Melanoma Treatment in Fresno, CA
Facing melanoma can be a daunting journey, but at Minarets Medical Group, we show the path to recovery with advanced melanoma treatment. Our dedicated team uses the latest dermatological innovations and offers personalized care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of skin cancer. We believe in patient-centered care, where treatments are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Our main goal is to provide the best support, expertise, and therapies to help people overcome melanoma.
WHAT IS MELANOMA?
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, known for its ability to spread rapidly to other parts of the body. This disease originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color). Melanoma can develop on any skin surface, but it usually appears in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the back, legs, arms, and face. Regular skin checks are vital for early detection.
CAUSES OF MELANOMA
The primary cause of melanoma is ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which may come from the sun or artificial sources, such as tanning beds Several factors can increase the risk of developing this disease, including:
- Excessive UV exposure
- A history of sunburns
- Having a fair complexion
- A family history of melanoma
- The presence of skin moles (round or oval growth that ranges in color from pink to brown and black)
Patients must understand these risks and take all preventative measures against melanoma. Regular dermatological check-ups help to identify the first signs and address them at the root.
PROGRESSION OF MELANOMA SKIN CANCER
The main danger of this disease is that it can evolve into life-threatening forms. There are 5 main stages, including:
EARLY DETECTION
IS KEY
The early stages of this disease can be effectively treated, often with surgical removal of melanoma cells. Regular self-examinations and professional skin evaluations are essential for identifying skin cancer at its onset. We look for changes in the size, shape, or color of moles, as well as the development of new growth.
Minarets Medical Group has the expertise and technology to diagnose melanoma and kill cancer cells. Our patients can rest assured that they will receive the best possible results. A recent clinical trial tested new immunotherapy drugs that demonstrated 45-55% survival rates (for 6 years) for stage IV melanoma. This means that there is always a way to treat this condition, but it is much better to detect it early and avoid any risks.
MELANOMA TREATMENT PROCEDURE
We understand that a melanoma diagnosis can be overwhelming. That is why our dedicated team is committed to providing a comprehensive cancer treatment that offers the best possible outcomes for our patients. Here is an overview of the procedure:
Personalized Treatment Planning
Upon confirming a melanoma diagnosis, our first step is to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific condition. The plan is based on several factors, including the stage of cancer, its location, overall health, and personal preferences. Our multidisciplinary team of dermatologists, oncologists, and surgeons collaborates closely to recommend the most effective options available.
Surgical Options
Upon confirming a melanoma diagFor many patients, surgery is the primary treatment for melanoma. The type of operation depends on the tumor’s thickness and stage:
- Excisional Surgery: The most common treatment for early-stage melanomas. It involves removing the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated.
- Mohs Surgery: This treatment is designed for melanomas located in cosmetically sensitive areas. Mohs surgery allows for the removal of cancerous cells layer by layer, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: If there is a concern that the primary tumor has spread, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed during surgery to check for cancer cells in the lymph node
nosis, our first step is to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific condition. The plan is based on several factors, including the stage of cancer, its location, overall health, and personal preferences. Our multidisciplinary team of dermatologists, oncologists, and surgeons collaborates closely to recommend the most effective options available.
Advanced Treatment Options
For advanced melanoma or cases where surgery is not an option, we offer cutting-edge treatments, including:
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells more effectively.
- Targeted Therapy: Blocks specific genetic mutations in melanomas and stops the tumor from growing.
- Radiation Therapy: Used in certain cases to destroy cancer cells or relieve symptoms of advanced melanoma.
Each of these advanced therapies may also be used as adjuvant therapy, which means that it can be added after the primary surgical treatment to reduce the risk of cancer coming back
RECOVERY
AFTER MELANOMA
TREATMENT
Recovery and follow-up care are crucial aspects of the treatment process. Side effects like fatigue, pain, and emotional distress may persist for some time. With the support of loved ones, adequate rest and nutrition, and following doctor’s recommendations, patients can heal both physically and emotionally. It is important to take things slowly and celebrate small milestones.
Our team provides comprehensive support, including wound care instructions, recommendations for managing side effects, and regular follow-up appointments to monitor for signs of recurrence. We also offer resources for coping with the emotional aspects of a cancer diagnosis and treatment.
BENEFITS OF MELANOMA TREATMENT
Patients can gain a wide range of benefits from our treatment. Using the latest technology and methods, we can:
Kill Cancer Cells
Melanoma treatment destroys cancerous cells in the body. By killing them, we can eliminate the disease and reduce the likelihood of tumors returning in the future.
Prevent Spread
We aim to prevent the cancer from metastasizing and spreading to other areas of the skin and body. If left untreated, it can become an aggressive disease that expands quickly. Undergoing treatment stops this process, so cancer does not advance to later stages.
Extend Life Expectancy
Receiving timely and effective melanoma treatment leads to better outcomes and extends patient life expectancy. Skin cancer has high cure rates when treated before reaching advanced forms. Undergoing surgery or immunotherapy can successfully treat melanoma and allow patients to enjoy longer lives.
CANDIDATES FOR MELANOMA TREATMENT
There are many groups of candidates who may benefit from our surgery and therapy:
- Patients with early-stage melanoma
- People with regional spread into nearby lymph nodes
- Individuals with distant metastatic disease
- People with melanomas that have returned after
initial treatment
- Patients with melanomas that cannot be removed
surgically
The specific treatment approach depends on the stage of melanoma and other individual factors. Discussing options with our specialists can help patients understand the latest therapies available. Regular monitoring is also essential, as catching this disease early makes surgery and other interventions much more effective.
COST OF MELANOMA TREATMENT
In Fresno, CA, the cost of melanoma treatment ranges from $1,500 to $100,000 and more. It varies widely due to several factors, such as the stage of the cancer, the types of procedures required, and the doctor’s credentials. While providing exact figures without a personalized consultation is challenging, we can offer some insights into the potential expenses for specific treatments.
Approximate Prices
- Surgical Excision:The cost of surgical excision of melanoma ranges from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the complexity of the operation and location.
- Mohs Surgery: The price of treating skin cancer with Mohs surgery, particularly those in cosmetically sensitive areas, starts at $2,000 and may reach $5,000 or more.
- Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy: These treatments, often used for advanced melanoma, can be significantly more expensive. Depending on the specific drugs and duration of therapy, they range from $10,000 to over $100,000 for a full course.
- Radiation Therapy: The cost of radiation therapy also varies, from $10,000 to $50,000, based on the number of sessions required.
We encourage patients to contact us directly for a more accurate price of melanoma treatment. Our team is here to ensure that each person has access to the care they need.
MINARETS MEDICAL GROUP IS THE TOP DESTINATION FOR MELANOMA TREATMENT
Selecting the right medical team for melanoma treatment is a critical decision that impacts a patient’s journey to recovery. Minarets Medical Group stands out as a leading choice for several compelling reasons. Our commitment to providing exceptional care, advanced treatment options, and a supportive environment ensures that each individual receives the best possible outcomes. Here is why Minarets Medical Group is the preferred choice for melanoma treatment:
Expertise and Experience
Our team consists of highly trained dermatologists and oncologists who specialize in skin cancers, including melanoma. Our patients receive care from professionals who understand the complexities of this condition.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Treatments
Our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for diagnosing, treating, and monitoring melanoma. From advanced imaging techniques to the latest surgical and non-surgical treatments, we offer access to the best tools in the fight against melanoma. We are actively involved in dermatological research, giving our patients access to new medications and therapies through clinical trials. This commitment to innovation means that people receive the highest level of care that is available today.
Community Reputation and Trust
Minarets Medical Group has built a strong reputation in Fresno and the surrounding communities as a trusted provider of dermatological care. Our commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction has made us a preferred choice for melanoma treatment.
Personalized Treatment Plans
We believe that each medical journey is unique. Therefore, our team takes the time to understand people’s needs, preferences, and health backgrounds to create tailored treatment plans. We consider all aspects of the patient’s well-being, including emotional and psychological support, to ensure a holistic approach to their recovery.
Compassionate, Patient-Centered Treatment
We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Our staff is dedicated to providing a warm, welcoming environment where patients feel supported every step of the way. We are always accessible to answer questions, discuss concerns, and provide clear, compassionate guidance.
