Comprehensive
Care for Skin Cancer

Led by a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon

Comprehensive Care for Skin Cancer

Led by a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon

About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the skin cells, often due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds, leading to the abnormal growth of skin cells. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in America, affecting millions of individuals each year. Florida has one of the highest incidences of skin cancer in the United States, making awareness and prevention crucial for residents. This disease often develops on sun-exposed skin, which is why protecting yourself from harmful UV rays is essential.

Your skin is the body’s largest organ and serves as the first line of defense against environmental threats. Because it plays such a vital role in overall health, skin cancer is more than just a surface condition. It can invade deeper tissues, spread to other organs, and become life-threatening if not treated early. Take a proactive step against skin cancer and schedule your next skin check today.

Treating Skin Cancer

At Bliss Dermatology + Wellness, we understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for improving prognosis. Our surgical team is led by Dr. Michelle Pennie, a double board-certified dermatologist who is fellowship-trained in Mohs surgery. With thousands of successful Mohs procedures under her belt, Dr. Pennie is highly sought after for her exceptional reconstructive outcomes. Every suture is placed with care, ensuring the best possible results for our patients.

Conditions We Treat

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Melanoma

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Services We Offer

Skin Cancer Screening

Skin Cancer Treatments

Mohs Surgery

Slow Mohs Surgery

Surgical Excision

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

Several factors can elevate your risk of developing skin cancer, including a family history of the disease, use of tanning beds, a history of sunburns, and the presence of certain skin types or conditions. Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin color. Regular skin checks and being aware of any changes in your skin are vital for early detection and effective treatment. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours are simple but powerful skin cancer prevention strategies.

Reduce Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in the fight against skin cancer. By prioritizing your skin health, familiarizing yourself with the ABCDEs of melanoma, scheduling regular full-body skin exams, and being proactive about regular visits with a dermatologist, you can take significant steps toward a healthier future. Schedule your next skin cancer screening now and take a proactive step towards long-term skin health.

Explore our blog for the latest in skin cancer prevention and care.

Healthy Skin Month: Tips for Healthy Skin

We place great importance on Healthy Skin Month because it raises awareness of skin health, skin cancer prevention, and early detection of skin conditions. We want to encourage and educate our patients on adaptation of good skin care habits, recognizing early stages of skin issues, and understanding the importance of

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Preventing Skin Cancer for Our Coastal Community

During Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month, Bliss Dermatology + Wellness is motivating the community to a Skin Check Challenge to fight the growing threat of skin cancer. Throughout the month of May, all are encouraged to schedule their annual skin check with one of Bliss’s board-certified dermatology providers in

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A woman receives a skin cancer screening during Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Skin Cancer Prevention and Awareness

Each May, we observe Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of skin cancer and the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States—but it’s also one of the

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The Leading Mohs Surgery Provider in Florida’s Gulf Coast

Frequently Asked Questions

What does skin cancer look like?

Skin cancer can appear in many forms. Look for new growths, spots that change in size, shape, or color, sores that don’t heal, or moles that become irregular. Basal cell carcinomas often look like pearly bumps or pink patches. Squamous cell carcinomas may appear as scaly red patches or wart-like growths. Melanomas often have irregular borders, multiple colors, or asymmetric shapes. When in doubt, have any suspicious spot checked.

What causes skin cancer?

The primary cause of skin cancer is UV radiation exposure from the sun and tanning beds. UV rays damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to abnormal cell growth. Risk factors include a history of sunburns, fair skin, family history of skin cancer, many moles, weakened immune system, and previous skin cancer. Protecting your skin with sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure can significantly reduce your risk.

How is skin cancer treated?

Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Options include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, cryotherapy, and radiation therapy. Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate for many skin cancers while preserving the most healthy tissue. A dermatologist will recommend the best treatment based on your specific diagnosis.

What is Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery is a precise surgical technique for removing skin cancer with the highest cure rates and maximum preservation of healthy tissue. The dermatologic surgeon removes thin layers of cancerous tissue one at a time, examining each layer under a microscope immediately during the procedure. This continues until no cancer cells remain, ensuring complete removal while sparing as much healthy skin as possible.

How long does Mohs surgery take?

Mohs surgery typically takes 2-4 hours, though complex cases may take longer. The procedure is performed in stages. Each layer removal takes about 15-30 minutes, but processing and examining the tissue under the microscope takes additional time. Most patients have 1-3 stages, but the exact duration depends on the extent of the cancer.

Is Mohs surgery used for melanoma?

Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard of care for treating melanoma. It’s particularly valuable for melanomas in cosmetically sensitive areas like the face, hands, and feet, where its precision allows for complete cancer removal while preserving maximum healthy tissue. The technique’s ability to examine 100% of the surgical margins ensures the highest cure rates. Your dermatologic surgeon will determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on the melanoma type, location, and stage.

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