Treat Skin Cancer with Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Weitzbuch
Brilliance Dermatology offers the finest board-qualified dermatologists and skin cancer specialists for the diagnosis and effective treatment of skin cancer and precancerous lesions. Available to you is comprehensive information regarding the risk factors of skin cancer, causes, symptoms, prevention, detection, and treatment. We offer specialized and advanced surgical techniques such as Mohs Micrographic Surgery, as well as innovative non-surgical options including GentleCure Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT). In addition, we screen moles for potential skin cancer, including malignant melanoma. Specifically, we treat skin cancer with any one of the following methods: Excision, Electrodesiccation and Curettage, Photodynamic Therapy, Topical Chemotherapy, Mohs Micrographic Surgery, and Image-Guided SRT.
Skin cancer occurs as a result of mutations in the DNA of skin cells, which can cause an abnormal growth of those cells. While the most common form of skin cancer develops as a result of exposure to the sun, cancer growths can also occur on areas of the body not exposed to sunlight. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are the three most common types of skin cancer.
Unfortunately, everyone is vulnerable to skin cancer. It's often associated with people who spend hours in tanning salons or lying in the sun, and cumulative sun exposure is responsible for many types of skin cancer. Even mild sunburns can cause damage that could lead to skin cancer. Patients who do not take proper precautions and do not routinely apply high-SPF sunscreen to the face and body over the course of their lives can inevitably accelerate this damage. Avoiding overexposure to the sun is important for protecting your skin from skin cancer. Patients with a family history of a skin condition, disorder, or skin cancer can benefit from the variety of services and treatments available at our office. Patients with a higher risk of skin cancer should seek regular visits and take preventative measures.
To reduce the risk of skin cancer, we recommend limiting your exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Always inspect your body for new changes or abnormal growths. If you notice a new mole on your body, make sure you have it checked by your dermatologist.
Advanced Treatment Options: GentleCure Image-Guided SRT
At Brilliance Dermatology, we're proud to partner with SkinCure Oncology to offer GentleCure Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT)—a surgery-free, gold-standard treatment option for non-melanoma skin cancer. This innovative approach provides patients with an effective alternative to surgical intervention, delivering exceptional results with minimal side effects and no scarring
What Is Image-Guided SRT?
Image-Guided SRT is a type of radiation therapy designed specifically for skin cancer treatment. This advanced technology uses low levels of X-ray energy—similar to what dentists use for dental X-rays—to target and eliminate cancerous cells while preserving healthy surrounding tissue. Treatment is performed right in our dermatology office by specially trained Radiation Therapists working under the supervision of Dr. Weitzbuch.
What makes GentleCure unique is its use of ultrasound imaging technology. This is the first and only radiation treatment for skin cancer that allows your medical team to see the exact size and depth of the cancer, measure it precisely, and track how it responds to treatment. You can actually watch the cancer shrink on the ultrasound screen throughout your treatment course—providing visual confirmation that the therapy is working.
How Effective Is GentleCure Image-Guided SRT?
Clinical research demonstrates remarkable effectiveness for Image-Guided SRT. Based on extensive studies involving thousands of patients and lesions, this treatment has shown:
- Over 99% cure rate for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas
- Outcomes comparable to or better than Mohs surgery
- Over 99% patient satisfaction with treatment outcomes and experience
- Superior cosmetic results with no surgical scarring
- No reported cases of secondary skin cancers as a result of treatment over seven years of patient data
Benefits of Choosing Image-Guided SRT
Patients who choose GentleCure Image-Guided SRT at Brilliance Dermatology enjoy numerous advantages:
- No surgery required: No cutting, stitches, bleeding, or surgical wounds
- Painless treatment: Most patients report no discomfort during sessions
- No scarring: Preserves the natural appearance of your skin
- Quick sessions: Each treatment takes approximately 15 minutes
- No downtime: Return to your normal activities immediately after treatment
- Precision targeting: Ultrasound imaging ensures accurate dosing and minimal impact on healthy tissue
- Visual progress tracking: Watch your cancer shrink throughout treatment
- Convenient location: All treatments performed right here in our office
- Safe for patients with comorbidities: An excellent option for patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, or those taking blood thinners who may face increased surgical risks
Who Is a Candidate for Image-Guided SRT?
Image-Guided SRT is an excellent treatment option for patients diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those who:
- Prefer to avoid surgery, surgical scars, or reconstructive procedures
- Have skin cancers on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, nose, ears, or scalp
- Experience medical conditions that make surgery riskier
- Take blood thinners or medications that affect clotting
- Have concerns about prolonged recovery time
- Want to maintain their normal daily routine during treatment
- Have multiple skin cancers requiring treatment
During your consultation, Dr. Weitzbuch will review your pathology report, discuss your treatment goals, and help determine whether Image-Guided SRT is the right choice for your specific situation.
What to Expect During Treatment
The treatment process is straightforward and comfortable. You'll be seated in a chair while ultrasound gel is applied to the treatment site. Using an imaging wand, your Radiation Therapist in Calabasas will capture a detailed image of the cancer, which you can view on screen. This image allows the team to measure the tumor's exact size and shape, calculate the precise radiation dose needed, and define the treatment area.
Once imaging is complete, the treatment device arm is positioned over the site, delivering the exact dose of low-energy X-rays to eliminate cancer cells without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. The entire session typically takes about 15 minutes.
Treatment courses generally span 5-7 weeks, with sessions scheduled according to your personalized treatment plan. Throughout this time, you'll see the cancer shrinking with each visit—providing reassurance that treatment is progressing effectively.
Minimal Side Effects
As with any medical procedure, Image-Guided SRT may cause some side effects, though they are typically mild to moderate and temporary. The most common side effects include:
- Redness or irritation at the treatment site
- Mild thinning or breakdown of treated skin
- Temporary darkening or lightening of treated skin
- Hair loss within the treatment area
- Temporary dryness (if treating areas like the nose)
These side effects are manageable and usually resolve within 2-6 weeks after treatment completion. Dr. Weitzbuch and our team will provide guidance on caring for the treated area throughout your therapy.
Early Detection Is Key In Treating Skin Cancer
With the exception of melanoma, a dangerous cancer once it spreads, most forms of cancerous skin are easy to treat and won't cause long-term damage to your health. Of course, with all types of skin cancer, early detection is key.
Regular skin cancer checks by one of our dermatologists are crucial to the early detection of skin cancer. A diagnosis of skin cancer is determined by the results of a biopsy. Self-exams are also important to screen for prominent types of skin cancer as well as precancerous lesions.
At Brilliance Dermatology, located in Los Angeles, we specialize in diagnosing and treating skin cancers in a patient-focused environment. Whether you're a candidate for Mohs surgery or prefer the non-surgical approach of GentleCure Image-Guided SRT, our experts will help you along every step of the path to treating any skin cancer growth you may develop.
Call us today to schedule a skin cancer screening with our caring, professional physicians.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a mole and a birthmark?
Moles are growths on the skin that are usually brown or black and can be flat or raised. Birthmarks are marks on the skin that are present at birth or develop shortly after. Both can be benign, but they should be monitored for any changes that may indicate a health issue.
Are all moles and birthmarks dangerous?
Not all moles and birthmarks are dangerous. However, it's important to regularly monitor them for any changes in size, shape, or color, as these could be signs of skin cancer. If you notice any suspicious changes, schedule a consultation with a dermatologist as soon as possible.
How can I get rid of a mole or birthmark?
Mole and birthmark removal can be done through various methods, including excision, laser treatments, or cryotherapy. A dermatologist will assess the area and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the size, location, and type of growth.
How do you check moles for skin cancer?
A dermatologist will examine your moles and birthmarks during a skin checkup, looking for signs of abnormal changes such as asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, or rapid growth. They may use a dermatoscope to closely inspect the mole or birthmark for further analysis.
Is mole removal covered by insurance?
If the mole is suspected to be cancerous or requires removal for medical reasons, it may be covered by insurance. However, if the removal is purely cosmetic, insurance typically does not cover the procedure. It's best to check with your insurance provider for details.
How is Image-Guided SRT different from traditional surgery?
Image-Guided SRT is a non-surgical treatment that uses low-energy X-rays to eliminate cancer cells without cutting, stitches, or scarring. Unlike surgery, there is no wound to heal, no recovery downtime, and no risk of surgical complications. Treatment is performed in our office over several weeks, allowing you to maintain your normal activities throughout.
Is Image-Guided SRT covered by insurance?
Yes, Image-Guided SRT is covered by Medicare and most commercial insurance companies. Coverage depends on individual plans, so we recommend discussing your specific coverage with our office. Our team will work with you to understand your benefits and estimated costs before beginning treatment.
How long does each Image-Guided SRT treatment session take?
Each treatment session typically takes about 15 minutes. You'll sit comfortably while our Calabasas Radiation Therapist uses ultrasound imaging to view the cancer and deliver the precise dose of X-ray energy needed. There is no downtime, and you can resume your normal activities immediately after each session.
Will I be able to see my cancer shrinking during treatment?
Yes. One of the unique advantages of GentleCure Image-Guided SRT is that ultrasound imaging allows both you and your treatment team to see the cancer on screen at each session. You'll be able to watch the tumor shrink throughout your treatment course, providing visual confirmation that therapy is working effectively.
Contact Us Today!
23501 Park Sorrento #216 Calabasas, CA 91302
1000 Newbury Rd. #180,Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Contact© Brilliance Dermatology. Alternate Phone: (818) 222-7495
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