Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. While skin cancers can be found on any part of the body, about 80 percent appear on the face, head, or neck.

Skin cancer prevention starts with an awareness of the dangers of sun exposure and the measures needed to protect the skin from its ravages. In Australia, which has the world's highest skin cancer rate, an intensive advertising campaign has been launched by the Australian Cancer Council. Its message: "Skin cancer — It's killer body art." (Click to view television community service announcement.)

The most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. Though basal cell carcinoma is seldom life-threatening, if left untreated it can grow deep beneath the skin and into the underlying tissue and bone, causing serious damage (particularly if it's located near the eye).

Squamous cell carcinoma, the next most common type of skin cancer, frequently appears on the lips, face, or ears. It sometimes spreads to distant sites, including lymph nodes and internal organs. Squamous cell carcinoma can become life threatening if it is not treated.

Malignant melanoma, is the least common, but most dangerous type of skin cancer. It can be completely cured. If it is not treated quickly, however, malignant melanoma may spread throughout the body and is often deadly.

For more information on melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer you may click here to visit the American Cancer Society website.

Procedures for the skin include skin cancer surgery and reconstruction; skin care products; scar revision; spider vein treatment.

See also: Botox®injection; laser skin resurfacing; DiamondTome™ microdermabrasion; Thermage®; photopneumatic therapy; Radiesse™ injectable filler