When you notice a new spot on your skin, it is natural to feel a bit worried. At SWFL Dermatology Plastic Surgery & Laser Center in Naples, Florida, we help you understand your skin health. Dr. Joseph Onorato and our team provide personalized care for all your dermatological needs. If you are concerned about sun damage, we offer comprehensive skin cancer evaluations to help you feel at peace.
While many people believe that skin cancer affects one in eight people, the actual numbers are different. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. This makes staying aware of your skin health highly important.
You don’t necessarily need an automatic annual screening if you’re at average risk. The US Preventive Services Task Force found inadequate evidence that routine visual skin exams by a doctor reduce illness or death in asymptomatic adults. This guideline does not apply to people with a personal or family history of skin cancer.
Instead of a universal rule, we recommend discussing your personal risk factors with a provider. Your skin type, history of childhood sunburns, and tanning bed use all play a role. We help you evaluate these risks to decide if a specialist exam makes sense for you.
Checking your own skin regularly is one of the best ways to catch issues early. The American Cancer Society advises having a healthcare provider check any new, growing, or changing spot on your skin. Also, watch for any sore that itches, bleeds, or doesn’t heal after a few weeks.
Self-exams are simple but require you to know your baseline. We recommend checking your entire body in a well-lit room, perhaps using a mirror for hard-to-see areas. If you find anything unusual, it is always safest to have a professional take a look.
At our Naples office, we provide complete care under one roof. We offer general dermatology services to manage sun damage and monitor suspicious spots. If we detect a malignant lesion, our team is fully equipped to guide you through treatment.
Our practice features specialized services, including Mohs surgery for precise, tissue-sparing cancer removal. With our own dermatopathologist on staff, we can evaluate skin samples quickly and accurately. We treat you like family, ensuring you feel supported and informed at every step of your care.
Protecting your skin starts with understanding your personal risks and watching for changes. If you have noticed a concerning spot or want to discuss your risk factors, we are here to help. Please contact our team or use our online portal to schedule a visit at our Naples, Florida, office today.
