Yes, IG-SRT is particularly popular for cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas like the face, ears, neck, and even hands. The big reason is the cosmetic outcome – IG-SRT can eliminate the cancer without leaving a surgical scar, which is a huge benefit when dealing with visible areas. For example, if someone has a basal cell carcinoma on the nose or near the eye, surgery might result in a noticeable scar or even require reconstruction (flaps/grafts). IG-SRT can treat that same lesion with an excellent chance of cure and the skin can heal to a nearly normal appearance, preserving features and symmetry. Patients who have cancers on areas like the nose, lips, eyelids, ears, or cheeks often choose IG-SRT to avoid cutting those delicate structures. The treatment is gentle on the skin’s appearance – over time, the treated site typically blends in with surrounding skin. Another advantage in these areas is that IG-SRT can treat awkwardly placed lesions (like in the fold of the nose or near the eye) that might be technically challenging for surgery, and it does so without needing grafts or stitching. Many dermatologists, including us, will strongly consider IG-SRT for facial lesions where cosmetic outcome is paramount and the patient is amenable. The cure rate is still over 99%, so we’re not trading effectiveness. Essentially, on the face and other visible areas, IG-SRT offers a way to cure the cancer with minimal cosmetic impact, making it an excellent choice for those locations.
One note: Both IG-SRT and Mohs can yield good cosmetic results, but Mohs leaves a scar (though often small). IG-SRT leaves potentially no scar but requires more visits. So some patients weigh those factors. But yes, to answer plainly, IG-SRT is a top choice for cosmetically sensitive sites if the patient prefers a non-surgical route.
