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Weekly Insight
Summer sun exposure in Miami increases skin cancer risk significantly. Professional screening at Miami Skin Center with Dr. Carolina Puyana detects precancerous and cancerous lesions early, when treatment is most effective. Regular annual exams are essential for South Florida residents.
Coral Gables and Miami's year-round sunshine creates unique skin cancer risks. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, with rates even higher in sunny climates like South Florida. UV exposure during summer months—even with sunscreen—can damage skin cells progressively. Dr. Carolina Puyana recommends annual screenings for all patients, with more frequent evaluations for those with fair skin, family history of melanoma, or numerous moles.
Three main types of skin cancer require different monitoring approaches:
Melanoma is the most dangerous form, often appearing as an asymmetrical, irregular mole with varied colors (A-B-C-D-E rule). Basal Cell Carcinoma typically presents as a pearly bump or sore that won't heal. Squamous Cell Carcinoma appears as a scaly, rough patch or firm nodule. NIH research emphasizes that catching these early dramatically improves outcomes. At Miami Skin Center in Coral Gables, Dr. Puyana performs thorough full-body examinations and uses dermoscopy to evaluate suspicious lesions with precision.
While monthly self-checks using the ABCDEs of melanoma detection help, professional screening is irreplaceable. Dermatologists can identify lesions you might miss, detect changes year-to-year, and use advanced imaging technology. Mayo Clinic recommends professional screening every 6-12 months for high-risk individuals. Dr. Puyana's expertise as a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon means suspicious lesions can be evaluated immediately and managed with precision if treatment becomes necessary.
Screening is just the first step. Sun protection, especially during Miami's intense UV summer months, prevents future skin cancer development. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, seek shade between 10 AM–4 PM, and wear protective clothing. Dr. Puyana also discusses how professional laser skin treatments and chemical peels can address sun damage while simultaneously removing precancerous lesions, combining cosmetic and protective benefits.
Q: How often should I get a professional skin cancer screening in Miami? A: AAD guidelines recommend annual screening for most adults, but every 6-12 months if you have fair skin, family history of melanoma, numerous moles, or history of sunburns. Dr. Puyana customizes screening frequency based on your individual risk profile.
Q: What is Mohs surgery, and when is it used? A: Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique where Dr. Puyana removes skin cancer layer-by-layer, examining each under a microscope to ensure complete removal while preserving healthy tissue. It's ideal for melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers on the face and sensitive areas.
Q: Can skin cancer screening detect early-stage melanoma? A: Yes. Early detection dramatically improves melanoma survival rates—Mayo Clinic reports 99% 5-year survival for stage 1 melanoma versus lower rates for advanced disease. Professional screening catches changes others miss.
Q: Does insurance cover skin cancer screening? A: Most insurance plans cover preventive skin cancer screening, especially if you have risk factors or history of skin cancer. Contact Miami Skin Center to verify your coverage before your appointment.
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This page is educational. Specific treatment decisions are made during your visit with Dr. Puyana.

Written by
Dr. Carolina Puyana, MD
Double Board-Certified Dermatologist & Mohs Surgeon · Skin Cancer · Lasers · Cosmetic
Dr. Carolina Puyana is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, recognized for both clinical excellence and academic distinction. She graduated with the Highest Honors at the top of her class from the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine, after earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Miami and her Master of Public Health from UM's Miller School of Medicine — also with the Highest Honors. A distinguished physician-scholar, Dr. Puyana has authored over 45 peer-reviewed publications with more than 300 citations, contributed to four major dermatology textbooks, and was awarded a National Institutes of Health research grant for her work on skin cancer disparities. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she founded Miami Skin Center to bring elite, evidence-based dermatology to South Florida — combining academic rigor with the personal attention every patient deserves.
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