Superficial radiation therapy is a non-surgical outpatient procedure designed to treat basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers without cutting into the skin. This painless, surgery-free treatment is just as effective as the traditional Mohs surgery but comes with much better cosmetic results. There are minimal to no side effects with superficial radiation therapy, making it an exceptional option for patients who qualify.
How Does Superficial Radiation Therapy Work?
Superficial radiation therapy works by targeting small amounts of energy just below the skin’s surface, focusing only on the affected tissue. Unlike Mohs surgery, which cuts deep into the skin to remove cancerous tissue and the surrounding areas, superficial radiation therapy works without:
- Cutting
- Surgical scarring
- Need of blood thinners or antibiotics
- Limits to daily activities
Most patients who choose superficial radiation therapy schedule a series of short, pain-free appointments over a series of weeks. Superficial radiation therapy does take longer than surgery, but there are no limits to daily activities, and patients will not need to follow up with cosmetic surgeons to address scarring. Once the treatment schedule is completed, patients will continue regular screenings to ensure they are cancer free.
Are There Side Effects of Superficial Radiation Therapy?
The side effects of superficial radiation therapy are very limited. Some patients report mild skin dryness or redness after treatment sessions, but most are able to go back to work immediately with no disruption.
The most positive side effect of superficial radiation therapy is its superior cosmetic results. Because many skin cancers develop on highly visible areas of the body such as the face, head, and neck, many patients are concerned over how skin cancer surgery will look afterward. Mohs surgery leaves deep scarring which can be painful and affect appearance, but superficial radiation therapy leaves behind only healthy, beautiful skin.
Avoid the Side Effects of Skin Cancer Surgery with IG-SRT
Image-Guided Superficial Radiotherapy (Image-Guided SRT) is the new gold standard for skin cancer treatment without surgery. This safe, effective technology eliminates the painful side effects of traditional skin cancer treatments while still achieving superior results. To learn whether Image-Guided SRT is right for you, call 855-936-4411 to speak with one of our skin cancer specialists or explore our FAQ page.
