What to Expect from Superficial Radiation

Are you facing a skin cancer diagnosis? It can be a lot to take in, but thanks to modern medical advancements, you may not have to go under the knife.

You can find expert guidance and support with Ruben Moreno, MD, and the Florida Dermatology Associates team. We provide thorough skin cancer screening and a range of advanced treatments, including superficial radiation therapy (SRT).

This non-invasive approach offers precise removal of certain skin cancers with minimal scarring and fewer side effects. Read on to learn how it works and what to expect from SRT.

Understanding superficial radiation therapy (SRT)

Unlike other forms of radiation therapy designed for deeper conditions, SRT uses carefully calibrated, low-energy X-rays to target cancer cells located on the skin’s surface. 

During the procedure, a specialized device delivers a concentrated dose of radiation directly to the affected area, effectively destroying cancer cells — but without damaging healthy tissues and organs. 

It’s a non-surgical, painless procedure that only takes a few minutes to complete in our office.

Is SRT right for you?

SRT addresses the two most common types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). BCC alone accounts for approximately 3.6 million skin cancer diagnoses a year, with SCC a close second at 1.8 million per year.

Because SRT delivers radiation from outside the body, we can remove lesions without the need for stitches, surgical scars, or the post-treatment wound care often associated with surgical excisions. This benefit makes SRT an excellent choice for areas such as the face, neck, and ears, where achieving a clear, scar-free cosmetic outcome is a priority. 

SRT may also be an option for those who don’t want surgery or who may not be suitable candidates for more invasive procedures. Our team can help you understand all your options and determine if SRT is the right choice for you.

Your treatment experience: What to expect

Most patients receive a series of multiple sessions over several weeks, depending on their specific situation and treatment plan. 

During each appointment, you relax while we place the device applicator to target the lesion. The procedure itself only takes around 15 minutes, and you won’t feel any pain; it’s like getting an X-ray. 

There’s no downtime required, so you’re free to return to your regular activities after SRT sessions. You may experience some temporary side effects, similar to a mild sunburn in the treatment area — think reddish, dry, itchy skin. Our team can provide clear guidance on how to care for your skin and manage any discomfort.

After your treatment is complete, regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your healing and confirm that the area remains free of cancer. These check-ins are essential to maintaining a close eye on your skin health and detecting any new concerns that may arise.

If you have a suspicious spot or mole, don’t wait — have it checked out by our team as soon as possible. Contact Florida Dermatology Associates today to schedule a skin cancer screening.