Hearing the words “skin cancer” can make the world feel like it’s spinning. Suddenly, you’re faced with medical terms and decisions you never expected. But you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Your healthcare team is there to guide you, and being informed helps you work with them more effectively. We’ll explore the full range of skin cancer treatment options, from straightforward surgical removals to non-invasive topical creams and advanced immunotherapies. Think of this as your starting point for understanding what lies ahead, helping you turn confusion into confidence as you take the next steps.
Key Takeaways
- Know your skin to catch cancer early: Learning the signs of the three main types of skin cancer (basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma) empowers you to perform effective self-exams and know when to see a doctor about a suspicious spot.
- Your treatment plan is a collaborative decision: The best approach for you depends on the cancer’s specifics, like its type and stage, along with your overall health and personal goals. It’s important to discuss all options with your healthcare team to find the right fit.
- Care continues long after treatment ends: Staying on top of follow-up appointments, performing monthly skin checks, and adopting sun-safe habits are key parts of your long-term health plan to manage recovery and reduce future risks.
What Are the Main Types of Skin Cancer?
Getting familiar with the main types of skin cancer is a great first step in knowing what to look for. Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, but the good news is that it’s also highly curable when detected early. That’s why knowing your own skin and understanding what to watch for is so important. Think of it as becoming an expert on you. Regular self-checks can help you notice any new or changing spots that might need a closer look from a professional. It’s a simple habit that can make a huge difference.
Most skin cancers fall into one of three main categories: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each one starts in a different type of cell within your skin, looks different, and can behave differently. While they share some similarities, like often appearing on sun-exposed skin, their specific signs can vary. Understanding these differences is key to early detection. It helps you move from worrying about every spot to confidently identifying what’s normal for your body and what might be a reason to schedule a doctor’s visit. Having this knowledge empowers you to take an active role in your health and work effectively with your medical team. Let’s walk through what defines each of these common types so you can feel more prepared.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer you’ll encounter. It often shows up on sun-exposed areas like your face and neck. You might notice it as a small, shiny bump that looks pearly or waxy, or it could appear as a flat, flesh-colored patch. Sometimes, it looks like a sore that just won’t heal, repeatedly bleeding and scabbing over. The good news is that BCC grows slowly and very rarely spreads to other parts of the body. This makes it highly treatable, especially when you find it early. Learning more about understanding cancer can give you a solid foundation for what comes next.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer. Like BCC, it usually develops on skin that gets a lot of sun, such as your ears, face, neck, and hands. SCC can look like a firm, red bump, a scaly patch, or a sore that heals and then reopens. It might also appear as a new sore on top of an old scar. While SCC can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated, it is also very curable when detected early. Promptly discussing any new or changing spots with your doctor is key to exploring your treatment basics and getting the care you need.
Melanoma
Melanoma is less common than BCC and SCC, but it’s more serious because it’s more likely to grow and spread. This type of cancer develops in the cells that give your skin its color. It can appear as a new, unusual-looking mole or a change in an existing one. A helpful way to spot potential melanoma is to look for moles with asymmetrical shapes, irregular borders, varied colors, or a diameter larger than a pencil eraser. Since early detection is so important, regular skin checks are a vital part of your prevention routine. If you notice any new or changing spots, it’s always best to have them checked by a healthcare professional.
How Do Doctors Determine Your Skin Cancer Stage?
After a skin cancer diagnosis, one of the first things your medical team will do is determine its stage. Staging is simply the process doctors use to figure out the size of the cancer and, most importantly, whether it has spread from its original spot to other parts of your body. Think of it as creating a map of what’s going on. This map is essential because it guides every decision about your treatment.
The staging process can feel like a lot of appointments and tests, but each step provides a crucial piece of information. Your doctor will combine the findings from a physical exam, a biopsy, and sometimes imaging tests to get a complete picture. This information helps them understand the specifics of your cancer, which allows them to create a treatment plan tailored just for you. Knowing the stage helps your care team recommend the most effective options and gives you a clearer understanding of what to expect. It’s a systematic approach to ensure you get the best possible care from the very beginning.
The Role of Physical Exams and Biopsies
The process usually starts with a thorough physical exam. Your doctor will carefully check the suspicious spot on your skin, noting its size, shape, color, and texture. They will also likely check the rest of your body for any other unusual spots and feel for swollen lymph nodes, which can sometimes indicate that cancer has started to spread. They’ll also ask you questions about your personal and family health history.
If your doctor suspects skin cancer, the next step is almost always a skin biopsy. During a biopsy, the doctor removes a small sample of the abnormal tissue. This sample is then sent to a lab where a specialist, called a pathologist, examines it under a microscope to see if cancer cells are present.
Using Imaging and Lab Tests for Staging
Depending on the results of your biopsy and the type of skin cancer, your doctor might need more information to see if the cancer has spread. This is where imaging and lab tests come in. These tests create pictures of the inside of your body, helping doctors see things they can’t with a physical exam alone.
Common imaging tests include CT scans, chest X-rays, and ultrasounds. For example, if you have a more advanced squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma, your doctor might order these tests to check if the cancer has reached nearby lymph nodes or other organs. These procedures are typically painless and are a standard part of the staging process for certain types of skin cancer.
Why Your Stage Is Key to Your Treatment Plan
All the information gathered from your exams, biopsy, and imaging tests comes together to determine the stage of your skin cancer. This stage is a critical piece of your medical puzzle. It directly influences which treatment options your healthcare team will recommend. For instance, an early-stage cancer might only require a simple surgical removal, while a later-stage cancer may need a combination of treatments.
Your cancer’s stage is the foundation of your care plan. It helps your doctors choose the most effective path forward and gives them an idea of your prognosis. Fully understanding cancer and its stage empowers you to have more informed conversations with your doctor and play an active role in your treatment decisions.
What Are the Surgical Options for Skin Cancer?
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, surgery is often the first and most effective line of defense. The main goal of any surgical procedure is to remove all of the cancerous cells from your skin. Think of it as a very precise way to get rid of the problem at its source. Your doctor will recommend the best surgical approach for you based on a few key factors, including the type of skin cancer you have, how large it is, and where it’s located on your body.
For many people, the idea of surgery can feel overwhelming, but these procedures are very common and have high success rates, especially when the cancer is caught early. Your care team will walk you through every step, from preparing for the procedure to what you can expect during recovery. They are there to answer all your questions and make sure you feel comfortable and informed. Understanding your options is the first step toward feeling more in control of your treatment plan. Let’s look at the most common surgical treatments for skin cancer.
Standard Excision
Standard excision is one of the most common ways to treat skin cancer. During this procedure, a surgeon carefully cuts out the tumor along with a small border of the healthy-looking skin around it, which is called a margin. This margin is important because it helps ensure that no cancer cells are left behind. The removed tissue is then sent to a lab to be examined under a microscope. This method is a go-to skin cancer treatment for both basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. It’s a straightforward and highly effective procedure that can often be done right in your doctor’s office using local anesthesia.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs surgery is a highly specialized technique designed to remove skin cancer while saving as much healthy tissue as possible. Instead of removing the tumor all at once, the surgeon removes it one very thin layer at a time. After each layer is removed, it’s immediately examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. The process continues, layer by layer, until no cancer cells are found. Because of its precision, Mohs surgery is one of the best skin cancer treatment options for cancers in sensitive or visible areas like the face, ears, or hands. It offers a very high cure rate and minimizes scarring.
Lymph Node Surgery
Sometimes, there’s a concern that skin cancer, particularly melanoma, may have spread to other parts of the body. Lymph node surgery helps your doctor determine if this has happened. The procedure, often called a sentinel lymph node biopsy, involves identifying and removing the first few lymph nodes where cancer cells would most likely travel. These nodes are then tested for cancer. If no cancer is found, it’s unlikely it has spread further, and no more lymph nodes need to be removed. This diagnosis and treatment step is crucial for staging the cancer accurately and creating the most effective plan for your care.
Exploring Non-Surgical Treatments
When you hear “cancer treatment,” surgery might be the first thing that comes to mind. But it’s not the only option, especially for skin cancer. Depending on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, your doctor might recommend a non-surgical approach. These treatments can be highly effective and are often less invasive, which can be a great choice for cancers on sensitive areas like the face or for individuals who may not be good candidates for surgery. These methods work in different ways, from using radiation to applying medicated creams, giving you and your healthcare team more tools to work with.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a treatment that uses high-energy X-rays or other particles to destroy cancer cells. Think of it as a highly focused beam of energy that targets the tumor while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. This approach is often used for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, particularly if they are in a location that’s difficult to operate on, like an eyelid or the tip of your nose. It’s also a solid option if your overall health makes surgery too risky. The skin cancer treatment is typically given in a series of sessions over several weeks, and your oncology team will create a precise plan just for you.
Topical Chemotherapy
For some types of very early-stage or superficial skin cancers, treatment can be as simple as applying a cream. Topical chemotherapy uses a medicated ointment or lotion that you apply directly to the affected skin. The drugs in the cream are designed to kill fast-growing cancer cells on the surface without affecting the healthy cells underneath. This method is most effective for pre-cancers like actinic keratosis and for superficial basal cell carcinomas. It allows you to treat the cancer at home over a period of weeks, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure it works effectively and to manage any skin irritation.
Cryotherapy and Electrodesiccation
Two other common non-surgical methods are cryotherapy and electrodesiccation. Cryotherapy, also called cryosurgery, involves freezing the cancerous tissue with liquid nitrogen. The extreme cold destroys the abnormal cells, which then blister and fall off, allowing healthy skin to grow back. It’s a quick procedure often used for pre-cancers and small, early-stage skin cancers.
Another technique is electrodesiccation and curettage. In this two-step process, your doctor first scrapes away the cancerous tissue with a tool called a curette. Then, they use an electric needle to burn the area, destroying any remaining cancer cells and helping to control bleeding. This is one of the most common skin cancer treatment options for small, surface-level basal or squamous cell cancers.
A Look at Advanced Treatment Options
Beyond surgery and radiation, researchers have developed innovative ways to treat skin cancer, especially for cases that are more advanced or complex. These treatments work in highly specific ways, targeting cancer cells while aiming to leave healthy cells unharmed. They represent a significant step forward in cancer care, offering new options and hope for many patients.
These advanced therapies often harness your body’s own systems or target the unique characteristics of cancer cells. Think of them as highly specialized tools designed for a very specific job. Understanding these options can help you have more informed conversations with your doctor about the best path forward for your care.
Immunotherapy for Melanoma
Immunotherapy is a groundbreaking approach that uses your own immune system to fight cancer. Normally, your immune system is great at finding and destroying invaders, but cancer cells can be tricky and have ways of hiding. Immunotherapy drugs, known as immune checkpoint inhibitors, essentially unmask these cancer cells. They block the signals that cancer cells use to hide, allowing your immune cells to recognize and attack them effectively. This treatment has become a key part of the treatment basics for melanoma, especially for advanced stages, helping to train your body’s natural defenses to become a powerful force against the disease.
Targeted Therapy for Genetic Mutations
Targeted therapy is a form of precision medicine that uses drugs to attack specific features of cancer cells. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which can affect all fast-growing cells, these drugs are designed to find and block the particular signals that help skin cancer cells grow and divide. For this treatment to be an option, your doctor will test the cancer cells for specific genetic mutations. If a match is found, you can receive a drug that zeroes in on that exact target. This precise approach often leads to fewer side effects on healthy tissues, making it a powerful and more tolerable option for many people with certain types of skin cancer.
Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy, or PDT, is a two-part treatment that uses a special light-activated drug to destroy cancer cells. First, a photosensitizing agent is applied to the skin as a cream or given as an injection. This drug is absorbed by cells throughout the body but stays in cancer cells longer than in normal cells. A day or two later, your doctor will expose the tumor to a specific type of light. This light activates the drug, creating a reaction that kills the cancer cells. Because the drug is only activated where the light is shined, PDT can target cancer very precisely with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
How to Manage Potential Treatment Side Effects
Going through skin cancer treatment is a major step, and it’s completely normal to have questions about what comes next, especially regarding side effects. While every person’s experience is unique, many side effects are manageable with the right care and communication with your medical team. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and in control. Your doctors and nurses are your best resource for managing any discomfort, so never hesitate to speak up about how you’re feeling. Together, you can create a plan to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout your treatment and recovery.
Understanding Common Physical Side Effects
It’s helpful to know that many physical side effects of skin cancer treatment are temporary and localized to the treated area. You might experience some fatigue, which is a very common response as your body works to heal. Since the treatment is focused on your skin, you may also notice changes like redness, dryness, itching, or even some darkening of the skin. In some cases, you might see rashes, hair loss in the specific area that was treated, or changes to your nails. These dermatological side effects are a normal part of the process, and your healthcare team can offer specific advice for managing them based on your individual treatment plan.
Tips for Managing Skin Changes and Discomfort
Taking gentle care of your skin during and after treatment can make a big difference in your comfort. Think of it as giving your skin a little extra support while it heals. Opt for mild, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers, and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing. Wearing loose, soft clothing can also prevent irritation. It’s especially important to protect the treated area from the sun, so hats and protective clothing are your friends. Your doctor can recommend specific creams or lotions to soothe your skin. Learning how to cope with skin changes is a key part of your recovery journey.
What to Watch for Long-Term
Once your treatment is complete, your long-term care plan will focus on monitoring your health and skin. Your doctor will schedule regular follow-up appointments to check for any signs of recurrence and manage any lingering side effects. It’s also a great time to get into the habit of checking your own skin monthly. Get to know your skin, and see a doctor if you notice any new spots or changes in existing ones. Pay close attention to anything that looks different, grows, or bleeds. This proactive approach is a crucial part of your ongoing skin cancer treatment and long-term wellness plan.
How to Choose the Right Treatment for You
Deciding on a treatment plan for skin cancer is a significant step, and it’s a decision you’ll make in partnership with your healthcare team. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer; the right path for you will depend on several key factors. Your doctors will present you with options, explaining the goals and potential outcomes of each one. Your role is to understand these choices, consider what matters most to you, and work with your team to select a plan that aligns with both your medical needs and personal priorities. Taking the time to weigh the benefits and possible side effects of each treatment is an essential part of the process.
Your Cancer’s Type, Stage, and Location
The specific details of your diagnosis are the foundation of your treatment plan. Your medical team will consider the type of skin cancer you have (like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma), its stage, and its location on your body. For example, a small, early-stage tumor on your arm might be treated differently than a larger one on your face. Doctors evaluate the size of the tumor, how deeply it has grown, and whether it is likely to return or spread. This detailed understanding of cancer helps them recommend the most effective options for your unique situation.
Your Overall Health
Your general health is another critical piece of the puzzle. When recommending treatments, your doctors will consider your age, any other medical conditions you have, and the strength of your immune system. Some treatments can be more demanding on the body than others, so a complete picture of your health helps ensure the chosen plan is safe and manageable for you. Your chance of a smooth recovery is often linked to your overall wellness. This is why it’s so important to be open with your care team about your entire health history, as it allows them to tailor a treatment that gives you the best possible outcome.
Your Personal Goals and Preferences
This is your health journey, and your voice matters. As you discuss treatment choices with your doctors, think about your personal goals and what you value. Are you concerned about potential scarring? Do you want to minimize recovery time? It’s important to talk about the pros and cons of each option, including possible side effects and how they might impact your daily life. Don’t feel rushed into making a choice. The American Cancer Fund is here to support you and your family, and that includes empowering you to take an active role in your care. Clearly communicating your preferences will help your team find a treatment that feels right for you.
How to Talk to Your Healthcare Team
A skin cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, and medical appointments can move quickly. Learning to communicate effectively with your doctors and nurses is one of the most important things you can do. Think of it as building a partnership. Your healthcare team brings medical expertise, but you bring the most important knowledge of all: your own body, your values, and your life. Being an active, vocal member of this partnership helps ensure your treatment plan aligns with your personal goals.
Open communication helps you fully understand your cancer and your options. It also helps your team provide the best possible care because they have a clearer picture of what you’re experiencing and what matters most to you. Don’t ever feel like your questions are silly or that you’re taking up too much time. This is your health, and you have a right to be fully informed and involved in every decision. Taking the time to prepare for conversations and speak up about your needs can make a significant difference in your treatment experience.
Prepare for Your Appointments
Walking into your appointment prepared can make a world of difference. Before you go, take a few minutes to jot down any questions, concerns, or new symptoms you’ve noticed. There’s no such thing as a bad question. It’s also a great idea to bring a trusted family member or friend with you. They can offer support, help you remember what the doctor says, and even take notes so you can focus on the conversation. Having a second set of ears ensures you capture all the important details during your visit.
Ask the Right Questions About Your Options
When discussing treatment, it’s vital to understand all your choices. Ask your doctor to discuss all your treatment choices, what each one is designed to do, and what the potential side effects are. You can ask questions like, “What is the goal of this treatment?” or “What can I expect my recovery to look like?” It’s also important to keep your doctor informed about any changes you see on your skin between appointments. Proactive communication about new or changing spots helps your team stay on top of your condition.
Clearly State Your Preferences
Your voice is the most important one in the room when it comes to your health. Your doctors will provide recommendations based on their expertise, but the final decision rests with you. Feel empowered to share your personal preferences, lifestyle considerations, and what you hope to achieve with treatment. You have the right to be an active participant in your care and treatment decisions. This includes the right to ask for a second opinion or even to refuse or stop a treatment if it doesn’t feel right for you.
Build Your Medical Support Network
Your cancer care team is often much larger than just your main doctor. It can include a team of specialists, such as dermatologists, surgeons, and oncologists, who work together to create your treatment plan. Beyond your doctors, many other healthcare professionals are there to support you. Nurses, pharmacists, and social workers are valuable resources who can answer questions, help manage side effects, and connect you with financial or emotional support services. Don’t hesitate to lean on this entire collaborative care team throughout your journey.
Clearing Up Common Myths About Skin Cancer Treatment
When you’re facing a skin cancer diagnosis, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information available. Friends, family, and the internet are full of advice, but not all of it is accurate. Let’s clear the air and tackle a few common myths about skin cancer treatment. Getting a handle on the facts can help you feel more in control and confident as you discuss your options with your healthcare team. For a solid foundation, you can always find trusted information about understanding cancer to guide you.
Myth: All Skin Cancers Are Painful
One of the most persistent myths is that you’ll feel pain if you have skin cancer. The reality is that most skin cancers, especially in their early stages, are completely painless. A new or changing spot on your skin might not itch, bleed, or hurt at all, which makes it easy to ignore. This is precisely why relying on pain as a warning sign is so dangerous. Instead, the most effective approach is to be proactive. Performing regular skin self-exams and seeing a dermatologist for professional checks are the best ways to catch any potential issues early, when they are most treatable.
Myth: Natural Remedies Can Replace Medical Treatment
It’s understandable to explore all avenues for your health, including natural or alternative therapies. However, it’s critical to know that these remedies cannot replace proven medical treatments for skin cancer. While some holistic approaches can support your overall well-being during treatment, relying on them alone can be harmful. Delaying a diagnosis or standard medical care like surgery or radiation gives the cancer more time to grow and spread, which can significantly worsen your prognosis. Always talk to your oncologist before trying any new remedies to ensure they are safe and won’t interfere with your prescribed treatment plan.
Myth: Treatment Guarantees No Recurrence
While skin cancer treatments are often highly successful, no treatment can guarantee that the cancer will never come back. A recurrence, which is the return of cancer after treatment, is always a possibility. This isn’t meant to be discouraging; instead, it highlights the importance of long-term care. Your journey doesn’t end with your last treatment session. Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor and diligent skin monitoring are essential parts of your recovery. Staying on top of your healthy living habits and follow-up care gives you the best chance of detecting any new or returning cancers as early as possible.
Life After Treatment: Recovery and Long-Term Care
Finishing your skin cancer treatment is a huge milestone, but it’s also the beginning of a new chapter focused on recovery and long-term health. This next phase is all about healing, staying vigilant, and taking proactive steps to care for your body. Your life after treatment involves a partnership with your healthcare team and a commitment to your own well-being. By focusing on consistent follow-up care and healthy habits, you can feel more in control and confident about your future. It’s a time to process what you’ve been through and build a sustainable plan for staying healthy for years to come.
Your Recovery: What to Expect
Your recovery journey is unique to you. The physical and emotional changes you experience will depend on the type of treatment you had, the extent of the cancer, and your overall health. Physically, you might be dealing with scarring, tenderness, or changes in skin texture around the treatment area. Emotionally, it’s normal to feel a mix of relief, anxiety, and uncertainty. Give yourself grace and time to heal. Your body has been through a lot, and recovery isn’t always a straight line. Communicating with your care team about what you’re experiencing is key to managing any discomfort and ensuring a smooth healing process.
The Importance of Follow-Up Care and Skin Monitoring
After treatment, staying on top of your follow-up care is one of the most important things you can do. These appointments are essential for monitoring your recovery and checking for any signs of recurrence or new skin cancers. Early detection is a powerful tool that greatly improves outcomes. Your doctor will likely recommend a schedule for regular skin examinations. Between these professional check-ups, get into the habit of doing monthly self-exams to notice any new or changing spots. This proactive approach helps you play an active role in your long-term cancer care.
Adopt Healthy Habits to Prevent Recurrence
You can take powerful, practical steps every day to support your skin health and reduce the risk of future skin cancers. Sun protection is your first line of defense, so make using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade a daily habit. Beyond sun safety, your overall lifestyle makes a difference. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can contribute to your skin’s health. It’s also a great time to let go of habits that don’t serve you, like using tanning beds or smoking. These simple but consistent choices are part of a broader strategy for healthy living and long-term wellness.
Related Articles
- Understanding Cancer
- Treatment Basics
- Prevention
- Skin Cancer Treatment (PDQ)
- Coping with Skin Changes
Frequently Asked Questions
How often will I need to see a dermatologist after my treatment is finished? Your follow-up schedule will be tailored specifically to you. Generally, you can expect to have check-ups every three to six months for the first couple of years after treatment. If all looks good over time, these visits may become less frequent, perhaps shifting to once a year. These appointments are so important because they are the best way for your doctor to spot any potential new skin cancers or a recurrence at the earliest possible stage.
Will my treatment leave a scar? Most skin cancer treatments will leave some kind of scar, but its appearance depends heavily on the procedure you had and where it was located. For example, Mohs surgery is specifically designed to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible, which helps minimize scarring. The best thing you can do is follow your doctor’s after-care instructions perfectly. Protecting the healing area from the sun is also key, as sun exposure can make scars darker and more noticeable.
Can skin cancer return even after it’s been successfully removed? Yes, it is possible for skin cancer to come back. This can happen in two ways: it might return in the same area, which is called a local recurrence, or you could develop a completely new skin cancer somewhere else on your body. This is why your long-term care plan is so vital. Staying consistent with your follow-up appointments and getting into the habit of checking your own skin every month are the most effective ways to stay ahead of any potential issues.
What’s the most important thing I can do to protect my skin going forward? Without a doubt, consistent sun protection is the most powerful habit you can build. This means making broad-spectrum sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your daily routine, even on cloudy days. It also includes wearing protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats when you know you’ll be outdoors for a while. Think of it not as a chore, but as a simple, proactive way to care for your health every single day.
If my skin cancer was caught early, do I still need to worry about it spreading? Catching skin cancer early is fantastic because it significantly lowers the risk of it spreading to other parts of your body. For many early-stage skin cancers, a simple removal is often all that’s needed. However, your medical team will still be thorough. The staging process helps them understand the specific characteristics of the cancer, and your follow-up plan is designed to monitor your health closely. While the risk is much lower with early detection, staying vigilant with your check-ups is still the smartest path forward.