Skin Oncology

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Fortunately, when diagnosed early, most forms of skin cancer can be treated with a good prognosis.

Dermatologists at the Israel Englander Department of Dermatology are highly specialized in diagnosing and treating all forms of skin cancer, as well as addressing the unique dermatological needs of patients with other types of cancer.

Expert preventative care: We encourage patients to have regular full-body exams to detect any growths as early as possible, as well as establish a baseline and familiarity with any skin markings. Our general dermatologists are well-trained in conducting these exams, which can be a part of any routine visit. Any concerns will be referred to our dermatologic oncology team.

Expert diagnosis: Our board-certified general dermatologists are highly experienced in detecting and diagnosing skin cancer, as well as pinpointing any areas of concern that warrant additional testing or long-term evaluation.

Our dermatopathologists expertly diagnose all types of skin cancers by carefully evaluating cells under the microscope. These highly specialized and experienced physicians determine the specific type of skin cancer, which helps patients receive the most effective treatment and best possible care.

At Weill Cornell Medicine, patients who receive a skin cancer diagnosis go on to receive treatment from our dermatologic oncology team.  

Conditions We Treat

Our highly trained and experienced dermatologists specialize in treating:

● Precancers
● Basal cell carcinoma
● Melanoma
● Squamous cell carcinoma
● Rare skin cancers
● High-risk skin cancer
● Patients at high risk for developing skin cancer (due to immunosuppressants or other factors)

We also provide treatments for the effects on the skin due to any type of cancer:

● Skin, hair, and nail changes due to cancer treatment
● Radiation dermatitis
● Skin infections or effects due to cancer treatment

Treatments: We offer the latest treatments based on current research to address skin cancers, as well as manage complications due to cancer treatment.

Each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific condition and needs. Treatment options include:

● Excisional Surgery
● Mohs surgery
● Photodynamic therapy for precancers or superficial skin cancers
● Laser treatment for precancers
● Oral and topical medications

How Does Weill Cornell Medicine Stand Out for Skin Cancer Treatment?

Multidisciplinary care: Our physicians are all board-certified dermatologists, and our dermatologic oncologists have additional fellowship training in Mohs surgery and dermatologic oncology. Throughout treatment, our dermatologists work closely with other specialists in the Weill Cornell network, including oncologists, head and neck surgeons, and radiologists, to ensure our patients receive comprehensive, multidisciplinary — and effective — care.

High-risk oncology conditions receive comprehensive care from all specialties, ensuring the best possible care.

Advanced technology and therapies: Our patients have access to the cutting-edge research being conducted here concerning skin cancer and general oncology. Our physicians use the latest technology, equipment, and treatment therapies — all based on the latest data and research.

Comprehensive, personalized patient experience: Our Department understands that a skin cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and can be challenging for patients and their loved ones. We strive to make the experience seamless — from the initial diagnosis to treatment to follow up.

Expert physicians: Our board-certified dermatologists are leaders in the field. They have the extensive training needed to correctly diagnose skin cancer, as well as treat it effectively. In addition to their medical training at some of the nation’s best hospitals and universities, they also see a high volume of diverse patients with a wide variety of cases.