At Associated Plastic Surgeons, we’re dedicated to helping our patients have healthy, beautiful skin. That’s why we offer medical dermatology in Kansas City. Dermatologist Dr. Nahid Shahrooz is board-certified and specializes in the early detection and treatment of skin cancer, along with other suspicious moles and skin growths. Getting a skin condition examined is important because changes to the skin can be early indicators of underlying health concerns. Dr. Shahrooz recommends that everyone have a full-body skin check once a year. Those with a history of skin cancer or a family history of melanoma should be seen more than once a year.
The skin is the body’s largest organ, and skin health is key to overall well-being. Chronic skin conditions affect millions of Americans, and skin cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed each year. It’s important to find a skin care specialist, such as Dr. Shahrooz, with the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat a range of conditions.
Early detection and treatment are the focus of our care. At our office in Kansas City, Dr. Shahrooz conducts meticulous full-body examinations to detect suspicious moles as well as pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions. Surgery to remove growths is performed when necessary. There are essentially 3 types of skin cancer:
These are the most common of all cancers. They can appear as small, shiny bumps, open sores, or red patches. They rarely spread but, if untreated, can become disfiguring.
This is the second-most common form of skin cancer. Sometimes, they look like scaly red patches, open sores, growths with a hollow area in the middle, or a wart-like legion. Although it is highly treatable, squamous cell carcinoma can be fatal if left untreated.
This is the rarest and most serious form of skin cancer. Malignant (cancerous) melanoma makes up about 5% of all skin cancers diagnosed annually. They often resemble moles and usually are black or brown, but they can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue, or white. Surgical removal is the first step in treating melanoma. Advanced surgical techniques are improving the success rate of treatment.
Although technically not skin cancer, actinic keratoses (AK) are extremely common pre-cancerous growths. The lesions are caused by excessive sun exposure, so they typically appear on skin that is exposed to the sun or tanning beds. Treatments range from prescription topical creams and liquid nitrogen to surgical excision.
People with numerous moles have an increased chance of developing skin cancer, so they should closely monitor their moles. Moles may appear at birth (congenital nevi) or develop later in life. Congenital moles are suspected to be more likely to become cancerous. Large or unusually shaped moles (dysplastic nevi) have uneven edges and should be monitored by a dermatologist.
Certain people are more likely to get warts, which occur when a common virus penetrates the skin, causing an infection in the top layer. They may disappear on their own, but usually, treatment is necessary to remove warts.
These hanging pieces of skin tissue are almost always harmless. Like any unusual skin growth, regular body exams should note any changes in shape, size, or color.
Two of the most common skin conditions we treat among patients in Kansas City, acne and rosacea, share some symptoms but are otherwise very different. Acne is a common condition caused by blocked pores, excessive oil production, and bacteria. It is common in teens, but people of all ages can suffer from acne. Rosacea is a condition of the facial skin and is characterized by redness, small visible blood vessels, and bumps or pimples. Rosacea can be a lifelong condition marked by occasional or frequent flare-ups.
A chronic condition that in its milder form causes a rash, psoriasis can cause significant discomfort. Mild cases can be treated with creams and lotions to keep skin moist.
Common fungal infections include athlete’s foot, ringworm, and those affecting the finger and toenails. The cause and treatment of fungal infections vary depending on the type. Although the causes are different, there are some common risk factors for developing a fungal infection, including:
Chronic dandruff, thinning hair, and psoriasis are all conditions that affect the hair and scalp. It’s important to have a scalp condition diagnosed because hair loss could indicate an underlying illness. Men and women concerned about thinning hair can also consider hair restoration treatment.
Genetics and environmental factors are the 2 primary causes of premature skin aging. Medical and technological advances have made reversing the effects of aging safe and reliable. Our extensive menu of skin care products and treatments can help boost your skin’s health and improve its appearance.
Contact us today to learn more about medical dermatology in Kansas City and how our skin care specialists could help you address any skin concerns.
(913) 451-3722