Navigating a Skin Cancer Diagnosis: Understanding Your Options

Hearing the words “you have skin cancer” can feel overwhelming—but with early detection, expert care, and a clear understanding of your treatment options, there is every reason for hope. At Applegarth Dermatology PC, with offices in La Porte and Valparaiso, IN, board-certified dermatologists Dr. William Applegarth and Dr. Alex Porucznik provide compassionate, comprehensive care to help patients navigate a skin cancer diagnosis with confidence and clarity.

Understanding Skin Cancer

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the skin grow uncontrollably. It is the most common type of cancer in the United States, but also one of the most treatable—especially when detected early.

The three main types include:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive form, often appearing as a pearly bump or pink patch.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Typically develops as a scaly or crusted growth that may bleed or become tender.
• Melanoma: A more serious form that can spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. It often appears as a dark, irregular mole or spot.

If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, the first step is to understand your specific type, stage, and location—information that helps your dermatologist design the best treatment plan for your needs.

What to Expect After a Diagnosis

At Applegarth Dermatology PC, our team takes time to explain every aspect of your diagnosis, answer questions, and outline the next steps. Depending on your results, we may recommend one or more of the following:

• Surgical removal: A precise procedure to completely remove cancerous tissue while preserving healthy skin.
• Mohs micrographic surgery: Often used for facial or recurrent skin cancers, this technique removes layers of tissue one at a time, ensuring complete clearance while minimizing scarring.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing small or early lesions with liquid nitrogen.
• Topical or photodynamic therapy: Nonsurgical treatments that use medicated creams or light therapy to target cancer cells.
• Follow-up skin checks: Regular monitoring helps detect any new or recurring spots early.

Our goal is not only to treat the cancer effectively but also to maintain your comfort, confidence, and peace of mind throughout the process.

The Importance of Ongoing Skin Monitoring

Even after successful treatment, continued vigilance is essential. Once you’ve had skin cancer, your risk for developing another increases. Regular full-body skin exams—both at home and with your dermatologist—can make a critical difference in long-term outcomes.

Keep an eye out for changes such as:

• New or growing moles
• Sores that don’t heal
• Changes in color, shape, or size of existing spots
• Areas of itching, bleeding, or tenderness

Dr. Applegarth, Dr. Porucznik, and their team will guide you through a personalized follow-up schedule to ensure your continued health and early detection of any concerns.

Supportive, Expert Care in La Porte and Valparaiso

A skin cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Applegarth Dermatology PC, our physicians combine advanced dermatologic expertise with compassionate patient care. We take pride in helping individuals understand their diagnosis, choose the best treatment, and move forward with reassurance and confidence.

Applegarth Dermatology PC

Serving patients in La Porte, IN and Valparaiso, IN

Call (219) 548-0360 to schedule your consultation.

Dr. William Applegarth, Dr. Alex Porucznik, and the Applegarth Dermatology team are here to guide you every step of the way.