Tanning: An Epidemic
Skin cancer is a growing health concern in the United States, and it is often the result of unprotected skin exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, also known as UVA and UVB rays. In places like Newport Beach, California, where there is a lower chance of cloud cover and a temperate climate that is ideal for outdoor activities, people may be more susceptible to sun damage. In addition to the overexposure of sun, it has also become fashionable to sport sun-kissed skin, so the lack of sunscreen may be intentional.
Tan skin has been an American trend since Coco Chanel sported a golden glow following a vacation to the South of Franceand fashionistas took notice. This look was first noticed during the 1920s and was thought to have grown in popularity with the advent of colored television. Americans were more exposed to trends and the color palettes associated with them. When people cannot achieve a bronzed look by way of sunlight, they have alternatives available. Some means are low-risk options, such as self-tanner or spray tan applications, but others are just as dangerous, if not more so, than natural sunlight. Artificial sunlight in the form of tanning beds has become so popular, they are available for at-home use and in gyms and spas. Clients do not typically wear sun protection while tanning in these beds, and the rays are highly concentrated.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer presents a two-fold issue with those who receive a diagnosis. First and foremost, patients worry about the prognosis of their health. Skin cancer can be very aggressive and even deadly when it penetrates the skin and spreads to other tissues of the body. The second matter is cosmetic scarring or disfigurement that may result from the life-saving cancer removal surgery.
The goal for any skin cancer patient is to ensure their health is preserved as a result of the surgery. The cancerous tissues must be removed entirely so healthy tissue remains unaffected by the disease. As a precaution, it may be necessary to surgically excise tissue surrounding the growth. This can lead to severe pitting of the skin and even the loss of structural tissues.
Facial plastic surgeon Dr. Rami K. Batniji has extensive knowledge of facial anatomy. He understands what measures need to be taken to take to promote safety of the remaining tissues while correcting the altered portion of the face.
If you have a growth on your head, face, or neck that requires surgical removal, schedule an appointment to see Dr. Batniji. He can be reached at his Newport Beach office at 949-650-8882 or through his Patient Contact Form. In addition to removing the growth and performing surgical reconstruction, Dr. Batniji can also repair the work of previous surgeons.