Melanoma Detection
and Treatment in Chattanooga
Early detection saves lives. Trusted dermatology care since 1973.
Established 1973 • 3 locations • 5 MDs + 6 NPs + 2 PAs • BBB A+ • Board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology.
Melanoma is one of the most serious forms of skin cancer, but it is also one of the most treatable when caught early. The five-year survival rate for melanoma detected at its earliest stage is above 99 percent. That number drops sharply once the cancer spreads. At Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic, our board-certified dermatologists are trained to spot melanoma at its earliest, most treatable stages. If you have a mole that looks different, has changed recently, or just feels off, schedule a visit.
ACT NOW
Know the Signs:
The ABCDE Rule
The ABCDE rule is a simple checklist that helps you recognize the warning signs of melanoma. If a mole shows any of these features, it deserves a closer look from a dermatologist.
A
Asymmetry. One half of the mole does not match the other.
B
Border. Edges are irregular, ragged, blurred, or notched.
C
Color. The mole has more than one color, or the color is uneven.
D
Diameter. The mole is larger than 6 millimeters, about the size of a pencil eraser. Smaller melanomas exist, so size is not the only signal.
E
Evolving. The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms (itching, bleeding, crusting).
If you notice any of these signs, call us. Early evaluation is the single most important factor in melanoma outcomes.
What to Expect
at Your Appointment
Full-body skin exam
Your dermatologist will check your skin from head to toe, including hard-to-see areas. The exam itself is painless and takes about 15 minutes.
Biopsy if needed
If a spot looks suspicious, a small biopsy can usually be performed during the same visit. Results typically come back within a week.
Personalized treatment plan
If skin cancer is confirmed, your provider will walk you through your options and help you choose the right next step. Most early-stage skin cancers are removed in our office.
EXPERT CARE
Skin Cancer Treatment Options
The right treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Common approaches include surgical excision, electrodesiccation and curettage, cryotherapy, topical treatments, and Mohs micrographic surgery for high-risk locations like the face and hands.
Mohs micrographic surgery offers the highest cure rate available for most skin cancers, above 99 percent for primary basal and squamous cell carcinomas. We perform Mohs at our Chattanooga and Cleveland offices.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MOHS SURGERY
Frequently asked Questions
Watch for changes in size, shape, color, or texture. Spots that bleed, itch, or do not heal also deserve attention. The safest approach is to have anything you are unsure about evaluated by a dermatologist.
If you have a concerning spot, call us. We hold same-week appointment slots specifically for skin cancer concerns at all three of our locations.
Yes. Most skin cancer treatments, including biopsies, excisions, and Mohs surgery (at our Chattanooga and Cleveland offices), are performed in our office under local anesthesia. You go home the same day.
Most insurance plans cover medically necessary skin exams. Costs vary by plan. Call your nearest office and we can help estimate your out-of-pocket cost based on your insurance.
Worried About a Spot?
Tell Us About It.
We will get back to you as soon as possible. Most spots are nothing serious, but it is always worth checking.