Melanoma Treatment
Early Diagnosis, Expert Care, Lifesaving Results
At Precision Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Prairie Village, KS, we specialize in the early diagnosis and expert treatment of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. Under the leadership of Dr. Tarantino—a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon—you’ll receive comprehensive, same-week care focused on early detection, precise treatment, and ongoing prevention.
Melanoma is dangerous, but when caught early, it’s highly treatable. That’s why our team offers same-week appointments for evaluations, biopsies, and treatment planning to protect your health without delay.
Visit us: 9009 Roe Ave, Prairie Village, KS 66207
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma develops when melanocytes, the cells that give your skin its pigment, begin to grow uncontrollably. It can occur anywhere on the body—even in places you don't normally expose to the sun. Left untreated, melanoma can spread rapidly to other organs, becoming life-threatening.
Signs of potential melanoma include:
- New moles or spots on the skin
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole
- Moles that itch, bleed, or become painful
- Lesions with irregular borders or multiple colors
Regular skin cancer screenings and mole checks are your first defense against melanoma. Early diagnosis greatly improves treatment success.
Our Approach to Melanoma Treatment
At Precision Dermatology, your melanoma care plan is personalized to your diagnosis and stage of cancer. We offer the full spectrum of evaluation and surgical treatment in one location, minimizing stress and ensuring cohesive, expert care.
Treatment options include:
Excisional Surgery
If melanoma is detected early, we perform a wide local excision to completely remove the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue.
Mohs Surgery for Melanoma
For melanomas located in high-risk or sensitive areas such as the face, ears, hands, or feet, Mohs surgery may be recommended. Dr. Tarantino has specialized fellowship training in advanced Mohs techniques specifically for melanoma, ensuring:
- Highest cure rates
- Tissue-sparing precision
- Optimal cosmetic outcomes
Reconstructive Surgery
After melanoma removal, especially on the face or neck, reconstructive surgery may be needed to restore form and function.
Ongoing Monitoring
Following treatment, you’ll be closely monitored with regular skin checks to detect any recurrence early and protect your overall skin health.
Why Choose Precision Dermatology for Melanoma Care?
- Fellowship-trained, board-certified Mohs surgeon
- Expertise in treating facial and high-risk melanomas
- Same-week availability for consultations and biopsies
- Full-service care from diagnosis to reconstruction
- Serving Prairie Village, Leawood, Overland Park, Mission Hills, and the Kansas City metro
- Compassionate, patient-centered approach
Explore more about our comprehensive skin cancer care on our skin cancer services page.
How Early Diagnosis Saves Lives
When melanoma is detected early, before it spreads to the lymph nodes or distant organs, the 5-year survival rate can be as high as 99%. Delaying diagnosis or treatment can allow the cancer to spread, making it much more difficult to treat.
That’s why we recommend annual skin checks and immediate evaluation of any suspicious lesions. Learn more about preventive care on our general dermatology page.
FAQs About Melanoma Treatment
Melanoma becomes more difficult to treat once it spreads beyond the skin to lymph nodes or distant organs (stage 3 or 4). However, treatments are available even at advanced stages to control the disease and extend life expectancy. Early detection offers the best outcomes.
Life expectancy depends heavily on the stage at diagnosis. For early-stage melanoma, survival rates are very high. For advanced melanoma, life expectancy varies based on the location of spread and response to treatment.
While stage 4 melanoma is challenging to cure completely, modern treatments—including immunotherapy and targeted therapy—can significantly extend life and improve quality of life.
Melanoma typically first spreads to the lymph nodes closest to the primary tumor. From there, it may spread to distant organs such as the lungs, liver, brain, or bones.
Schedule Your Melanoma Consultation Today
Early diagnosis is key to surviving melanoma. If you’ve noticed changes in your skin, don’t wait. Trust Precision Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center for expert, compassionate melanoma care—right here in Prairie Village, KS.
Schedule, email, or complete our contact form to get started. Same-week appointments available.
