Hearing the words “you have skin cancer” can feel overwhelming. Many patients immediately think surgery is the only option, especially if they have been diagnosed with basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma. While surgery is often an effective treatment, it is not the only approach for every patient.
At Trillium Creek Dermatology, we are pleased to offer GentleCure™, a non-surgical treatment option for certain nonmelanoma skin cancers. This advanced technology allows our providers to treat specific skin cancers without cutting or surgery, while maintaining a strong focus on comfort and cosmetic outcomes.
Understanding Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancer. They typically grow slowly and are often caused by long-term sun exposure. These cancers are usually highly treatable, especially when caught early, but treatment plans can vary based on the size, location, and depth of the cancer, as well as a patient’s overall health.
For many patients, surgery may still be the recommended option. However, for others, a non-surgical approach may be appropriate.
What Is GentleCure™?
GentleCure™ is a non-surgical treatment for certain basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers. It uses low-dose radiation combined with advanced imaging to precisely target cancer cells while protecting the surrounding healthy skin.
One of the key differences with GentleCure™ is that imaging is used throughout the course of treatment. This allows providers to see and measure the cancer beneath the skin and adjust treatment as needed over time. Because there is no cutting involved, GentleCure™ does not require stitches or reconstructive surgery.
How GentleCure™ Differs from Surgical Treatment
Surgical treatments, such as Mohs surgery, involve physically removing the cancer from the skin. While highly effective, surgery may not be ideal for every patient or every situation.
GentleCure™ offers a different approach. Treatment is performed in the dermatology office and is spread out over several short visits. Each session is brief, and patients are typically able to continue their normal daily activities during treatment.
This option may be especially helpful for cancers located in areas where preserving appearance is important, or for patients who prefer to avoid surgery for medical or personal reasons.
Who May Be a Good Candidate for GentleCure™?
GentleCure™ is not used for all types of skin cancer. It is designed for patients diagnosed with certain nonmelanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
A patient’s eligibility depends on several factors, such as:
- The type of skin cancer
- The size and depth of the lesion
- The location on the body
- Overall health and medical history
A consultation with a Trillium Creek Dermatology provider is the best way to determine whether GentleCure™ is an appropriate treatment option.
What Patients Often Ask About GentleCure™
Is GentleCure™ painful?
GentleCure™ is generally well tolerated by patients. Most people describe the treatment sessions as comfortable. Because the treatment is non-surgical, there is no cutting, stitches, or recovery time associated with incisions.
Will GentleCure™ affect my daily routine?
Treatment sessions are brief and are performed in the dermatology office. Most patients are able to continue their normal daily activities throughout the course of treatment without interruption.
What about scarring or cosmetic results?
Because GentleCure™ does not involve surgery, it avoids surgical scarring. Over time, the body replaces treated cancer cells with healthy tissue, which often results in a favorable cosmetic appearance, especially in visible areas of the skin.
Exploring Your Treatment Options
Every skin cancer diagnosis is unique, and treatment decisions should be made with careful guidance from a dermatology provider. GentleCure™ is one of several tools available to treat nonmelanoma skin cancer, and it may be an option for patients who are not ideal candidates for surgery or who prefer a non-surgical approach.
How Trillium Creek Dermatology Can Help
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or are concerned about a suspicious skin lesion, the team at Trillium Creek Dermatology is here to help. With locations in Medina, Brunswick, Strongsville, Wadsworth, and Wooster, our providers take the time to explain your diagnosis and review all appropriate treatment options.
We focus on helping patients understand their choices and feel confident in their care plan, whether that includes surgery, GentleCure™, or another form of treatment.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have questions about GentleCure™ or other skin cancer treatment options, schedule an appointment with Trillium Creek Dermatology. Our experienced providers are here to guide you through your diagnosis and help you choose the treatment path that is right for you.
