As a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, I often see patients who come in for aesthetic concerns—scars, moles, skin growths—without realizing that some of these changes could be early signs of skin cancer. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and I believe this is the right time to talk about how to recognize the warning signs and take simple steps to protect your skin, not just during summer, but all year long.
Why Skin Cancer Deserves Your Attention
Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide—and it’s also one of the most preventable. The three main types include:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – slow-growing and usually found on sun-exposed areas like the face and neck.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – more aggressive, often appearing as scaly red patches or open sores.
- Melanoma – the most dangerous form, which can spread quickly and become life-threatening if not detected early.
Unfortunately, in India, skin cancer is often underdiagnosed or detected late, especially in individuals with medium to darker skin tones. But make no mistake—skin cancer does not discriminate based on skin color.
Spot the Signs Early: Use the ABCDE Rule
When evaluating a mole or lesion, I recommend using the ABCDE rule:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
- B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or scalloped edges
- C – Color: Multiple shades or unusual colors
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, color, or texture
If you notice any of these changes—or a sore that doesn’t heal—it’s time to get it examined.
Sun Damage Can Be Silent
Even if you’re not sunbathing or living in a sunny climate year-round, UV damage accumulates over time. Think of:
- Driving or riding a two-wheeler without sunscreen
- Outdoor workouts without protective clothing
- Beach holidays without reapplying SPF
UV rays penetrate the skin and cause changes at the cellular level that may not be visible for years.
Protecting Your Skin: What I Recommend
Here’s what I personally advise my patients for year-round sun protection:
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every morning, even on cloudy days. Reapply every 2–3 hours if outdoors.
- Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses when stepping out.
- Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Avoid tanning beds—they emit UV radiation that increases your cancer risk.
- Do a monthly self-exam and an annual full-body skin check with a qualified specialist.
Scar, Mole, or Something More?
As someone who performs reconstructive surgery following skin cancer excision, I know how important early detection is—not just to save your skin but to minimize scarring and preserve function. Many skin lesions can be removed with minimal downtime and excellent cosmetic results, especially when addressed early.
If you’ve noticed a new mole, a changing spot, or a sore that won’t heal, don’t ignore it. Whether it’s benign or something that needs intervention, early evaluation is the key to better outcomes.
About Dr. Karan Shetty
Dr. Karan Shetty is a board-certified plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgeon based in Bangalore. With training in Germany, Japan, and Spain, he brings over 10 years of clinical experience in procedures like rhinoplasty, gynecomastia, liposuction, breast aesthetics, and hair restoration. He currently serves as Chief Consultant at Tara Healthcare and is a member of KAPRAS, ISAPS, and IAAPS.
Contact Tara Healthcare
Phone: +91 77607 00133
Email: info@drkaranshetty.com
Address: No. 681, Ground Floor, 10th A Main Road, 4th Block Jayanagar, Bengaluru 560011