Skin Cancer Screenings & Full-Body Skin Exams
in Northwest Arkansas

Detect Skin Cancer Early with a Comprehensive Skin Exam

A skin cancer screening, also called a full-body skin exam, is one of the most effective ways to detect skin cancer early—often before it causes symptoms. During your appointment, one of our experienced dermatology providers carefully examines your skin from head to toe, looking for suspicious moles, changing lesions, and early signs of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Whether you're scheduling your first skin exam or returning for your annual skin cancer screening, we're here to help protect your skin health with expert, personalized care.

Why Skin Cancer Screenings Matter

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but when detected early, it is often highly treatable. Because many skin cancers develop without pain or noticeable symptoms, routine skin cancer screenings play an important role in protecting your long-term health.

A professional full-body skin exam can:

  • Detect skin cancer at its earliest stages
  • Identify suspicious moles and changing lesions
  • Increase the likelihood of successful treatment
  • Reduce the need for more extensive procedures
  • Provide peace of mind about your skin
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center Acne Treatment
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center Skin Exam Skin Cancer Screening

Who Should Have a Skin Cancer Screening?

Everyone can benefit from periodic skin exams, but annual skin cancer screenings are especially important if you have:

  • Fair skin, light-colored eyes, or light hair
  • A history of frequent sunburns
  • Significant lifetime sun exposure
  • Used indoor tanning beds
  • Multiple or unusual moles
  • A personal history of skin cancer
  • A family history of melanoma
  • A weakened immune system
  • A new, changing, or concerning spot on your skin

 

Even if you don’t have any known risk factors, becoming familiar with your skin through routine full-body skin exams can help detect changes early.

Meet Our Skin Cancer Team

Experienced Skin Cancer Detection Starts Here

Our board-certified dermatologists and experienced dermatology providers perform comprehensive skin cancer screenings for patients of all ages. If additional testing or treatment is needed, you’ll have access to seamless care within one of Arkansas’s leading dermatology practices—from biopsy and pathology to advanced surgical care and Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery.

Physicians

Board-certified dermatologists providing comprehensive and surgical dermatologic care.

Dr. Lance Henry, MD

Lance Henry, M.D., FAAD, FACMS, FASDS, is a Fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon and Northwest Arkansas’ leading expert in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment.

A double board-certified dermatologist and micrographic surgeon, Dr. Henry has performed more than 19,000 Mohs procedures.

He specializes in surgical, cosmetic, and general dermatology and is recognized nationally for his expertise, research, and commitment to advancing patient care.

Dr. Ryan Rich, MD

Ryan Rich, M.D., FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist with more than a decade of experience in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

A Brown University residency graduate, Dr. Rich specializes in skin cancer prevention, acne, eczema, injectable fillers, neuromodulators, and rejuvenation therapies.

He is also recognized for his extensive clinical research and commitment to advancing dermatologic care through education and innovation.

Advanced Practice Providers

Our advanced providers work closely with our physicians to deliver high-quality dermatologic care across a wide range of conditions.

  • Certified Physician Assistant

Andrea Thompson,
PA-C

Andrea Thompson, PA-C, is an experienced dermatology provider specializing in general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

With more than 20 years of experience, including over a decade at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC, Andrea specializes in fillers, Botox, RF microneedling, laser resurfacing, and personalized rejuvenation treatments that enhance natural beauty and confidence.

  • Certified Physician Assistant, Diplomate Fellow – SDPA
Ryan Crowder,
PA-C

Ryan Crowder, PA-C, is an experienced dermatology provider specializing in general and cosmetic dermatology and has been with Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC for over 12 years.

A SDPA Diplomat Fellow, the highest distinction for dermatology physician assistants, Ryan is passionate about acne, eczema, thinning hair, and skin cancer prevention. He is known for his compassionate care and patient-focused approach to healthy skin.

  • Certified Physician Assistant, Diplomate Fellow – SDPA
Jon Dickson,
PA-C

Jon Dickson, PA-C, is a dermatology provider specializing in medical and surgical dermatology.

A SDPA Diplomat Fellow, the highest distinction for dermatology physician assistants, Jon is known for his compassionate, patient-centered care and attention to detail. After beginning his career in interventional radiology, he found his passion in dermatology and is dedicated to helping patients feel comfortable and confident in their skin.

  • Certified Physician Assistant, Diplomate Fellow – SDPA
Wil Ross,
PA-C

Wil Ross, PA-C, is an experienced dermatology provider specializing in skin cancer prevention, skin health, and graceful aging.

A SDPA Diplomate Fellow and dermatology clinical instructor, Wil is known for his compassionate, patient-centered approach and dedication to education. He is passionate about helping patients achieve healthier skin through personalized, expert dermatologic care.

  • Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner
Lyndsey Whitaker,
APRN DCNP

Lyndsey Whitaker, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, DCNP, is a Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in medical dermatology, skin cancer screenings, and minor surgical procedures.

With more than 15 years of healthcare experience, she is known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach and advanced dermatology expertise as one of Arkansas’s few Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioners.

  • Certified Nurse Practitioner
Jane Doe
/ APRN

Jane Doe provides expert care in treating a variety of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. She specializes in performing thorough skin cancer screenings and focuses on patient-centered care.

What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening?

Many people aren’t sure what to expect during their first skin exam, but the process is simple, comfortable, and typically takes only 15–30 minutes.

If a spot requires further evaluation, your provider will explain every step before making recommendations.

What We Look For

New or Changing Moles

Changes in size, shape, color, or symmetry can be early warning signs of skin cancer.

Non-Healing Sores

Areas that bleed, crust, or fail to heal should always be evaluated.

Rough or Scaly Patches

Persistent rough spots may represent actinic keratoses or early skin cancer.

Unusual Growths or Spots

Any new bump, lesion, or pigmented area that looks different from the rest of your skin deserves professional evaluation.

Know the ABCDEs of Melanoma

While a professional skin cancer screening is the best way to evaluate your skin, it’s also important to watch for changes between appointments.

Use the ABCDE rule to identify moles that may need evaluation:

If you notice any of these changes, schedule a skin exam promptly.

When Should You Schedule a Skin Exam?

You should schedule a skin cancer screening if:

  • You’ve never had a professional skin exam.
  • It’s been more than a year since your last screening.
  • You notice a new or changing mole.
  • A spot is itching, bleeding, painful, or won’t heal.
  • Your primary care provider recommends evaluation.
  • You’ve previously been diagnosed with skin cancer.

 

Don’t wait until a spot becomes painful. Many skin cancers are discovered before they cause symptoms.

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center Skin Exam Skin Cancer Screening
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center Skin Exam Skin Cancer Screening

Preparing for Your Appointment

To help your provider perform the most complete full-body skin exam possible:

  • Remove nail polish if possible.
  • Avoid wearing heavy makeup.
  • Wear comfortable clothing that’s easy to remove.
  • Make a list of any spots you’re concerned about.
  • Bring information about previous skin cancers or biopsies.
  • Bring a current medication list.

 

These simple steps help ensure your provider can evaluate your skin thoroughly.

If We Find Something Suspicious

Finding a concerning spot during your skin cancer screening does not necessarily mean you have skin cancer.

Depending on what your provider sees, the next step may include:

  • Monitoring the lesion over time
  • Photographing the area for comparison
  • Performing a skin biopsy
  • Removing the lesion
  • Recommending Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery when appropriate

 

Because Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC offers comprehensive skin cancer care—including biopsies, pathology services, surgical treatment, and Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery—you can receive expert care from diagnosis through treatment within one practice.

Frequently asked questions

Q1: How often should I have a skin cancer screening?

Most adults benefit from an annual skin cancer screening, although patients with a history of skin cancer or increased risk may need more frequent exams.

No. A full-body skin exam is simply a visual examination of your skin. If a biopsy is recommended, your provider will discuss the procedure and numb the area beforehand.

Yes. Many skin cancers develop in areas patients rarely see, such as the scalp, back, ears, or backs of the legs. Routine screenings can detect these lesions before they become more advanced.

Most appointments take approximately 15–30 minutes, depending on your medical history and whether additional evaluation is needed.

No. Many lesions can simply be monitored over time. Your provider will recommend a biopsy only when it's medically appropriate.

Related Mohs Surgery Resources

From skin biopsies and surgical excisions to Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery, explore the treatment options available for skin cancer and what to expect at every stage of care.

Reduce your risk with practical sun protection strategies, early detection tips, and skin cancer prevention guidance.

Learn about rough, precancerous patches caused by sun damage and how early treatment can help prevent skin cancer.

Understand the most common type of skin cancer, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Learn how squamous cell carcinoma develops, the warning signs to watch for, and when treatment is recommended.

Explore the warning signs of melanoma, the importance of early detection, and available treatment options.

Why Patients Choose Us

Experienced Dermatology Providers

Expert care across medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

20,000+ Mohs Surgeries Performed

Extensive surgical experience supporting precise, effective treatment of skin cancer.

Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgery

A level of training not all surgeons have, ensuring advanced care.

Integrated Skin Cancer Surgery Centers

Dedicated facilities in Fayetteville and Rogers offering complete care under one roof.

Skin Cancer Screenings in Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville & Harrison

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC provides comprehensive skin cancer screenings and full-body skin exams for patients throughout Northwest Arkansas. Our experienced dermatology providers evaluate suspicious moles, changing lesions, and other concerning skin changes using advanced diagnostic techniques and years of clinical expertise.

If additional care is needed, we offer on-site skin biopsies, pathology services, advanced skin cancer treatment, and Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery, providing seamless care from diagnosis through treatment. Whether you’re due for your annual skin exam or have noticed a changing spot, our team is here to help you protect your skin and your health.

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center Fayetteville Arkansas

Our Locations

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC proudly serves patients throughout Northwest Arkansas with convenient locations including:

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC Fayetteville

Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC Rogers

Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC Bentonville 

Wednesday - Thursday 8 am – 5 pm

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC Harrison

Monday – Thursday, 8 am – 5 pm