Advanced Skin Cancer Treatment in Worcester & Fall River, MA
From the gold standard of surgical precision to the latest in non-surgical technology — Commonwealth Dermatology, PLLC offers comprehensive, individualized skin cancer care close to home.
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Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with more than 5 million cases treated each year. Early detection and access to the right treatment can make all the difference in outcomes — and in quality of life during recovery.
At Commonwealth Dermatology, PLLC, our board-certified dermatologists are trained in the most advanced skin cancer treatment options available, giving patients in Worcester, Fall River, and surrounding Central Massachusetts communities access to expert care without traveling to a major medical center.
We offer two leading treatment approaches — Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) — so that every patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific cancer type, location, health, and lifestyle.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery — The Gold Standard in Skin Cancer Treatment
Mohs micrographic surgery is widely considered the most effective technique for treating the two most common types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
During the procedure, thin layers of cancer-containing skin are progressively removed and examined under a microscope in real time. This process continues layer by layer until only cancer-free tissue remains — allowing the surgeon to precisely target the tumor while preserving the maximum amount of healthy surrounding tissue.
Why Mohs Is Recommended:
- Highest cure rates of any skin cancer treatment — up to 99% for new cancers, up to 94% for recurrent cancers
- Tissue-sparing technique minimizes scarring and preserves function
- Ideal for cancers on the face, ears, hands, feet, and genitals — areas where tissue preservation is critical
- Same-day pathology means complete removal is confirmed before you leave the office Recommended for large, recurrent, or aggressive tumors
What to Expect:
Mohs surgery is performed in-office under local anesthesia. The procedure is done in stages — each stage takes approximately one hour — and most patients are finished in one day. Reconstruction of the wound, if needed, is typically performed the same day.
Learn More About Mohs Surgery →
Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) — Non-Surgical Skin Cancer Treatment
Commonwealth Dermatology is one of the only practices in the region to offer Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) — a clinically proven, non-surgical alternative for treating non- melanoma skin cancers.
SRT uses precisely targeted, low-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells at and just below the surface of the skin — without incisions, stitches, or surgery. It is an FDA-cleared treatment with cure rates comparable to surgery for eligible patients.
Who Is SRT Right For?
SRT may be an excellent option for patients who:
- Have basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma in early stages
- Are not ideal surgical candidates due to age, health conditions, or blood thinners
- Have tumors in locations where surgery may cause significant cosmetic or functional concerns
- Prefer to avoid surgery and recovery
- Want a comfortable, office-based treatment experience
What to Expect:
SRT is delivered in a series of short outpatient sessions — typically 2 to 3 times per week over several weeks. Each session takes only a few minutes. There is no anesthesia, no cutting, no stitches, and no wound care required. Most patients return to normal activities immediately after each treatment.
Cure Rate:
Studies show SRT achieves cure rates of approximately 95% or higher for eligible non-melanoma skin cancers — comparable to surgery for the right candidates.
Learn More About GentleCure / SRT →
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Mohs Surgery | Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Surgical | Non-surgical |
| Anesthesia | Local | None |
| Procedure Time | Hours (same day) | Minutes per session |
| Sessions | Typically 1 | Multiple sessions over several weeks |
| Downtime | Some wound care required | None |
| Cure Rate | Up to 99% | ~95% for eligible patients |
| Best For | Most skin cancers; facial/sensitive areas | Patients preferring non-surgical option |
| Scarring | Minimal (tissue-sparing) | Minimal to none |
Why Choose Commonwealth Dermatology for Skin Cancer Treatment?
- Board-certified dermatologists with specialized training in skin cancer surgery and radiation therapy
- Two treatment locations — Worcester and Fall River, MA
- One of the only practices in Central Massachusetts to offer both Mohs surgery and SRT under one roof
- Personalized treatment planning — no one-size-fits-all approach Comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up
- Welcoming, supportive environment for patients navigating a skin cancer diagnosis
Skin Cancers We Treat
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Melanoma
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma
- Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP)
- Actinic Keratosis (precancerous lesions)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
Your dermatologist will evaluate the type, size, location, and stage of your skin cancer, as well as your overall health and personal preferences, to recommend the most appropriate treatment. In some cases, both Mohs and SRT are valid options — and your provider will walk you through the pros and cons of each.
Is skin cancer treatment covered by insurance?
Mohs micrographic surgery and SRT are both medical procedures and are typically covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans when medically indicated. We recommend contacting your insurance provider prior to your appointment to confirm your specific coverage.
What happens if skin cancer is left untreated?
Untreated skin cancer can grow deeper into surrounding tissue, nerves, and bone — and in some cases spread to other parts of the body. Early treatment is strongly recommended for the best outcomes and lowest risk of recurrence.
Do I need a referral to be seen for skin cancer treatment?
In most cases, no referral is required. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and we will help coordinate your care.
What is the difference between Mohs surgery and a standard excision?
Standard excision removes the tumor with a margin of surrounding tissue and sends it to an outside lab for analysis — results typically take days. Mohs surgery processes each layer on-site in real time, allowing the surgeon to confirm complete removal before closing the wound. This results in higher cure rates and less healthy tissue removed.
Take the Next Step
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer — or have a suspicious spot you’d like evaluated — our team is here to help. Commonwealth Dermatology, PLLC offers advanced treatment options, expert providers, and compassionate care at two convenient locations in Worcester and Fall River, MA.