Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. While it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent continued growth, tissue damage, and more extensive surgery.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) develops in the basal cells, which are found in the deepest layer of the epidermis (the skin’s outer layer). It is most often caused by years of ultraviolet (UV) exposure from the sun or tanning beds.
BCC is the most common skin cancer in the United States and is highly treatable when detected early. Although it usually grows slowly and rarely spreads to distant organs, it can continue growing into nearby skin, cartilage, and bone if left untreated.
Early treatment often results in simpler procedures, smaller scars, and excellent cure rates.
BCC most commonly appears on areas that receive the most sun exposure, including:
Basal cell carcinoma can appear in several different forms, which is why any new or changing skin lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Common signs include:
Many patients mistake basal cell carcinoma for a pimple, bug bite, or small sore that never completely heals.
Your risk of developing basal cell carcinoma increases if you:
Spend significant time in the sun
Have a history of frequent sunburns
Have fair skin, light eyes, or light hair
Have used tanning beds
Are over age 50
Have previously had skin cancer
Take medications that suppress your immune system
Have a family history of skin cancer
Most basal cell carcinomas are first identified during a skin examination.
Your provider may:
Because many skin cancers look similar, a biopsy provides the most accurate diagnosis.
Treatment depends on the location, size, subtype, and depth of the cancer.
The cancer and a small margin of surrounding tissue are removed to ensure complete treatment.
Best for:
Many low-risk basal cell carcinomas
Mohs surgery removes the cancer one layer at a time while each layer is examined under a microscope during the procedure.
Ideal for:
Face
Nose
Eyelids
Lips
Ears
Recurrent tumors
Larger cancers
High-risk locations
Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
A special medication is applied before light activates and destroys abnormal cells while preserving healthy skin.
Often recommended when many AKs are present.
Some superficial basal cell carcinomas may be treated with prescription topical medications.
Although basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads throughout the body, it should never be ignored.
Without treatment, it may:
Early treatment is almost always simpler than waiting.
While no one can completely eliminate their risk, you can lower your chances of developing BCC by:
Schedule an appointment if you notice:
Prompt evaluation often leads to smaller procedures and excellent outcomes.
Basal cell carcinoma is the least aggressive form of skin cancer, but it should still be treated promptly to prevent continued growth and damage to nearby tissue.
It is very uncommon for basal cell carcinoma to spread to other parts of the body. However, it can continue growing into nearby skin, cartilage, and bone if left untreated.
No. Many basal cell carcinomas can be treated with surgical excision or other methods. Mohs surgery is recommended for cancers in cosmetically sensitive or high-risk areas, recurrent tumors, and certain aggressive subtypes.
The primary cause is cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure from the sun or tanning beds over many years.
Yes. Even after successful treatment, people who have had one basal cell carcinoma have an increased risk of developing another skin cancer in the future. Regular skin exams are important for ongoing monitoring.
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Expert care across medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.
Extensive surgical experience supporting precise, effective treatment of skin cancer.
A level of training not all surgeons have, ensuring advanced care.
Dedicated facilities in Fayetteville and Rogers offering complete care under one roof.
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center provides expert diagnosis and treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common type of skin cancer. Our board-certified dermatology providers offer comprehensive care ranging from biopsies and surgical excision to fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic surgery performed by Dr. Lance Henry. With convenient locations in Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville, and Harrison, we provide advanced skin cancer treatment close to home.
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC proudly serves patients throughout Northwest Arkansas with convenient locations including:
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