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Melanoma Skin Cancer and Treatment

Melanoma is serious but highly treatable when found early. Our team combines meticulous diagnosis, precise surgery, and thoughtful follow-up to remove cancer and safeguard your long-term skin health. At Aesthetic Dermatology, board-certified dermatologists guide you through each step with clear explanations and a calm, compassionate approach so you feel informed and supported.

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What is Melanoma Skin Cancer?

Melanoma arises from pigment-producing melanocytes and can grow or spread if untreated. It often appears as a changing mole-commonly flagged by the ABCDEs: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation (multiple or very dark colors), Diameter larger than 6 mm (though smaller lesions occur), and Evolving change. Another helpful cue is the “ugly duckling”-a spot that looks different from your other moles. Care begins with expert evaluation, dermoscopy to view sub-surface patterns, and a biopsy when indicated. Results define the stage and guide an individualized plan focused on cure and prevention.

How is Melanoma Skin Cancer Treated?

Assessment & Dermoscopy

We review your history and risks (family history, many/atypical moles, fair skin, sunburns, tanning beds, immunosuppression). A head-to-toe exam with dermoscopy evaluates patterns invisible to the naked eye.

Biopsy & Staging

Suspicious lesions undergo an excisional biopsy whenever feasible. Pathology reports include Breslow thickness and other features that inform margins and whether a sentinel lymph node biopsy is appropriate. If indicated we will coordinate with a facility to handle this step.

Definitive Excision

Most early melanomas are treated with in-office surgery using stage-appropriate margins. Complex closures prioritize function and appearance; we will discuss all options beforehand.

Adjunctive Therapy When Needed

For higher-risk disease, we coordinate with premier centers to guide us on imaging, medical oncology, and systemic therapies.

Prevention & Surveillance

We teach self-exams, schedule regular skin checks. Daily sun protection and lifestyle guidance reduce future risk.

Wound Care After Melanoma Treatment

Simple Incision Care: Keep dressings as directed; cleanse gently and apply ointment if advised. Mild soreness is expected.

Stitches & Activity: Sutures are typically removed in 7–14 days. Limit stretching or heavy exercise that strains the site until cleared.

Scar Optimization: We review silicone, massage, and sun protection to support a fine, flat scar.

Our goal is healing that’s comfortable, predictable, and cosmetically thoughtful-backed by clear, written instructions.

Why Choose Aesthetic Dermatology Associates for
Melanoma Care?

Precision and Expertise

Board-certified dermatologists use dermoscopy-guided assessment and evidence-based surgical margins, correlating clinical and pathology findings to minimize uncertainty and retreatment.

Comprehensive Support

From risk-reduction counseling to survivorship planning, we provide step-by-step guidance, rapid communication of results, and a clear follow-up schedule you can rely on.

What to Expect During and After Your Treatment

01. Pre-Treatment Preparation
Bring a list of changing moles you’ve noticed and any family history of melanoma. Avoid self-tanner and remove nail polish so nail units can be examined. Keep taking regular medicines unless we advise otherwise for a procedure.
02. Treatment Visit
We perform a careful dermoscopic exam and biopsy if needed. For confirmed melanoma, we review your pathology, discuss recommended excision margins (and sentinel node biopsy when appropriate).
03. Post-Treatment Follow-Up
You’ll receive written wound-care instructions, pathology updates, and a personalized surveillance plan: monthly self-exams, periodic full-body skin checks, and mole mapping if useful. We outline prevention strategies and exactly when to contact us.

Common Questions About Treating Melanoma Skin Cancer

Find answers to common questions about recognition, accuracy, comfort, and timelines.

How can I tell if a mole might be melanoma?
Look for the ABCDEs and the ugly duckling sign. Rapid change, itching, bleeding, or a new dark spot in adulthood deserves evaluation. When in doubt, come in-early checks save worry and support the best outcomes.
What increases my risk of melanoma?
Risk rises with intense sun exposure or blistering sunburns (especially in youth), tanning beds, fair skin, many or atypical moles, personal/family history of melanoma, and immune suppression. We review your profile and tailor screening accordingly.
How can I prevent melanoma?
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, wear protective clothing and hats, seek shade during peak UV, and avoid tanning beds. Perform monthly self-exams, photograph areas that are hard to remember, and keep scheduled professional skin checks.
What role does dermoscopy play?
Dermoscopy enhances visualization of pigment networks and structures beneath the surface, improving early detection and reducing unnecessary biopsies. It’s standard in our exams and pairs well with mole mapping for long-term accuracy.

Board-Certified Dermatologists

We Are Melanoma Treatment Specialists

Highly Skilled Dermatologists

We unite meticulous dermoscopy, precise surgical technique, and thoughtful communication-so you understand every decision and feel confident in your care from the first visit through long-term follow-up.

A Commitment to Patient Care

Your safety, comfort, and peace of mind come first. We set clear expectations, share results promptly, and stay accessible-so you always know what’s happening, why it matters, and what comes next.

Take the First Step Toward Effective Melanoma Care

If you’ve noticed a changing mole-or you’re due for a comprehensive skin check-schedule a visit at Aesthetic Dermatology. We’ll evaluate thoroughly, treat decisively, and partner with you on prevention and surveillance so you can move forward with confidence.

Visit Our Locations

Media, PA

Mon: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Tue: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wed: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Thu: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Fri: 7:30 am - 3:15 pm

Paoli, PA

Mon: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Tue: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wed: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thu: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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Book Your Appointment Today!

Choose the option that works best for you:

Prefer to speak with someone? Call or text us:

Media, PA Office - Call or Text (610) 566-7300

Paoli, PA Office - Call or Text (610) 647-4161

Want to book online now? Select a provider below:

Book with Dr. James Ko in Paoli

Book with Bridget Lolli, PA-C in Paoli

Note: Self-scheduling is currently available for Dr. Ko & Bridget Lolli. For all other providers, please call or text the office.