Clarus Dermatology offers expert skin cancer screenings at our New Brighton office, serving residents of New Brighton, MN and the surrounding north metro communities. Our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive full-body skin examinations designed to detect skin cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage — before it has the opportunity to spread or cause significant damage.
Why New Brighton Residents Need Regular Skin Exams
Skin cancer does not discriminate by geography. Even in Minnesota, where winters are long and sun exposure might seem limited, cumulative ultraviolet radiation from outdoor recreation, daily commutes, and reflective surfaces like snow and lake water adds up over a lifetime. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined — making routine screenings one of the most important preventive measures you can take.
At Clarus Dermatology in New Brighton, our dermatologists see patients every day with skin cancers they did not know they had. Many of these lesions were hidden in locations patients rarely examine on their own — the scalp, the back, the backs of the legs, or beneath the hairline. A professional screening catches what self-exams miss.
The Clarus Dermatology Screening Process
Our skin cancer screening appointments are designed to be thorough and efficient. During your visit at our New Brighton office, you can expect:
- A complete visual skin examination — your dermatologist will methodically inspect the entire surface of your skin, including commonly overlooked areas such as the ears, eyelids, between the toes, and under the nails
- Dermoscopic evaluation — using a dermatoscope, a specialized magnifying instrument, your provider can analyze the deeper structures of pigmented lesions and identify features that suggest malignancy
- Baseline documentation — for patients with numerous moles or a history of atypical nevi, we document and photograph lesions to monitor for changes over time
- Same-day biopsy capability — if a lesion appears suspicious, we can perform a biopsy during the same appointment, with results typically available within one to two weeks
Skin Cancers Detected Through Screening
Our surgical dermatology team screens for the full range of cutaneous malignancies:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) — accounting for roughly 80 percent of all skin cancers, BCC typically presents as a shiny, translucent bump or a non-healing sore on sun-exposed areas
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) — the second most common skin cancer, often appearing as a scaly red patch, open sore, or wart-like growth that may bleed or crust
- Melanoma — although less common than BCC and SCC, melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths and requires prompt identification and treatment
- Precancerous actinic keratoses — dry, rough, sandpaper-like patches caused by years of sun exposure that can transform into squamous cell carcinoma if untreated
Treatment Options at Our New Brighton Office
Clarus Dermatology provides seamless care from diagnosis through treatment. If your screening reveals a skin cancer, our team will discuss all appropriate treatment options with you. Dr. Neil A. Shah, a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, performs Mohs micrographic surgery at our practice — the most precise and effective technique available for common skin cancers, achieving cure rates up to 99 percent for primary basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.
For lesions that do not require Mohs surgery, treatment options include standard excision, cryotherapy (freezing), electrodesiccation and curettage, topical medications such as 5-fluorouracil or imiquimod, and photodynamic therapy. Your dermatologist will recommend the approach best suited to your specific diagnosis, location, and health profile.
Understanding Your Risk
While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase your risk. During your screening, your dermatologist will assess these risk factors and recommend an appropriate follow-up schedule:
- Fair skin that burns easily and rarely tans
- A history of significant sun exposure or outdoor work
- One or more blistering sunburns, particularly during childhood
- A personal or family history of melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancer
- A large number of moles or the presence of atypical (dysplastic) nevi
- History of indoor tanning bed use
- Immunosuppression from medication or medical conditions
Convenient Care Across Minnesota
Our New Brighton office is Clarus Dermatology’s flagship location, offering the full scope of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services. We also maintain offices in Minnetonka, Maple Grove, Hugo, Otsego, and Spicer — six locations providing expert dermatological care across the Twin Cities metro and central Minnesota.
To book your skin cancer screening at our New Brighton office, call (612) 213-2370 or schedule online using the appointment widget on this page.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Skin cancer risk assessment and screening recommendations are individualized based on your medical history and risk profile. Consult a board-certified dermatologist for personalized guidance.
