Prevention

Defense Against Future Skin Cancers

The most important thing you can do to lessen the possibility or developing future skin cancers is to protect your skin from further sun damage. This is easily achieved by the daily application of sunscreens to all exposed skin, including the tops of the ears. You also may wish to obtain further protection by wearing a broad brimmed hat and appropriate protective clothing.

Apply the sunscreen 15 minutes before you go outdoors. It may wash off with water or heavy perspiration, so be sure to reapply a sunscreen after swimming or exercise, and use a sunscreen labeled “waterproof.”

A number of excellent sunscreens are available. Whatever sunscreen you choose, it should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, but preferably higher.

Follow-up Visits

Once your surgery is over, periodic followup exams by your referring physician are important for at least five years. These visits can help with early detection and treatment of new skin cancers that may develop as well as the rare recurrence of the skin cancer, that was treated. If you notice any suspicious areas on your skin between visits, it is best to check with your doctor to see if a biopsy is needed.