Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) Treatment
The most common skin cancer, treated with precision and care by our board-certified specialists.
What You Need to Know About Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, making up nearly 80% of all skin cancer diagnoses in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, more new cases of non-melanoma skin cancer—which includes both BCC and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)—are diagnosed each year than all other cancers combined. While BCC tends to grow slowly and rarely spreads to distant organs, early detection and proper treatment are critical to prevent extensive local damage and disfigurement.
At Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, we specialize in the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of basal cell carcinoma using advanced techniques like Mohs micrographic surgery, topical therapies, and more. Our approach focuses on preserving healthy tissue, reducing recurrence risk, and ensuring the best possible cosmetic results.
What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma arises from the basal cells in the skin, which are responsible for producing new skin cells as old ones die off. BCC most commonly develops on sun-exposed areas of the body, particularly:
- Face
- Nose
- Lips
- Ears
- Neck
- Scalp
Although BCC typically grows slowly, certain cases can become aggressive, invade deeper skin layers, and damage nearby tissues like cartilage and bone. In rare situations, untreated BCC can become life-threatening.
What Causes Basal Cell Carcinoma?
The primary cause of BCC is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. UV rays damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to abnormal growth and tumor formation.
Key Risk Factors for BCC:

- Frequent sun exposure without sun protection
- History of sunburns, especially blistering burns in childhood
- Fair skin, light-colored eyes, and blonde or red hair
- Family history of basal cell carcinoma
- Personal history of skin cancer (BCC or SCC)
- Exposure to radiation therapy
- Immunosuppression (such as in organ transplant recipients)
- Increasing age (though younger individuals are being diagnosed more frequently)
Men are more likely to develop BCC than women, but the incidence among women is on the rise, particularly in those under the age of 40.
Warning Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Recognizing the early warning signs of BCC can make a significant difference in outcomes. Not all BCC lesions look the same, but common signs include:
- An
open sore that doesn’t heal, bleeds, oozes, or crusts over repeatedly
- A
flat, scaly patch with pearly or translucent edges
- A
small pink bump with an ulcerated or sunken center
- A
shiny, translucent bump that may appear white, pink, red, or even dark (brown or black), especially in people with darker skin tones
- A
scar-like area that is white, yellow, or waxy with poorly defined borders—often signaling a more invasive form
If you notice any of these skin changes, especially on sun-exposed areas,
schedule a professional evaluation promptly.
How is Basal Cell Carcinoma Diagnosed?
A skilled dermatologist can often identify BCC through a visual exam. However, to confirm the diagnosis, a skin biopsy is typically performed. This involves removing a small tissue sample from the suspicious area, which is then examined under a microscope to determine if cancerous cells are present.
Early diagnosis ensures a broader range of treatment options and minimizes the risk of recurrence.
Treatment Options for Basal Cell Carcinoma
The right treatment for BCC depends on several factors, including the tumor's size, location, depth, and your overall health. We provide personalized treatment plans to achieve the highest cure rates with the best cosmetic outcomes. Common treatment options include:
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery: Precision removal of cancerous tissue while sparing healthy tissue—ideal for sensitive areas like the face and scalp, with high cure rates.
- Surgical Excision: Removing the tumor along with a margin of healthy skin.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing cancer cells with liquid nitrogen, often used for small, superficial tumors.
- Topical Medications: Prescription creams or gels that stimulate the immune system or destroy abnormal cells (such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil).
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Combines light treatment with photosensitizing agents to target cancer cells.
- Curettage and Electrodessication: Scraping away the tumor followed by electric current application to destroy remaining cancer cells.
The choice of treatment is guided by factors like
tumor aggressiveness, cosmetic concerns, and patient preference.
Why Early Detection of Basal Cell Carcinoma Matters
Catching BCC early offers the best chance for successful treatment with minimal impact on appearance and function. Untreated lesions can grow deeply into the skin and surrounding structures, leading to more complex surgeries or disfigurement.
We recommend
annual skin checks and encourage anyone with suspicious lesions or risk factors to consult a dermatology specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basal Cell Carcinoma
How serious is basal cell carcinoma?
While BCC rarely spreads to distant organs, it can cause significant local tissue damage if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications.
Can basal cell carcinoma return after treatment?
Yes, BCC can recur at the same site or develop in new areas. Treatments like Mohs surgery offer lower recurrence rates. Regular follow-up exams are crucial.
How do I know if I have basal cell carcinoma?
If you notice a persistent sore, shiny bump, scaly patch, or scar-like area on your skin—especially in sun-exposed regions—schedule a skin evaluation with a dermatologist.
Is Mohs surgery the best treatment for BCC?
Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating BCC in cosmetically sensitive or high-risk areas due to its high success rate and tissue-sparing approach.
How can I reduce my risk of developing BCC?
To lower your risk of basal cell carcinoma:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
- Wear protective clothing and hats
- Avoid tanning beds
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM–4 PM)
- Perform regular self-skin exams and attend annual dermatology checkups
Schedule Your Schedule Your Skin Check Today
At Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, we prioritize your health and peace of mind. Whether you need a routine skin cancer screening or treatment for basal cell carcinoma, our team provides compassionate, expert care in a state-of-the-art setting.
Don’t wait—early diagnosis can save your skin and your life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
