Melanoma

You Noticed Something Different About a Mole. That Takes Courage, and We're Here to Help.

Maybe a family member pointed it out. Maybe you caught it yourself in the mirror after a summer of hiking, boating, or working outdoors in Idaho's high-altitude sun. Whatever brought you here, noticing a change and deciding to get it checked is one of the most important things you can do for your health.

Idaho's elevation means stronger UV exposure than many patients realize, and years of sun on the river, the slopes, or the trail can add up. At Treasure Valley Dermatology, we see patients every week who are simply looking for a straight answer from someone who knows exactly what they're looking at. You are not alone in this, and you are in capable hands. Patients may be seen by any of our providers, and every member of our team is trained to evaluate and treat skin cancer.

What Is Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in the pigment-producing cells of the skin. It is less common than other skin cancers, but it is more likely to spread if not caught and treated early, which is why timely evaluation matters.

• Can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new spot on normal skin
• Often linked to cumulative UV exposure, sunburn history, and genetics
• May appear anywhere on the body, including areas with little sun exposure
• Highly treatable when identified at an early stage
• Diagnosed through clinical exam and, when needed, a skin biopsy

Dermatologists commonly reference the "ABCDE" warning signs: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving size, shape, or color over time.

What to Expect at Your Visit

• Initial consultation: One of our providers will examine the spot in question along with a full skin check, since melanoma can appear in unexpected places
• Dermoscopy: A specialized magnifying tool may be used to look more closely at pigment patterns
• Biopsy if needed: A small sample of tissue is removed under local anesthesia, typically well-tolerated with minimal discomfort, and sent to pathology
• Results: Most biopsy results return within about one to two weeks
• Treatment planning: If melanoma is confirmed, your dermatologist will discuss next steps, which may include surgical excision or Mohs surgery depending on the location and depth
• Follow-up care: Ongoing skin checks are scheduled to monitor for recurrence or new areas of concern

Results and What Recovery Looks Like

Every case of melanoma is different, and your dermatologist will walk you through what to realistically expect based on the stage and location of the spot. Many patients find that early-stage melanoma treated with surgical removal has an excellent prognosis.

• Early-stage melanoma is often successfully treated with surgical excision alone
• Healing time after excision varies by size and location, generally within a few weeks
• Regular skin checks going forward help catch any new changes early
• Your care plan may include referrals to oncology for more advanced cases
• Sun protection habits become an important part of long-term prevention

Who Should Get Checked

• Anyone who has noticed a new, changing, or unusual-looking mole or spot
• Patients with a personal or family history of melanoma or skin cancer
• People with fair skin, light eyes, or a history of blistering sunburns
• Those with many moles or atypical moles
• Idaho residents with significant lifetime outdoor and high-altitude sun exposure
• Adults of any age, including young adults, and children with concerning spots
• Anyone who hasn't had a full-body skin exam in the past year

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a mole is something to worry about?

Look for the ABCDE warning signs: asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, a diameter larger than a pencil eraser, or a spot that is changing over time. If something looks or feels different from your other moles, it is worth having it examined rather than waiting.

Is a skin biopsy painful?

Biopsies are performed under local anesthesia and are generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort. Most patients describe the process as quick, often just a few minutes for a small sample.

What happens if my biopsy comes back as melanoma?

Your dermatologist will discuss your specific diagnosis, including the stage and depth, and outline a treatment plan tailored to you. This may include surgical excision, Mohs surgery, or a referral for additional staging depending on your individual case.

Can children or teenagers get melanoma?

Melanoma in children and teens is uncommon but does occur, and our team evaluates patients of all ages who have a concerning spot. If you notice something unusual on your child's skin, it's always reasonable to have it checked.

How often should I get a full-body skin check?

Most adults benefit from an annual skin exam, and those with a personal or family history of skin cancer may need more frequent checks. Your provider can help determine the right screening schedule based on your risk factors.

Why Treasure Valley Dermatology

When you're facing a possible melanoma diagnosis, you want a team that combines genuine compassion with real surgical expertise. Treasure Valley Dermatology is home to Dr. Dustin Portela, Dr. Kelsey Ferrell, and Dr. Ben Buttars, board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery, including fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon Dr. Ferrell, who bring advanced surgical training to skin cancer care.

• Board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery, including fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon Dr. Ferrell, available for complex or high-risk cases
• Dr. Portela, an Idaho native and dermatologic surgeon, brings deep community roots to your care
• Dr. Ferrell, a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Boise State University, is known for her thorough, attentive approach, with patients noting she "genuinely cares about her patients"
• Dr. Ben Buttars, DO, board-certified dermatologist and Idaho native
• 700+ five-star reviews reflecting a practice culture where patients say they "still feel like they're their only patient"
• Full-family dermatology care for children, adults, and seniors
• Two convenient locations serving Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Nampa, Caldwell, Star, and Kuna
• Access to clinical trials for select skin conditions

Schedule Your Skin Check Today

If you've found a spot that concerns you, don't wait to have it evaluated. Our providers are here to give you clear answers and a care plan built around your specific needs, delivered with the warmth and attentiveness Treasure Valley patients have come to expect.

Schedule your visit online at dermatologyboise.com/schedule-an-appointment or contact our Boise or Meridian office directly. Your skin deserves an expert second look, and we're ready when you are.