Melanoma screening, diagnosis, and treatment planning in Brooklyn, NY starts with prompt evaluation of changing moles, new or unusual lesions, and individual skin-cancer risk. At Skin Glow Dermatology, Yelena Terushkin, PA-C evaluates suspicious lesions and helps coordinate biopsy, pathology review, and appropriate next steps when melanoma is suspected or diagnosed.
Melanoma develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin. It can spread if untreated, which makes early recognition and accurate diagnosis especially important. Treatment depends on pathology and stage and may require surgical treatment and, for more advanced disease, coordinated specialty or oncology care.
A mole that changes in size, shape, color, elevation, or symptoms should be evaluated.
A lesion that looks noticeably different from the rest can deserve closer examination.
Symptoms do not automatically mean melanoma, but persistent symptoms combined with visible change should be assessed.
Uneven pigmentation, multiple colors, asymmetry, or an irregular border can be warning features.
For evaluation of an individual mole, see our mole check service. For broader screening, see our total-body skin cancer exam.
One half does not resemble the other half.
Edges may appear irregular, uneven, blurred, or poorly defined.
Uneven pigmentation or several colors may be present.
Diameter is one feature considered during evaluation, but smaller melanomas can occur.
Changes in size, shape, color, elevation, or symptoms are important to report.
A mole that looks unlike your other lesions may also need closer evaluation.
Your provider reviews the lesion, changes over time, symptoms, personal history, family history, and relevant risk factors.
If melanoma is suspected, an appropriate biopsy is used to obtain tissue for microscopic examination.
Pathology establishes whether melanoma is present and provides important information used for staging and treatment planning.
Next steps depend on the pathology and stage and may involve surgical care, additional testing, surveillance, or specialist/oncology referral.
Treatment is determined after melanoma is confirmed and staged. Skin Glow Dermatology can evaluate suspicious lesions and help patients navigate appropriate treatment and referral.
Surgery is a central treatment for localized melanoma. The surgical plan and margins depend on the pathology and clinical circumstances.
Depending on tumor characteristics, additional evaluation may be recommended to determine whether further staging is appropriate.
Higher-stage or more complex melanoma may require coordinated care with surgical specialists, medical oncology, or other specialists.
After melanoma treatment, follow-up skin examinations and other surveillance may be recommended based on stage, treatment, and individual risk.
Patients diagnosed with another type of skin cancer can also learn about our Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment in Brooklyn, NY, including evaluation and treatment planning for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
If available, older clear photographs may help show how a mole or lesion has changed over time.
If a biopsy was performed elsewhere, bring the pathology report and relevant treatment records.
Tell your provider about prior melanoma, other skin cancers, atypical moles, and relevant family history.
Your insurance card and referral information, if required by your plan, can help with verification and authorization.
Medically necessary evaluation of a suspicious lesion, biopsy, pathology, and melanoma treatment may be covered by insurance. Exact coverage depends on your plan, network, deductible, copay, referral requirements, treatment setting, and prior authorization.
Bring your insurance card and any referral information required by your plan. Coverage should be verified before assuming that a screening, biopsy, pathology service, procedure, or specialist visit is covered.
Patients without insurance can use self-pay for dermatology consultations and melanoma evaluations at Skin Glow Dermatology. Consultation pricing does not include every possible biopsy, pathology charge, surgery, imaging, oncology treatment, hospital service, or outside specialist fee.
Not every melanoma can be prevented, but reducing unnecessary ultraviolet exposure and paying attention to skin changes are important parts of long-term skin health.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, shade, and avoid indoor tanning.
Become familiar with your usual moles and spots so new or evolving lesions are easier to recognize.
A rapidly changing or otherwise concerning lesion should be evaluated rather than waiting for the next routine exam.
Screening and surveillance frequency should be individualized according to personal history and risk.
Skin Glow Dermatology is located at 480 Court St, Suite #103, Brooklyn, NY 11231. Schedule with Yelena Terushkin, PA-C for evaluation of a changing mole, suspicious lesion, melanoma risk, or follow-up after an outside biopsy.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice, biopsy, pathology, staging, or individualized cancer treatment. If melanoma is diagnosed, treatment depends on pathology, stage, and other clinical factors. Insurance coverage varies by plan.
Updated: October 3, 2026
