Many patients feel actinic keratoses before they see them. AK lesions can be scaly, recurrent, and may become irritated with friction. Our dermatologists perform advanced actinic keratosis treatment in Fort Lauderdale to restore the look and feel of your skin while managing your skin cancer risks.
Actinic Keratosis Treatment in Fort Lauderdale
Expert Actinic Keratosis Treatment
Seeing an Actinic Keratosis Specialist
If you think you may have an actinic keratosis, it’s always best to reach out to your dermatologist.
At Galt Dermatology, our doctors typically offer cryotherapy or cryosurgery, using liquid nitrogen to remove damaged skin cells. If you’ve developed multiple lesions, we may suggest another solution such as topical creams or light therapy.
What is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratoses (AK) are precancerous rough patches of skin that form as a result of excessive sun exposure. These lesions may be skin-colored or appear reddened, and they occur most often around the face, shoulders, and ears due to repeated unprotected UV exposure. The affected skin may swell or become hypersensitive. “Picking” the spots off will not prevent them from returning.
Individuals over the age of 40 are more prone to actinic keratoses. If left untreated, these lesions may develop into squamous cell carcinoma and other skin cancers. Your dermatologist might recommend removing the affected lesions to reduce these risks.
What To Expect
Getting Actinic Keratosis Treatment
Consultation
If you’ve noticed a patch of chronically itchy, rough skin, it’s best to consult with a professional as soon as possible. During your consultation, your dermatologist will inspect the affected area of damaged skin to confirm if actinic keratosis is present or if your skin is battling another underlying condition.
Removal
After our board-certified doctors examine your lesion(s), they will explain the best treatment options based on your specific needs. To confirm the diagnosis or distinguish the lesion from skin cancer, we will perform a biopsy. This step is crucial for determining the presence of AK cells and planning the subsequent course of action.
Results
If AK cells are confirmed, your doctor will propose a suitable treatment plan to address the visible skin damage, accompanied by detailed aftercare instructions tailored to the treatment you receive. Within one to two weeks post-biopsy, your dermatologist will inform you of the results. In the event that cancerous cells are detected, we will develop a comprehensive treatment strategy to ensure their complete removal. If no cancerous cells are found, we advise following our prevention recommendations and scheduling annual full-body screenings.
Available Actinic Keratosis Treatments
Cryotherapy or cryosurgery is the most common treatment for actinic keratosis removal. Powered by liquid nitrogen, this treatment freezes and kills the damaged skin cells.
- Cryotherapy/cryosurgery
- Topical treatments
- Light therapy
Start Planning Your Treatment
Our virtual treatment planning tool makes finding the right solution simple. After answering a few questions, our dermatologists will reach out to discuss the most suitable treatments.
About Galt Dermatology & Concierge Medicine
Our patients immediately notice that our dermatology practice is unique when they arrive for their first appointment. At Galt Dermatology & Concierge Medicine, our physicians are committed to transparency—from pricing to realistic results—empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare. You deserve our undivided attention, so our doctors never overbook or rush your visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
While some actinic keratoses disappear without treatment, they may return if the area continues to be exposed to UV rays. Our doctors recommend seeking professional treatment to ensure that the affected skin cells do not contain cancerous cells.
While there is no way to completely prevent AKs, limiting your sun exposure is the best way to reduce your risks.
Patients over the age of 40—as well as individuals who work outside or spend long periods in the sun—are more prone to developing actinic keratoses. Those with a fair complexion, skin that freckles easily, and a history of sunburns are also at higher risk. Patients who struggle with weak immune systems may develop multiple AK lesions.
Your doctor will review your medical history to build your personalized treatment plan and help you reduce your susceptibility.
Why Concierge Medicine?
| CARE BENEFITS | Galt Dermatology & Concierge Medicine |
Traditional Medicine |
| Type of Care | Proactive care; focuses on preventing health issues before they arise. | Reactive care; typically addresses problems as they occur. |
| Patient Volume | Limited patients for personalized care | Manages 2500-4000 patients, less personalized |
| Appointment Access | Same-day/next-day appointments, unlimited access | Weeks to schedule, limited by office hours |
| 24/7 Availability | Direct 24/7 access to care via phone, text, and telehealth | Access mostly during business hours. |
| Appointment Length | Longer, detailed sessions focused on comprehensive care | Short, often rushed visits focused on immediate issues |
| Insurance Handling | No insurance hassles; services covered by membership fee. | Dealing with insurance claims and coverage. |
| Preventive Care | Emphasizes early intervention and wellness | Limited scope for personalized preventive care |
| Personalization | Tailored health management based on in-depth patient knowledge | Less personalized due to patient volume and time limits |
| Health Monitoring | Continuous monitoring with advanced tech | Reactive, with limited monitoring |
| Health Outcomes | Better outcomes due to proactive care | Varies, dependent on patient proactivity |
| Mental Health Support | Integrated mental health support | Often requires external referrals |
| Healthcare Navigation | Assists with healthcare decisions and coordination | Patients manage their own specialist referrals |
| Cost Transparency | Clear cost structures, no unexpected bills | Unpredictable cost due to insurance |
