fbpx
Dermatologist in Bend, Oregon conducting a skin cancer check on a patient

Don’t let skin cancer catch you off guard

Prioritize your health with life-saving early detection

Skin cancer can be sneaky, often hiding in plain sight as an unusual mole or a patch of dry, rough skin. The best defense against skin cancer is early detection through a thorough skin cancer screening with a board-certified dermatologist or dermatology-trained physician assistant.

Consider scheduling a skin cancer check at Juniper Dermatology in Bend, OR if you:

Have a history of sunburns or excessive sun exposure

Use or have used indoor tanning beds

Have a family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma

Notice changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole or spot

Have a large number of moles or atypical moles

Trusted By Hundreds

Dermatologist in Bend, Oregon discussing treatment with patients
Add Your Tooltip Text Here

Worried about a suspicious spot? Let's treat it and restore your peace of mind

GentleCure (IG-SRT)

Treats skin cancer with a 99.6% effectiveness, all without surgery. GentleCure (IG-SRT) targets only cancer cells, preserving your skin’s appearance with minimal scarring.

Excision

Removes skin cancer while preserving healthy skin. This surgical technique offers excellent cosmetic results for many types of skin cancer.

Cryotherapy

Quickly eliminates small skin cancers without surgery. This fast, nearly painless freezing technique is perfect for treating individual spots.

Topical Chemotherapy

Fights skin cancer without surgery using targeted medication. This gentle treatment is effective for superficial cancers while protecting healthy skin.

Mohs Surgery

Removes skin cancer with precision and 99% effectiveness. This specialized technique preserves the maximum amount of healthy tissue around the tumor.

Your Skin Cancer Screening at Juniper Dermatology

Head-to-toe examination

 

Your screening begins with a thorough skin examination by one of our skilled providers. We will gather information about your personal and family history of skin cancer and skin diseases, as well as any concerns or changes you’ve noticed in your skin. Using a dermatoscope to magnify and illuminate suspicious areas, we will carefully inspect your skin for any signs of cancerous or precancerous lesions.

In case we find a suspicious lesion, our team has access to advanced treatment options, including GentleCure™ (IG-SRT), a non-surgical method that effectively targets cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue.

Dermatologist consulting eczema patient in Bend, Oregon.
Dermatologist examining patient's skin in Bend, Oregon.

Follow-up care and education

If we identify any concerning lesions during your screening, we may perform a biopsy or recommend additional testing. We will also provide you with information on how to perform self-examination at home and protect your skin from harmful UV rays. We encourage annual skin cancer screenings to protect your health for years to come.

Meet Your Doctor

As a longtime Oregon resident, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Karla Pivik understands the challenges faced by those living in the Pacific Northwest, where melanoma rates are among the highest in the nation.

Dr. Pivik’s commitment to your well-being is rooted in the osteopathic philosophy, which recognizes the connection among all body systems and values the person as an individual. She knows the psychological impact of dermatologic conditions like skin cancer. With her dedication to early detection and patient education, Dr. Pivik is your trusted partner in protecting your skin health and reducing your risk of skin cancer.

Dr. Karla Pivik

Why Choose Juniper Dermatology for Your Skin Cancer Screening?

Prompt care

Most patients are seen within a few weeks, some even the same day. You won’t have to wait long for peace of mind.

Personalized sun protection plan

Our holistic approach to safeguarding your skin health incorporates sunscreen, protective clothing, and lifestyle recommendations.

Insurance accepted

Don’t let insurance concerns hold you back. We accept most major plans, so you can focus on early detection.

Proven expertise

Trust in our skilled providers’ 12+ years of experience in early skin cancer detection.

Cutting-edge treatment options

Access GentleCure here—an advanced skin cancer treatment offered at only 2 practices in Bend.

Skin Cancer Screening FAQ

How often should I get a skin cancer screening?

The frequency of screenings depends on your risk factors. Generally, we recommend annual screenings for most adults. However, if you have a history of skin cancer, many moles, or other risk factors, you may need more frequent mole checks. We’ll advise you on the best screening schedule for your needs.

Are skin cancer screenings painful?

Skin cancer screenings are typically painless. The exam involves a visual inspection of your skin. We may use a special magnifying tool called a dermatoscope to get a closer look. You shouldn’t experience any discomfort during the screening process.

How long does a skin cancer screening take?

A full-body skin cancer check can vary in time. If we identify any concerning areas, we may spend more time examining those spots or discussing next steps with you.

Will I need to undress for the skin cancer screening?

We encourage you to dress down to your comfort level. Remember, if we can’t see it, we can’t treat it. We will provide a gown for your comfort and privacy. Our staff is trained to conduct screenings with the utmost professionalism and respect for your modesty.

What happens if the dermatologist finds something suspicious during the screening?

If we identify a concerning spot, we may recommend a biopsy. This involves removing a small sample of skin for laboratory testing to determine if cancer is present. We’ll discuss the process with you and answer any questions you may have.

Can I do anything to prepare for my skin cancer screening?

Before your skin cancer check, perform a self-examination and note any new, changing, or unusual spots on your skin. Make a list of any questions or concerns you have. On the day of your screening, avoid wearing makeup, nail polish, or jewelry, as these can obstruct our view of your skin.

How soon will I get the results of my skin cancer screening?

You’ll receive the results of your screening immediately if no suspicious spots are found. If a biopsy is performed, the results typically take 1-2 weeks. We’ll contact you with the biopsy results and discuss any necessary follow-up care.

What should I do if I notice a suspicious spot on my skin between screenings?

If you notice any new, changing, or unusual spots on your skin between screenings, schedule an appointment with our team. Don’t wait for your next scheduled mole check. Early detection is crucial for the most effective treatment of skin cancer.

What if I have skin cancer?

If skin cancer is detected during your screening, our experienced team will guide you through the next steps and treatment options. Depending on the type and stage of skin cancer, we will construct a personalized treatment plan to best meet your unique needs.

We understand that a skin cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way. We’ll work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that considers your individual needs, preferences, and concerns.