RefinedMD
800 Pollard Road, Building A
Los Gatos, CA 95032
Phone: (408) 688-2082
Office Hours:
Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Saturday: Please call for availability
Closed Sundays & Holidays
Technically, skin cancer is an uncontrolled growth of one of the skin cell types. It almost always presents as a suspicious mole, but not always. If the growth continues unchecked, it can spread to the bloodstream and lymphatic system. Once it spreads, it becomes much more dangerous.
Melanoma is just one type of skin cancer, but it’s the deadliest of any of the cancers. However, all types of skin cancer are also the easiest to treat when caught and diagnosed early. Less dangerous types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, sebaceous carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
Skin cancer is most common in areas that are often exposed to the sun, like the face, neck, and arms. Those UV rays can really do a number on you, whether it’s from the sun or tanning beds. Using sunscreen whenever you’re exposed to the sun, hats, and long-sleeved clothing form the foundation of skin cancer protection.
Those with a lighter skin color, family or personal history of skin cancer, and who are regularly exposed to the sun are at a higher risk of skin cancer. If you have a history of sunburns, especially as a child, you’re at a higher risk. Skin that freckles, reddens, or burns easily is more vulnerable to skin cancer, as are those with a lot of moles, who have blonde or red hair, or who have light-colored eyes. However, those who have darker skin can also develop skin cancer. It can happen to anyone.
Since establishing RefinedMD in 2012, Dr. Swengel has earned a reputation throughout the South Bay as one of the area’s top cosmetic and medical dermatologists. He is sought out for his expertise as a Mohs micrographic surgeon and laser treatment specialist, as well as his warm, attentive style of patient care.
Meet Dr. Steven Swengel
Before skin cancer, there’s pre-cancer, which can present as actinic keratosis. It begins as scaly, rough bumps. These skin abnormalities can turn into squamous cell carcinoma if not addressed. Be on the lookout for new growths or changes in the skin in between your annual skin checks. Since not all sun damage is related to cancer, yearly skin exams are essential for peace of mind. Sometimes the skin does funky things. Whether it’s cancerous or not is impossible for anyone but a dermatologist to tell.
If you do need to have a mole biopsied, Dr. Swengel trained at the American College of Mohs Surgery and was head of the Mohs Department with Kaiser Permanent. Mohs surgery is the most advanced and effective means of removing cancerous cells in a single appointment. This in-office treatment lets patients wait while the removed mole is checked in the lab for clear margins. If margins aren’t clear, more of the affected area is removed for re-testing during the same visit. This process continues until the patient can leave cancer-free with all-clear borders.
However, before patients leave, the excision is reconstructed to minimize wounds. These tiny wounds heal by secondary-intention and heal up on their own. Larger wounds may require stitches. Supersized wounds may need a skin graft for effective healing. In very rare occasions, the patient may be referred to a reconstructive surgical specialist. The top goal is patient safety, but looking good after that close call is important, too.
RefinedMD is an out-of-network clinic which means we do not have a contract or communicate with any health insurance providers. A payment receipt along with a super bill will be provided following your appointment, which you can use to seek possible reimbursement from your insurance provider. Please understand that payment is expected to be paid in full at the time of your appointment. Learn more about insurance at RefinedMD.
At RefinedMD many patients ask whether they really need a yearly mole check, especially if they have never had a concerning spot before. The answer is yes, because skin cancer often develops quietly and can …
When you book a skin check, you and your provider will review existing moles and new growths, and you’ll want to be aware of the well-known “ABCDE” rule. A stands for Asymmetry, meaning one half …
Short days, softer sunlight, and cooler weather make late fall and winter ideal for full-body skin exams. With less UV exposure, your skin is calmer and easier to evaluate, and any biopsies or follow-up care …
Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and plenty of time outdoors—but it also means months of UV exposure that can quietly damage your skin. Even with diligent sunscreen use, small changes in moles or new spots may …
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