Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that develops in the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin. While it is less common than basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma can grow and spread more quickly, making early detection and prompt treatment especially important.
At Benstock Dermatology, Dr. Elizabeth Benstock provides thorough evaluation and ongoing care for patients with suspicious or changing moles and those who have been diagnosed with melanoma. With more than two decades of experience and a special focus on skin cancer screening and prevention, Dr. Benstock helps patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and the steps they can take to protect their skin moving forward.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma develops when pigment-producing cells called melanocytes begin growing abnormally. It can develop within an existing mole or appear as a new spot on the skin.
Although melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, including areas that receive little sun exposure, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight and tanning beds is an important risk factor. A personal or family history of melanoma, numerous or atypical moles, fair skin, and a history of significant sun exposure can also increase risk.
What Are the Warning Signs of Melanoma?
Knowing what is normal for your skin can make it easier to recognize a concerning change. The ABCDE guide is a helpful way to evaluate moles:
A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
B – Border: The edges are irregular, blurred, or poorly defined.
C – Color: The spot contains multiple colors or has changed in color.
D – Diameter: The mole is growing or is larger than approximately 6 millimeters, although melanomas can also be smaller.
E – Evolving: The spot changes in size, shape, color, texture, or symptoms over time.
A mole that looks noticeably different from the others on your body, sometimes called an “ugly duckling,” should also be evaluated. New itching, tenderness, bleeding, or a sore that does not heal can be additional reasons to schedule a skin examination.
How Is Melanoma Diagnosed?
If Dr. Benstock identifies a suspicious lesion during a skin examination, a biopsy may be recommended. A small sample or the lesion itself is removed and sent to a pathology laboratory, where it is examined under a microscope.
If melanoma is identified, the pathology findings help determine important characteristics of the cancer and guide the next steps in care. Dr. Benstock will review the results with you, explain what they mean, and discuss the appropriate treatment plan.
How Is Melanoma Treated?
Treatment depends on factors such as the melanoma’s depth, location, and stage. Early melanomas are commonly treated surgically by removing the cancer along with an appropriate margin of surrounding skin.
More advanced melanoma may require additional evaluation or treatment from specialists in surgical oncology, medical oncology, or other areas of cancer care. When specialized treatment is needed, Benstock Dermatology can help coordinate care with an appropriate specialist.
Every diagnosis is different. Your treatment recommendations will be based on your individual pathology results and medical needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Follow-Up Care After Melanoma
A history of melanoma increases the importance of regular skin examinations. Follow-up visits allow your dermatologist to monitor previously treated areas and look for new or changing lesions.
Between appointments, patients are encouraged to become familiar with their skin and perform regular self-examinations. Sun-protective habits, including using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding tanning beds, are also important parts of long-term skin health.
Dr. Benstock will recommend a follow-up schedule based on your individual history and risk factors.
Why Choose Benstock Dermatology for Melanoma Care?
For nearly 25 years, Benstock Dermatology has cared for families throughout Delaware County and the surrounding communities. Dr. Elizabeth Benstock is a Yale-trained, board-certified dermatologist whose clinical focus includes skin cancer screening and prevention.
Patients receive thoughtful, expertise-driven care in a welcoming and judgment-free environment. Whether you have noticed a changing mole, need a full-body skin screening, or require continued dermatologic care following a melanoma diagnosis, our team is here to help you understand your skin and your next steps.
Schedule a Skin Evaluation
Changes in your skin are worth paying attention to, especially when a mole or spot looks different from the rest. If you have noticed a new or changing lesion or have concerns about melanoma, schedule an evaluation with Benstock Dermatology.
Call (610) 325-5553 to schedule an appointment at our Newtown Square or Media, PA location.