresh air without any N2O, the effects will subside, allowing you to drive yourself home. Please note that for some of our procedures, we do require that you have a friend or family member bring you in or drive you home. Discuss the requirements for your specific procedure with our providers.

Do I need to breathe in the N2O mixture the entire time for pain management?

No. We recommend inhaling the mixture only as needed for pain and anxiety relief. It’s important to also breathe normally during your procedure.

Discuss Your Options for Procedural Pain Management and Anxiety Relief

At the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana, we want you to know that you have options. Your safety and comfort are top priorities, and we are here to answer any and all questions you have about your treatment and pain management options. Please reach out to our team for more information or to schedule a consultation.

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen

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Not all sunscreens are created equal, and, according to recent studies, many sunscreens don’t work at all. Learn how to choose the best sunscreen to ensure adequate sun protection for you and your family, as recommended by board-certified dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons.

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen

Arming yourself with the best information, in addition to guidance from a board-certified dermatologist, will empower you to make better choices for yourself and your family. Below are our top three tips for choosing the best sunscreen.

1. Learn How to Read and Understand Sunscreen Labels

The first step to choosing the best sunscreen is to learn how to read sunscreen labels. Here’s what you should look for:

Broad-Spectrum Protection: Protect your skin from sun damage caused by both UVA and UVB rays. This ensures that your skin is guarded against premature aging, cancer-causing sun damage, and sunburns.

Understand Water Resistance: No sunscreen is sweat proof or waterproof, and sunscreen manufacturers aren’t permitted to make such claims. They can, however, label their products as “water resistant.” Note that if they do make this claim, they must declare how long their sunscreen protection will last when exposed to water.  Still, a good rule is to reapply your sunscreen more often if you’re sweating a lot or swimming.

SPF 30+: SPF is “Sun Protection Factor,” declaring the level of protection against UVB rays. This is what keeps you from getting burned. SPF 15 only protects against approximately 93% of UVB rays. While that may seem like high level protection, compare that with SPF 30, which protects against 97% and SPF 50, which protects against 98%. SPF 100 protects against 99%. No sunscreen will completely protect your skin, and sunscreens that have an SPF below 15 are required by FDA regulations to add a warning label, declaring that their product protects against burns but not skin cancer or aging.

2. Choose the Best Sunscreen Ingredients

The active ingredient in your sunscreen matters. Active ingredients fall into two categories: chemical protection or physical block. Physical block ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are generally considered to be more effective.

How effective are they? Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are so powerful that they are used in UV-blocking glasses used for welders and astronauts. Both provide strong protection against both UVA and UVB rays, giving you the best coverage against sun damage.

3. Discuss Your Sunscreen Choices With a Board-Certified Dermatologist

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) released data showing that many over-the-counter sunscreens did not provide the protection advertised on their labels. A quick Google search will also reveal horror stories of responsible parents who used sunscreen as instructed on the label and still saw severe sunburns on their young children. Some of these children required medical care related to their burns and are at an increased risk for skin cancer later in life.

Instead of trying to figure out which sunscreens provide the protection advertised on their labels, consider seeing a board-certified dermatologist for recommendations. You can further eliminate the guesswork and purchase a dermatologist-approved sunscreen from our Indianapolis dermatology practice. If you are purchasing a sunscreen for your child, be sure to consult with their pediatrician as well, as some ingredients aren’t recommended for infants.

Always double check the ingredients to be sure you use the best sunscreen while avoiding allergens or other ingredients that cause skin reactions for you or your children.

Sunscreen Brands We Recommend at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana

As our Indianapolis dermatology practice is a renowned skin cancer screening and treatment center, we take sun protection very seriously. It’s for this reason that we offer high-quality sunscreen brands available for purchase. We carry EltaMD and Colorescience, two of the best sunscreen brands recommended by dermatologists and aestheticians. Both brands contain zinc oxide for physical block protection.

EltaMD comes in clear, white, and pigmented lotions and lotion sprays. Facial sunscreens are noncomedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores or worsen acne breakouts. EltaMD is a top dermatologist-recommended sunscreen brands used and endorsed by celebrities.

Colorescience is best known for its facial sunscreen powder that doubles as mineral makeup. It comes in a variety of colors and provides more protection that you would expect from a powder sunscreen. It’s also a celebrity-favorite sunscreen that comes highly recommended by many skin care experts, including dermatologists.

Other skin care brands that we carry also include sunscreen, including Jan Marini and Epionce. Depending on your individual skin care needs, we may recommend one of these sunscreen brands to complement your skin care regimen more effectively. Discuss your options with one of our aestheticians.

In addition to sunscreen, we also sell Wallaroo Hats, wide-brimmed hats made from UV-blocking materials for added protection.

Sun Protection, Skin Cancer Prevention, and Dermatology Care in Indianapolis

Preventing sun damage is our main priority. However, we recommend yearly appointments with a board-certified dermatologist to check for suspicious moles or lesions on the skin. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, but it’s also the most treatable when caught early. Monthly self-checks and yearly checks by your dermatologist ensure early detection and treatment.

Our providers can also evaluate non-cancerous sun damage. Premature aging caused by excessive sun exposure includes uneven skin tone, fine lines, and wrinkles. We offer numerous treatment options to smooth away uneven skin tone and texture caused by sun damage. Discuss your options with our team.

Schedule an appointment at our Indianapolis dermatology practice to ensure healthy, younger-looking skin.