Category: Medical Dermatology

When the pore of a hair follicle or oil gland becomes clogged, the oils, toxins, and dead skin cells that are normally excreted through the pores gradually build up to form a cyst. With thousands of pores across our bodies, cysts are one of the most common skin conditions out there. A cyst can form at the site of any blocked, damaged, or malfunctioning pore, and without a way of releasing that built-up tension, cysts can grow into noticeable lumps, cause painful irritation, or form unsightly scarring if a cyst is improperly treated. 

Fortunately, most cysts are superficial and easy to identify. Cysts appear as a visible bump along the surface of the skin, or you may feel a lump just beneath the skin. If the cyst “sac” ruptures due to skin trauma or excessive build-up, the area may be swollen, red, or tender to the touch. For deeper or larger cyst formations, a dermatologist may provide further diagnostics like ultrasound to determine the best course of action for treatment, if necessary. 

Cyst Treatment Considerations

If a cyst is not causing discomfort due to inflammation or causing a physical deformity, most cysts do not require treatment. But, if the cyst is unsightly, causing discomfort, or continues to interfere with daily life, our dermatologist in Southampton, PA offers two highly effective methods to remove the cysts in just a few quick trips to our office. 

Incision & Drainage Relieves the Tension

Incision and drainage provide immediate relief from the swollen painfulness of problematic cyst formations. After applying a topical anesthetic to the sensitive section of skin, our dermatologists create a small incision and carefully drain the cyst. Since I&D does not remove the cyst “sac” beneath the skin, the cyst can reform. Despite the possibility of cyst reformation, the immediate relief and aesthetic benefits are great reasons to consider I&D if a cyst is interfering with your quality of life. 

Excision Prevents Cyst Recurrence

If you have tried I&D in the past, or you have a stubborn cyst that just won’t quit, a complete cyst removal with a precision excision is the next best step. Our dermatologists make a slightly larger incision before carefully removing the entirety of the cyst and its lining. Since this procedure is more invasive than simple drainage, the surgical site requires sutures and more traditional aftercare. Excision can only be performed on a cyst that is not actively inflamed, but once any cyst ruptures have healed, this method of removal is the best way to prevent a stubborn cyst from reforming.

Contact Our Experienced Dermatologists Today

Are you concerned about a new lump or painful skin condition? Our family dermatology in Doylestown, PA offers comprehensive diagnostic services, personalized care plans, and will help you find a healthy skin solution with judgment-free compassion and expertise. If you have any questions about our effective treatment options, contact our caring team for free information today. 

Planning for any kind of surgery can be an intimidating prospect for even the toughest of patients. At Penn Derm, we understand how stressful it can be when you find out that a surgical procedure is necessary, and actively support our clients with empathy, personally tailored care plans, and offer minimally-invasive solutions that significantly reduce discomfort, shorten healing times, and result in long-term skin health and aesthetic improvements. 

With any of our precision surgical interventions, our experienced specialists focus on solving skin problems without damaging the surrounding tissue or forming excessive scar tissue. Our personalized approach to surgical care begins with detailed diagnostics, optimized care plans, and a variety of healing solutions related to your specific skin condition. Here are a few of the effective surgical treatments we have to offer. 

Electrodesiccation and Curettage is Quick & Prevents Infection

Also known as “scraping and burning”, ED&C is minimally invasive and not as painful as it sounds. First, the skin is numbed with pharmaceutical-grade anesthetics to minimize any discomfort. Your dermatologist then “scrapes” the skin cancer cells from the area with a tool called a curette. Since skin cancer cells don’t adhere to normal tissue as healthy cells do, this technique is remarkably effective for many kinds of superficial cancers. 

After the simple removal procedure, your dermatologist applies heat to the site with an electrodesiccation tool to both loosen any remaining skin cancer cells and minimize any bleeding. This heating process effectively closes the wound, preventing the need for sutures or complicated aftercare. Unlike traditional surgical procedures, our ED&C procedures only take about 10-15 minutes in an outpatient setting and only require basic follow-up screenings to monitor for any cancer recurrence. 

Standard Excision Heals Many Cancerous Conditions

Following a dermatoscope (skin microscope) evaluation and/or skin biopsy, our dermatologists may recommend the complete removal of the affected tissue. While this may sound like a scary procedure, our excision process only involves a small incision, is very tolerable, and is performed in our relaxed outpatient setting. 

Our dermatologists thoroughly numb the affected section of skin before carefully removing any problematic skin cells. Ideal for a range of cancerous conditions, this simple outpatient procedure is safe for almost any part of the body, heals quickly, and results in minimal scarring. 

MOHS Surgery Protects the Surrounding Skin

For more complex cases of skin cancer, MOHS micrographic surgery is the golden standard for the safe and precise removal of dangerous skin cells. During a MOHS surgery in Willow Grove, PA our precision excision technique removes the affected skin cells and a tiny margin of healthy tissue around the site to ensure a comprehensive removal has been performed. 

Unlike traditional skin excisions that may overlook cancerous tissue around the perimeter, our microscope-guided process actively investigates if there are any remaining cancerous cells in the healthy surrounding tissue. All of the cancerous tissue is removed in one procedure, resulting in a cancer-free treatment verified by the best dermatologist in Philadelphia.

After discovering that your irritated skin is melanoma, feeling anxious, nervous, or worried about the future is completely normal. We know how stressful that news can be, and when you partner with our dermatologist for skin cancer in Bucks County, you’ll discover a deeper level of care and a commitment to solving your problem with proven solutions.

Treating you with compassion, evidence-based procedures, and healing your skin with long-term risk reduction is our promise to you. By utilizing the latest advancements in dermatology for improved outcomes and lower rates of recurrence, we effectively target problematic cells while simultaneously preventing damage to the healthy skin nearby.

The First Phases of Melanoma Diagnosis

The key to our effective melanoma treatments begins with excellent diagnostics and laboratory analysis. During our comprehensive skin evaluations, we establish a clear picture of your skin’s underlying structures and identify exactly where the problem cells are. Using numbing creams and anesthetic medications for a virtually pain-free process, we then acquire small skin samples to verify a detailed skin analysis.

Once we have prepared a detailed diagnosis for your skin, we will help you compare the best treatment options available to you. Whichever treatment option we agree upon, you can expect our knowledgeable team to clearly explain the diagnosis and provide you with the resources you need to make a confident treatment decision.

We Help You Compare the Best Treatments

Before moving forward with the best treatment options, we organize a detailed plan of action specific to your case. Our thorough evaluation techniques result in highly specific treatments while enabling our dermatologists to minimize damage to the surrounding tissue.

For superficial or minimal thickness melanomas, surgical removal of the growth and a small margin of surrounding tissue is our primary treatment option. Our highly advanced techniques, such as MOHS surgical intervention, target the problematic cells with an unparalleled level of precision. Our number one goal is to preserve your skin’s health and minimize scarring, and thanks to our microscopic margin control, you can expect our careful removals to result in less noticeable scarring and a shorter recovery process. 

Get In Touch To Learn More

We understand that every melanoma treatment in Southampton, PA requires a personalized approach to care. When you trust in our experienced dermatologists to improve your outcomes, you can expect compassionate dedication from your first visit to the very last follow-up appointment. Your recovery is our number one priority; please get in touch with our caring dermatologists to learn more about our effective melanoma treatments today. 

From minor skin irritation to suspicious bumps or patches, you may have a lot on your mind as you browse the seemingly endless treatment and relief options. If you’re concerned about a new spot, have uncomfortable skin symptoms, or worry that your condition may be something more serious, don’t wait to get in touch with a dermatologist. Most common skin conditions are non-life threatening and treatable, but seeking responsive treatment is always a smart decision.  Before scheduling that appointment, here are some common patient concerns that an experienced dermatologist will help to address. 

1. What Does a Typical Skin Examination Involve? 

Most skin conditions can be accurately diagnosed with a visual inspection from a dermatologist. In most modern dermatology offices, they utilize a handheld skin microscope to identify any abnormalities and properly categorize the issue. If the dermatologist decides that they would like to investigate your skin condition further, your provider may take a very small skin sample for further analysis. Thanks to numbing creams and anesthetic medicines, even if you need to give a skin sample, you will hardly feel a thing. 

 2. Are Dermatology Treatments Painful? 

Many dermatology treatments are 100% pain-free. Most of our treatments involve topical treatments like medicated creams, utilize light therapy, or are minimally invasive with simple procedures that can be done on the same day. Even for patients that require more extensive treatments, we focus on two major components of treatment; improve our patients’ skin health with gentle, evidence-based practices and reduce healing time by targeting problematic areas of skin with precision techniques that preserve the surrounding tissue. 

3. What is Dermatology Treatment Recovery Like? 

Since our skin treatments are gentle and minimally invasive, most of our patients can return to normal activity the same day or the day after treatment. Of course, the length of recovery depends on the service you need, but even with our minimally invasive surgical procedures, recovery is generally very fast and tolerable. With treatments like phototherapy and topical skin care, you can expect a recovery-free process. 

4. Are Dermatology Appointments Covered by Insurance? 

Yes, most group plans and private insurance plans include coverage for dermatologists. Make sure that you double-check your insurance information to verify that dermatology is included in your list of covered specialties. Our dermatologist in Willow Grow, PA accepts many insurance providers, with services like skin screenings/diagnostics, surgical interventions, and prescriptions fully or partially covered by your insurance company. Depending on your insurance plan, certain cosmetic services like fine-line reduction or botox treatments may not be covered under your plan. 

5. How Accessible is My Dermatologist? 

When you reach out to us for family dermatology in Doylestown, PA, you can expect a comprehensive level of support from your first call to the last follow-up appointment. We are focused on clear communication and helpful guidance every step of the way, and even offer our clients virtual telehealth appointments for unparalleled access to our caring dermatologists at any time. 

The health of your skin is a priority, and thanks to advances in telemedicine, it’s easier than ever to receive the quality health care you deserve from the comfort of home. From new patches of skin that are bothering you, to long-term treatments and health guidance whenever it’s most convenient, taking advantage of telehealth services is one of the best ways to ensure that you’re doing the best that you can to take care of your skin. Before logging on for your visit with the dermatologist, here are some tips to prepare you to make the most of your virtual visit. 

Find a Quiet Space

Whether you’re calling about a rosacea treatment in Southampton, PA, or you need guidance on the latest changes in your health status, designate a space in your home that allows for clear communication with your provider. If you can, schedule the telehealth visit at a time when others are gone and distractions are at a minimum. This time is about you and your skin, and a quiet place to communicate will make it easier for the doctors to assist you. 

Bright Lighting Backed by a Quality Camera

With virtual dermatology appointments, the more the doctor can see you, the better the diagnostics and guidance will be. Many dermatology issues look very similar, so use your best camera, set up a clear background, and ensure that there is ample lighting to help the doctor see the smaller details of your skin. 

While setting up your camera, it’s best to have the light shining directly at you from behind the camera. You want to avoid aiming the camera at windows or interior lights; this will prevent glare and allow your provider to view the skin with a clearer definition.

The space should also be large enough for you to move around and show your doctor the areas of concern from multiple angles. Ideally, you can find a private space that makes the visit as comfortable as possible, while making it easier for the doctor to see everything that they need to. 

Set an Appointment Reminder

The best dermatologist in the Philadelphia area can only help you if you log in on time! Set a calendar alarm on your phone, place a note on the fridge, or ask a family member to remind you about your appointment if you have a habit of missing important events! 

Be sure to wear appropriate attire that makes it easy to expose only the areas you want to expose. Your privacy is a priority for our providers, and we do our best to make every telehealth appointment as comfortable and respectful as possible. You can easily schedule visits regularly, or set up a one-time appointment if you ever have any concerns about your health, want to learn about effective treatment options, or have any other questions about our extensive dermatology diagnostics, treatments, and ongoing care. 

Actinic keratoses, also known as “solar keratosis or AKs”, can develop from excess UV exposure from both natural sun exposure or tanning beds. The resulting UV skin damage commonly appears on the face, neck, forearms, and any other regularly exposed areas of the skin. Since actinic keratoses can appear on the skin in many different colors, sizes, and shapes, accurate identification from a licensed dermatologist is essential if you have any new skin concerns.

How to Identify Actinic Keratoses

Actinic keratosis may be impacting your skin’s health if you notice any rough, scaly, or dry areas of skin with a raised texture. AKs may be red, tan, white, pink, or a combination of colors. These discolorations and texture abnormalities are usually small sections of skin, but depending on the severity of the skin damage, AKs can form larger patches that are noticeably different from the surrounding skin. 

Why is it Important to Identify Actinic Keratoses? 

While most cases of AK are not cancerous, any form of excess UV exposure increases your risk for skin cancer. If left untreated, anywhere from 1-10% of AKs can eventually mutate into squamous cell carcinoma. Generally, the dermatologist’s recommendation is to treat or remove the damaged tissue as soon as possible, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer, have underlying conditions, or present with other high-risk factors like increased age, lighter skin tone, or immune weakness. 

Cryosurgery is a Safe & Effective Treatment Option

Fortunately, there are several safe and effective treatment options for managing actinic keratosis. Unlike topical treatments that can lead to unsightly inflammation and redness, cryosurgery is commonly utilized for its effectiveness, shortened healing times, and overall long-term benefits. Using a targeted liquid nitrogen treatment to neutralize the damaged skin cells, cryosurgery is a reliable preventative treatment option that greatly reduces your risk of developing skin cancer.

After freezing the problematic cells with cryosurgery, most cases of AK are fully treated and cured. As the at-risk cells die and slough off, healthy skin grows back in its place. This proven technique is the most common AK treatment option for good reason; since the specific area is carefully targeted, patients benefit from minimal scarring, appointments are fast and easy, and there are fewer side-effects than other less effective treatments. 

Discuss the Best Treatment Options With a Licensed Dermatologist

If you notice any new rough, raised, or discolored patches of skin, don’t wait to seek a professional dermatologist diagnosis. The skin specialists at Pennsylvania Dermatology Specialists have years of experience diagnosing, treating, and providing thorough follow-up skin examinations. Almost every type of skin condition can be safely treated, and with the proven diagnosis and treatment options, you can expect to experience improved skin health, personalized guidance, and lasting peace of mind. 

If you’d like to learn more about cryosurgery and why it’s so effective, get in touch with our board-certified dermatologists to learn more. As one of the best Dermatologists in Bucks County, PA, we offer flexible appointments, affordable services, and are committed to verified solutions that promote long-term skin health.  

Early detection is key when it comes to melanoma skin safety. If you’re concerned about suspect moles, new freckles, or unusual patches of skin, understanding a few melanoma basics will prepare you to proactively protect your skin’s health.

What is Melanoma? 

Melanoma involves the cells in your upper layer of skin responsible for producing pigmentation. Also known as melanocytes, these melanin-producing powerhouses can be damaged by UV radiation from excess sun exposure or tanning beds. Once abnormal cell division within these cells occurs, this type of cancer is more dangerous since it can spread to underlying tissues and organs.

Melanoma is Different Than Basal & Squamous Cell Carcinoma

All types of skin cancer feature a similar mechanism of growth; abnormal cell division replaces normal tissue regeneration within the layers of the skin. As the names imply, basal and squamous carcinomas affect the basal or squamous cells within the inner or outer layers of the skin. These abnormal cell growths are less likely to spread, and generally, involve more superficial layers of tissue. Although less risky than melanoma, prompt dermatology assistance is still a priority.

The Common Risk Factors of Melanoma

There are several considerations to keep in mind when on the lookout for melanoma. There are many common risk factors involved in skin cancer formation and it is important to have a skin care professional who is thorough in their evaluation. Common predisposing factors that increase your risk for developing melanoma include:

• Increasing Age
• History of Sunburns
• Previous Skin Cancer
• Immunosuppressed Individuals
• Family History
• Lighter Skin Tones

You Can Develop Melanoma Without Sun Damage

Even if you’ve always worn sunscreen, covered your skin, and avoided sunny days because of your sensitive skin, family history and other cellular mutations can still lead to the formation of melanoma. To be on the safe side, contact Pennsylvania Dermatology Specialists if you notice any of the ABCDEs of melanoma skin occurrences:

• Asymmetrical: Unusually shaped growths
• Border: Irregular or poorly defined edges
• Color: Varying colors throughout growth
• Diameter: Melanoma is usually 6mm or larger
• Evolving: Growths changing in size

Melanoma is Treatable

Since melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, it’s important to seek the help of a dermatologist in Southampton, PA if you have any skin concerns. At Pennsylvania Dermatology Specialists, they provide a range of effective treatment solutions, specialize in accurate diagnosis, careful planning, and will help you discover a solution that considers every aspect of your wellbeing. 

Featuring evidence-based solutions at Pennsylvania Dermatology Specialists, you can expect comprehensive treatment. Initially, they provide in-depth examinations and acquire detailed tissue samples. Following their experienced diagnosis, they offer tissue-preserving surgical excisions and will tailor a specific healing strategy around your case. Along with the best treatments in the world of dermatology, Pennsylvania Dermatology Specialists is dedicated to trusted follow-up guidance and will provide ongoing support long after effective treatment. 

With an estimated 3.6 million cases diagnosed annually within the U.S., basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. Fortunately, this form of skin cancer is also among the most treatable forms of cancer. Unlike other carcinomas, like squamous cell carcinoma that is more likely to spread and involve other organ tissues, basal cell carcinoma grows more slowly. While less risky than other types of carcinomas, basal cell carcinoma is still a serious health concern and prompt treatment should be a priority. 

Common Characteristics of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma affects the cells lining; the deepest part of the skin’s outer layer. Basal cell carcinoma does not always look the same; it can appear in different areas, colors, and shapes. These are some common skin conditions to look out for that may be a cause for concern:

• Small Shiny Bumps: Usually found on the nose, neck, or areas of skin with excessive sun exposure.
• Flesh or Dark Colored Skin Abnormalities: Raised areas of skin with persistent growths that look similar to moles or large freckles. 
• Waxy, Hardened Skin: Raised areas may present with blood vessels and abnormal skin texture. 
• Red, Scaly Patches: These scaly patches are fragile, and can bleed easily.
• Open Sores: Unusual areas of open skin, often accompanied by reddened and irritated surrounding tissue. 

Regularly inspecting your skin and areas of frequent sun exposure is the best way to proactively protect your skin’s health. If you’re experiencing any of these skin symptoms, reach out to the best dermatologist in Bucks County, PA for a professional skin evaluation before your condition worsens. 

Treating Basal Cell Carcinoma

Due to the superficial nature of most basal cell carcinomas, minimally invasive procedures have been proven to be safe and effective. While other carcinomas may require more invasive interventions because they can affect internal tissues like the respiratory tract, kidneys, breasts, or digestive tract, basal cell carcinoma is often easier to access and treat. 

Depending on the location, size, and skin type involved, there are several options for completely curing this form of cancer. The most common treatment for basal cell carcinoma is surgical removal of cancer and a few millimeters of the surrounding tissue to prevent a recurrence. If traditional surgical intervention isn’t a viable option, options like radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and topical immune response modifiers have proven effective for the safe treatment of basal cell carcinoma. 

If you’re concerned that you may have basal cell carcinoma, you must get in touch with Pennsylvania Dermatology Specialists for a professional diagnosis and proven treatment as soon as possible.

As leading dermatology specialists in Pennsylvania, we treat every patient’s healthcare needs with a personalized approach to healing. With years of experience treating skin disorders of all kinds, our dermatology team approaches every skincare case with proven evaluation techniques and advanced treatment solutions designed to heal your skin while protecting the surrounding tissue. By offering our patients a comprehensive selection of minimally-invasive health options, our patients experience reduced healing times, long-lasting beneficial outcomes, and improved quality of life. Catching melanoma and all other skin cancers in their early stages is your best chance at a great outcome.

Careful Diagnosis is the First Step

Before moving forward with any treatment, a careful skin analysis is our first step. Using advanced diagnostic equipment, we take a skin biopsy of the at-risk area and assess the surrounding tissue. Once we have accurately evaluated your skin’s condition, we tailor a personalized healing strategy around your specific needs. 

The Best Follow-Up Care for Long-Term Healing

When you trust our dermatology specialists for the best melanoma treatment in Bucks County, PA, you can expect an unparalleled commitment to your long-term healing goals. Following a melanoma treatment, we routinely evaluate your skin’s health and ensure that our interventions have successfully prevented cancer recurrence. 

If you have any concerns about your skin or would like to learn more about our comprehensive melanoma treatments, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our knowledgeable healthcare team today. We treat our patient’s skin concerns as a priority and do our best to share honest guidance and realistic solutions that consider every aspect of your healing goals.