Radiation therapy is an effective, non-invasive treatment option for certain types of skin cancer. It uses focused energy to target and destroy cancer cells and can be particularly helpful when surgery is not ideal or preferred.
While Mohs micrographic surgery remains the gold standard for many skin cancers—especially those in cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas—radiation therapy may be appropriate in select situations, such as:
Radiation therapy is typically delivered over multiple sessions (up to 20) and offers good local control with minimal downtime. It avoids the need for incisions and may be especially useful in areas where tissue preservation is critical. Radiation does not offer the same real-time margin control as Mohs surgery, and cosmetic changes—such as skin texture or pigment differences—may appear gradually over time. For these reasons, it is most often reserved for specific clinical scenarios rather than used as a first-line treatment in younger or surgically eligible patients. Our multidisciplinary team carefully evaluates each case to determine the most appropriate approach, ensuring both oncologic safety and optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes. When radiation is the right choice, we coordinate closely with our multidisciplinary team to deliver tailored care.