When faced with a skin cancer diagnosis, many patients assume that surgery is the only solution. While surgical removal is highly effective, it’s not always the best option for everyone. Thankfully, medical advances have introduced a non-invasive treatment called Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IGSRT). At Laplace Dermatology Clinic, our specialists provide this cutting-edge therapy as an alternative for certain patients, offering effective results without the need for surgery.
Understanding IGSRT
IGSRT is a modern approach that uses targeted, low-dose radiation to treat non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Unlike older radiation treatments, this method incorporates advanced imaging to guide the therapy with pinpoint accuracy. The result is a treatment that directly targets cancerous lesions while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
This makes IGSRT a strong option for patients seeking non-invasive care with excellent cosmetic outcomes. Because there are no incisions or stitches, the risk of scarring is significantly reduced, which is especially beneficial for visible areas such as the face, scalp, or neck.
Who Benefits From IGSRT?
Not every patient is an ideal candidate for surgery, which is why IGSRT is such an important alternative. Some common reasons patients may benefit include:
- Medical conditions that make surgery risky.
- Older age or frailty, where healing may be slower.
- Cosmetic concerns, particularly for lesions on the nose, eyelids, or lips.
- Multiple skin cancers, where repeated surgeries could leave significant scarring.
At Laplace Dermatology Clinic, we carefully evaluate each case to determine whether IGSRT is the right fit, ensuring patients receive the safest and most effective treatment option available.
How IGSRT Works
The process begins with imaging technology that allows our dermatologists to map out the exact size and depth of the skin cancer lesion. This ensures the radiation is delivered only where it’s needed. Over a series of short, painless sessions, low doses of radiation therapy are applied directly to the site.
Most patients require several treatments over the course of a few weeks. However, each session is brief and involves no downtime, allowing patients to continue with their daily activities. The targeted approach also minimizes side effects such as redness or mild irritation, which usually resolve quickly.
Comparing IGSRT to Surgery
Traditional skin cancer surgery—such as Mohs surgery—remains a gold standard for certain cases. However, surgery can involve stitches, scarring, and longer recovery times. For patients who are not ideal surgical candidates, IGSRT provides a non-invasive, highly effective alternative.
Studies have shown that IGSRT offers cure rates comparable to surgical methods for many forms of non-melanoma skin cancer. The biggest advantage is its cosmetic outcome: with no cutting, stitching, or grafting, skin often heals more smoothly and naturally.
What to Expect During Treatment
Patients undergoing IGSRT at Laplace Dermatology Clinic can expect:
- A personalized consultation to determine candidacy.
- Imaging to assess the depth and extent of the lesion.
- Painless treatment sessions lasting only a few minutes.
- Minimal to no disruption in daily routines.
Because the therapy is localized, patients generally report little to no discomfort during or after treatment. The skin may appear slightly pink—similar to a mild sunburn—but this resolves as healing progresses.
Why Choose Laplace Dermatology Clinic?
Choosing where to receive skin cancer treatment is just as important as the treatment itself. At Laplace Dermatology Clinic, our board-certified dermatologists combine expertise with advanced technology to deliver safe and effective care. We specialize in both surgical and non-surgical options, ensuring patients receive the treatment that best fits their individual needs and health goals.
Our compassionate approach means we prioritize both your health outcomes and your cosmetic results, giving you confidence that your skin is being treated with the highest standard of care.
A Modern Solution for Skin Cancer Care
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or are exploring alternatives to surgery, IGSRT may be the right option for you. With its non-invasive nature, high effectiveness, and excellent cosmetic outcomes, this therapy is helping countless patients achieve peace of mind while avoiding the challenges of traditional surgery.
Take the next step in your care—contact Laplace Dermatology Clinic today to schedule a consultation and learn whether IGSRT is the right treatment for your skin health.
