skin-cancer

Montana Dermatologist Tips: Early Detection & Treatment of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States—challenging but highly treatable when identified early. At Yellowstone Dermatology in Billings, MT, our expert team is committed to raising awareness and equipping patients across Montana and Wyoming with the knowledge to spot early warning signs and access the most effective care. Whether you're seeking a dermatologist near me in Billings or a Cody dermatologist, this guide offers essential tips to keep your skin healthy and protected.

Understanding Why Early Detection Matters

When skin cancer goes undetected, what starts as a small, treatable spot can become invasive. Delays in treatment may result in more extensive procedures and slower recovery. Early detection ensures:

· Smaller, more precise treatment

· Higher cure rates

· Faster healing with less scarring

· Fewer clinic visits and lower costs

Dr. Eric Maranda and our Billings dermatology team prioritize early discovery. Catching a suspicious spot early can save you unnecessary worry and help maintain your overall wellness.

Spotting the Red Flags: What to Watch For

The ABCDEs of Melanoma

Melanoma is more serious but far less common than basal or squamous cell cancers. Keep an eye out for:

· A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other

· B – Border: Irregular or jagged edges

· C – Color: Multiple shades—brown, black, red, white, or blue

· D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)

· E – Evolution: Changing in size, shape, or color over time

Other Concerning Signs

· Non-healing sores or scaly patches that bleed or crust—often associated with basal cell carcinoma

· Firm, raised growths that may resemble warts—potentially squamous cell carcinoma

· Rapidly growing bumps that don’t resolve on their own

Spotting these signs early—especially when they first appear—gives you and your dermatologist Billings or Cody dermatology provider a powerful head start in treatment.

Who Is at Higher Risk? Understanding Your Skin Health

Knowing your risk level helps you stay vigilant and book screenings proactively. Common risk factors include:

· Fair skin, light eyes, and freckling—though skin cancer can impact anyone

· Family or personal history of skin cancer

· Frequent sun exposure or sunburns, especially without protection

· History of tanning bed use

· Advanced age, weakened immunity, or certain skin conditions

If you find yourself ticking any of these boxes, partner with a trusted dermatologist in Billings or Cody dermatologist to create a personalized screening and care plan.

Preventive Measures: Smart Sun Habits for Montanans

You don’t need to avoid the outdoors to protect your skin—just adopt better habits when you’re outside:

· Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher), every day—even on overcast days

· Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating

· Wear sun-protective clothing—long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses

· Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are at their strongest

· Avoid tanning beds, which emit UV rays linked to skin cancer

Our Billings clinic emphasizes these practical steps as part of a holistic health plan, helping you shield your skin safely while enjoying all that Montana offers.

Best Practices for Home Skin Checks

Regular self-exams are a key defense against advanced skin cancer. Follow this guide to stay on top of changes:

1. Check in front of a mirror—face, neck, arms, hands, torso

2. Use a handheld mirror for your back, shoulders, and scalp

3. Examine legs, feet, and under toenails

4. Look at buttocks and lower back

5. Document any suspicious areas with photos

6. Recheck any changes in shape, color, or texture

If you see something that fits the ABCDEs, don’t delay: schedule an evaluation with your dermatologist near me right away.

Advanced Treatment Options at Yellowstone Dermatology

Our team offers modern, effective skin cancer treatments designed to address each patient’s unique needs:

Mohs Micrographic Surgery: The Gold Standard

· Highest cure rates for basal and squamous cell carcinomas

· Tissue-saving precision reduces scarring and preserves healthy skin

· Real-time pathology ensures complete cancer removal

Our Billings dermatology team is trained in this effective, patient-first procedure.

SRT (GentleCure): A Non-Invasive Alternative

· Uses targeted superficial radiation

· Painless, surgical-free option with no downtime

· Ideal for specific early-stage cancers, matching Mohs in cure rates

Traditional Excision & Cryotherapy

· Simple Excision: Clean surgical removal of suspicious lesions

· Cryotherapy: Freezes actinic keratoses and small cancerous spots

Your dermatologist Billings or Cody dermatologist will help you choose the best approach based on lesion size, location, medical history, and lifestyle.

After Treatment: Staying Cancer-Free

Healing from skin cancer doesn’t end once the lesion is removed. Montana’s environment calls for ongoing effort and care:

· Regular follow-up visits – every three to twelve months, depending on your history

· Continue practicing sun-smart habits even after treatment

· Self-monitor monthly to catch any new or returning issues

· Report any new symptoms—itching, tenderness, bleeding, or color changes

Our team will set up a maintenance plan tailored to your history, risk level, and budget—so you remain safe and confident.

Why Our Dermatology Team Is a Trusted Choice

Choosing where to go for skin cancer evaluation and treatment is critical. Here’s why locals count on Yellowstone Dermatology:

· Led by board-certified professionals like Dr. Eric Maranda, experts in surgical and medical dermatology

· Convenient service locations in Billings, MT, and Cody, WY—ensuring you never have to travel far

· Comprehensive care for all skin conditions, from eczema to psoriasis to melanoma

· Modern facilities jointly offering Mohs suites and non-invasive treatment options

· Patient-first philosophy that combines clinical excellence with warmth, respect, and transparency

When searching for a dermatologist near me, you’ll find trusted care and accessibility across Montana and northern Wyoming.

Taking care of your skin isn’t just a matter of vanity—it’s an essential health practice, especially living under Montana’s sun. Whether you’re checking moles, applying sunscreen, or exploring early treatment options, every action counts. With the right guidance and local expertise from your dermatologist in Billings or Cody dermatologist, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin safe.

Prioritize regular skin checks, develop healthier sun habits, and trust our team at Yellowstone Dermatology for comprehensive, compassionate care. Schedule your skin cancer screening today—your skin’s future is worth protecting.