In the weeks and months after treatment for cancer, life and death concerns give way to concern for quality of life. At Cannon Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, we believe that post cancer skin care is an important part of that process.
We established our practice to provide men and women in Savannah, South Georgia, and the Low Country with access to the most advanced cosmetic treatments, as practiced by a caring team of certified professionals.
We specialize in post-operative skincare, scar revision treatment, and in addressing skin changes that can result from radiation oncology.
Side Effects of Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is just one of several approaches that doctors may use in treating cancer. While side effects may vary from patient to patient, it is often the case that healthy tissue will be harmed in the process of targeting cancerous cells. That’s why post cancer skin care is so important.
Most patients will experience some symptoms of damage to the skin near the wound: these include, dryness, itching, peeling, and redness. In most cases, these symptoms can be relieved with inexpensive topical treatments (we can help you select the best for your particular skin type) and often vanish without intervention.
In some cases, however, long-term side effects such as telangiectasia (spider veins) and other forms of hyperpigmentation may result. That’s where a visit to our office can help. Whether or not you are a patient of Dr. Cannon’s, our team can help alleviate any discomfort and establish a program of skincare going forward.
Scar Revision Treatment
Every patient is unique, and the healing process varies from woman to woman. Whether or not she elects for reconstructive surgery, the team at Cannon Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery can help breast cancer survivors to minimize scarring and alleviate discomfort resulting from scar tissue.
When scarring causes discomfort or in remediating scars of a past surgery, Dr. Cannon may recommend scar revision surgery, but in most cases relief can be achieved with conservative treatments such as microdermabrasion and/or photodynamic therapy.
