City Dermatology provides advanced, non-invasive therapies for common non-melanoma skin cancers under the care of Dr. Imran Amir, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist. Many patients are surprised to learn that not every skin cancer requires surgery. Certain types of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and some superficial skin cancers can be safely treated with focused radiation treatments that target only the top layers of the skin.
Our goal is to offer safe, effective options that protect your health while preserving the appearance of your skin. These treatments are ideal for patients who want to avoid surgery, have medical conditions that make surgery risky, or have skin cancers located on sensitive cosmetic areas.
What Is Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)?
Superficial Radiation Therapy, or SRT, is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses low-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells on the surface of the skin. Because the energy only penetrates a shallow depth, deeper tissues remain protected. This makes SRT especially useful for cancers located on the nose, ears, eyelids, scalp, or other areas where surgery may be difficult or may leave noticeable scars.
Patients often choose SRT because of the benefits:
- Non invasive
- Painless
- Highly effective with cure rates over 90 percent for early-stage BCC and SCC
- Skin sparing with excellent cosmetic outcomes
- Performed in short sessions with no downtime
Most treatments are delivered two to three times per week for several weeks. During treatment, you simply sit comfortably while the device delivers focused energy to the area. Many patients return to normal activities immediately afterward.
What to Expect During and After SRT Treatment in Bensalem & Warminster
Most patients feel no pain during SRT. Side effects are usually mild and appear only on the skin being treated. These may include temporary redness, dryness, crusting, or slight peeling. Long-term effects from SRT, such as thinning or lightening of the skin, are uncommon. Notify your City Dermatology provider, Dr. Amir, if you’re experiencing any symptoms you feel may be related to your SRT treatment. Dr. Amir closely monitors your healing throughout the process.
What Is Electronic Brachytherapy (eBx)
Electronic Brachytherapy, or eBx, is another highly targeted, non-surgical skin cancer treatment. Instead of using a radioactive seed placed inside the skin like traditional brachytherapy, eBx uses a small X-ray source that directs treatment only to the cancer spot. The device never stays in the body and poses no danger once the session is complete.
Why Patients Choose eBx for Skin Cancer Treatment
- Very precise targeting of cancer cells
- Excellent cosmetic results
- No surgical wound or stitches
- Minimal treatment time
- High satisfaction rates and strong clinical outcomes
Because of its precision, eBx is ideal for small or moderate-sized cancers on areas like the face, scalp, lower legs, and hands. Treatments usually occur over several short visits.
Safety and Side Effects
Most patients experience mild, temporary skin reactions such as redness, dryness, or light peeling. Serious side effects are rare. Because the radiation is so focused, the surrounding healthy skin receives very little exposure.
Choosing the Right Skin Cancer Treatment
SRT and electronic brachytherapy are excellent options for patients who want to avoid surgery or who may not be good surgical candidates. Our dermatology provider, Dr. Amir, evaluates each case individually to determine whether these therapies are appropriate based on cancer type, size, depth, and location.
Both options deliver cure rates similar to surgery while helping maintain natural skin appearance. Patients appreciate the convenience, comfort, and minimal disruption to daily life.
During your consultation, we explain each option in detail, answer all of your questions, and help you make an informed decision about your skin health.
Request a Consultation at City Dermatology Skin Institute
During your visit to our Bensalem or Warminster Dermatology Clinic, you will receive personalized guidance on the best treatment options for your diagnosis, as well as information about benefits, risks, and what results you can expect.
Proudly Serving Patients Across Bucks County Townships & Northeast Philadelphia
Bucks County
Bensalem, Bristol, Feasterville, Langhorne, Southampton, Levittown, Morrisville, Falls
Northeast Philadelphia
19154, 19114, 19115, 19116, 19136, 19152, 19111, 19149
Warminster Region
Warminster, Warrington, Warwick, Doylestown, Buckingham, Hatboro, Horsham, Abington, New Britain
Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Cancer Radiation Therapy
These treatments are commonly used for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and select cases of superficial skin cancers. They are not used for melanoma.
No. Most patients feel no pain during SRT or eBx. After treatment, the skin may feel warm or slightly irritated, similar to a mild sunburn.
The number of sessions depends on the type and size of your skin cancer. Most patients need several treatments spread over a few weeks.
These therapies are designed to preserve the appearance of the skin. While mild redness or peeling may occur, scarring is uncommon.
You may be a candidate if you want to avoid surgery, have medical conditions that make surgery unsafe, or have skin cancer in a sensitive area where scarring is a concern.
Yes. For many early-stage non-melanoma skin cancers, both SRT and eBx have cure rates above 90 percent, similar to surgical removal.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, including redness, dryness, flaking, or crusting of the skin. Your dermatologist will provide aftercare instructions to help your skin heal.