May 11, 2011

It is estimated that one in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer at some point in their life. That is why people, like Tom Bomar, receive routine exams from dermatologists like Bonnie Straka.

"Twice over the 20 year period, Dr. Straka has found tiny beginning of malignant melanomas and interestingly they're right, both of them, right in the middle of my back, where I don't really get any sun because I always try to wear a t-shirt," said Bomar.

Aside from staying out of the sun, there is some new cutting edge technology in Charlottesville which is helping people to treat pre-cancerous lesions.

"There are some lasers out now that are able to effectively remove the outer layers of skin in a way that seems safe in addition to providing the cosmetic improvement, tightening up the skin and decreasing wrinkles, decreasing pigmentation, we also know that by removing a lot of the damaged skin, the body replaces it with newer and healthier skin," said Dr. Bonnie Straka, a dermatologist.

Hundreds of clients are already benefiting from a laser made by the Fraxel Company.

"It's a 1927 wavelength which until December when it was FDA approved and release, did not exist," said Dr. Straka. The laser energy goes down into the skin and pulls out the pigmentation, which produces an inflammatory reaction that also stimulates collagen. Four to six days later, all the dead skin will peel off and is replaced by new non-pigmented healthy skin.

The treatment is not currently covered by health insurance, however, Dr. Straka says that may change in several years. Treatment costs about $1,800 for a full face and most only need one treatment.