No Surgery, No Stitches: Naples Has a New Way to Treat Skin Cancer
If the words "skin cancer surgery" make you nervous, you're not alone.
For many patients, the idea of cutting, stitches, and recovery time is enough to delay getting a suspicious spot checked. But here in Naples, there's now another option — and it doesn't involve a scalpel.
Naples Dermatology is the first practice in Collier County to offer GentleCure Image-Guided Superficial Radiotherapy (IG-SRT) *— a non-invasive treatment for certain types of non-melanoma skin cancers.
What Is GentleCure Image-Guided SRT?
GentleCure is an FDA-cleared treatment for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma — the two most common types of skin cancer.
Instead of surgically removing the cancer, it uses precisely targeted, low-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells at the surface of the skin. An ultrasound imaging system guides each treatment to make sure the radiation reaches exactly where it needs to go — and nowhere else.
What Does Treatment Feel Like?
Most patients describe it as comfortable. There's no anesthesia, no cutting, and no stitches. Each session typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and most treatment plans involve multiple sessions spread over several weeks.
Afterward, patients go home the same day. There's no wound to care for and no recovery period that limits daily activity.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
GentleCure may be a good fit if you:
Have been diagnosed with basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma
Have a lesion on the face, ears, scalp, or neck where surgery could be more complex
Want to avoid surgery due to age, health conditions, or personal preference
Have had previous skin cancer surgery and are looking for an alternative
Your dermatologist will evaluate the type, size, and location of your lesion to determine if IG-SRT is the right approach for you.
How Does It Compare to Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery remains one of the most effective treatments for skin cancer, with very high cure rates. GentleCure offers comparable outcomes for appropriate candidates — without the surgical component.
The right choice depends on your specific diagnosis, lesion location, and overall health. Our physicians will walk you through both options so you can make an informed decision.
Why This Matters for Naples Patients
Living in Southwest Florida means more sun exposure than most of the country. Skin cancer rates here are among the highest in the nation — and catching and treating it early is the single most important thing you can do for your long-term health.
Having access to a non-invasive option locally means there's one less reason to put off getting something checked.
Ready to Learn More?
If you've been diagnosed with skin cancer or have a spot that concerns you, we're here to help. Call our Naples office to schedule an appointment today.
*Further Reading
