Non-surgical skin cancer treatment in Owings Mills, MD
GentleCure™ Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT) is a breakthrough, non-surgical treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers. Now available exclusively at Dermatology Laser Center & MediSpa, GentleCure uses precisely targeted, low-energy X-rays guided by real-time ultrasound to destroy cancer cells while protecting surrounding healthy skin. If you’ve been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma in situ, GentleCure offers an effective alternative to surgery—with no cutting, no stitches, and no surgical scarring.
Only provider of GentleCure in Baltimore and surrounding counties.
What is GentleCure?
GentleCure is an FDA-cleared image-guided superficial radiation therapy device designed specifically to treat non-melanoma skin cancers. The system uses low-energy X-rays delivered through a specialized wand, with real-time ultrasound imaging to pinpoint cancer depth and borders. This allows Dr. Snyder to customize each treatment with precision, destroying malignant cells while preserving healthy tissue and natural appearance.
Unlike traditional surgical excision, which requires cutting, sutures, and often leaves visible scarring, GentleCure is completely non-invasive and painless.
What skin cancers does GentleCure treat?
GentleCure is effective for non-melanoma skin cancers, including:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)—the most common type of skin cancer
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)—the second most common type
- Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen’s disease)—early-stage SCC confined to the skin surface
If you’re concerned about a new or changing spot on your skin, schedule a dermatology consultation with Dr. Snyder for diagnosis and treatment options.
Why choose GentleCure over surgical skin cancer treatment?
No surgical excision, no scarring, no recovery downtime. GentleCure offers distinct advantages over traditional surgery:
- No cutting or stitches—completely non-invasive
- No surgical scarring—preserves natural appearance of treated area
- No reconstructive surgery required—unlike larger surgical excisions
- Painless treatment—minimal discomfort during sessions
- 99%+ cure rate—highly effective at eliminating cancer
- 99%+ patient satisfaction—based on clinical data
- Customized therapy—ultrasound guidance ensures precise targeting
- See results on ultrasound—watch your skin cancer shrink at each visit
- Continue daily activities—no downtime, no activity restrictions
- Multiple cancers treated in one visit—can treat up to three skin cancers simultaneously
- Most insurances accepted—ask about coverage during your consultation
How does GentleCure work?
During your GentleCure treatment:
- Ultrasound imaging—Dr. Snyder uses ultrasound to visualize the cancer’s exact size, shape, and depth
- Precise targeting—the treatment area is customized based on ultrasound findings
- X-ray delivery—a specialized handheld wand delivers low-energy X-rays to the cancerous tissue
- Cancer cell destruction—radiation damages cancer cell DNA, preventing growth and proliferation
- Healthy tissue preservation—the focused beam minimizes exposure to surrounding non-cancerous skin
GentleCure is the only skin cancer treatment that uses ultrasound imaging during every treatment, allowing real-time customization and ensuring complete cancer elimination while maximizing cosmetic outcome.
How long is a GentleCure treatment?
Most GentleCure treatment sessions last 15-30 minutes, depending on the size and number of lesions being treated. You can have up to three skin cancers treated in a single appointment, making it convenient and efficient. Sessions are performed in our office with no anesthesia required.
How many GentleCure treatments will I need?
The number of GentleCure treatments depends on your cancer type, size, and location. Most patients require 3-6 weekly treatments. Dr. Snyder will determine your personalized treatment plan during your initial consultation and will monitor your progress using ultrasound at each visit. You’ll see visible shrinkage of your skin cancer throughout treatment.
What is the cure rate for GentleCure?
GentleCure has a 99%+ cure rate for non-melanoma skin cancers when used as directed. Clinical data shows excellent long-term control and minimal recurrence. Dr. Snyder will discuss your individual prognosis based on your specific diagnosis, cancer characteristics, and treatment response.
What is the recovery time for GentleCure?
Zero downtime. GentleCure requires no recovery period. You can:
- Return to work immediately
- Resume all daily activities right away
- Continue all medications (no restrictions)
- Shower and bathe normally
- Expose the treated area to water and normal washing
The only temporary effect you may notice is mild redness, which typically fades within hours to a few days.
Are there side effects from GentleCure treatment?
GentleCure has minimal side effects:
- Temporary redness—usually fades within hours to 2-3 days
- Mild swelling—occasionally occurs, resolves quickly
- Temporary tenderness—the treated area may feel slightly sensitive
- Dry skin—temporary, managed with gentle moisturizer
Serious complications are extremely rare with GentleCure. Dr. Snyder will discuss all possible effects and any precautions during your consultation.
Can GentleCure treat skin cancer on the face, ears, or other visible areas?
Yes. GentleCure is especially valuable for treating skin cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas—face, ears, nose, lips, hands, and scalp. Because there’s no cutting or scarring, the treated area heals with its natural appearance preserved. This makes GentleCure ideal for cancers in highly visible locations where surgical scarring would be noticeable.
Is GentleCure painful?
GentleCure is painless. Most patients report no pain during treatment. You may feel a slight warmth or mild tingling, but these sensations are minimal and well-tolerated. No anesthesia or numbing is required, though Dr. Snyder can discuss comfort options if desired.
Is GentleCure covered by insurance?
Most major insurance plans cover GentleCure for medically necessary treatment of skin cancer. Since skin cancer is a medical condition (not cosmetic), insurance typically provides coverage. However, coverage varies by plan. During your consultation, we’ll verify your specific insurance coverage and discuss any out-of-pocket costs before beginning treatment.
Who should consider GentleCure?
GentleCure is ideal for patients who have:
- Been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or SCC in situ
- Skin cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas (face, ears, hands)
- Desire a non-surgical treatment option
- Preference for no scarring and no downtime
- Wish to continue normal activities throughout treatment
- Multiple skin cancers requiring simultaneous treatment
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Snyder to determine if GentleCure is right for your diagnosis.
Is GentleCure FDA-approved for skin cancer?
Yes. GentleCure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It has undergone rigorous clinical testing and meets all safety and effectiveness requirements for medical device approval.
How does GentleCure compare to surgical excision?
Both GentleCure and surgical excision are effective at treating skin cancer. The main differences are: GentleCure is non-invasive (no cutting), requires no stitches, leaves no surgical scar, requires no downtime, and can treat multiple cancers in one visit. Surgical excision is more invasive, may leave a scar, requires sutures, and has recovery time. Dr. Snyder will recommend the best option for your specific cancer.
Can GentleCure be used if I’ve had previous skin cancer treatment?
In many cases, yes. If you’ve been treated for skin cancer in the past and a new lesion has developed, GentleCure may be an appropriate option. Dr. Snyder will evaluate your medical history and current lesion to determine the best treatment approach.
What happens if the skin cancer comes back after GentleCure?
Recurrence is rare with GentleCure (less than 1%), but if a treated area shows signs of cancer returning, Dr. Snyder can retreat with GentleCure or discuss alternative options. Regular skin checks help catch any new or recurrent lesions early.
Can I use GentleCure if I have multiple skin cancers?
Yes. GentleCure can treat up to three skin cancers in a single treatment session, making it efficient and convenient if you have multiple lesions. This is a significant advantage over surgical options, where treating multiple cancers typically requires multiple procedures.
How long do GentleCure results last?
GentleCure results are permanent for the treated cancer. Once a skin cancer is eliminated, it does not return in that location. However, like all patients with a history of skin cancer, you should continue regular skin checks and sun protection to prevent new skin cancers from developing elsewhere.
When can I see results from GentleCure?
You’ll see visible signs of improvement during treatment—the skin cancer visibly shrinks with each ultrasound imaging session. Most patients see significant improvement within 2-3 weeks of starting treatment, with complete healing typically within 6-8 weeks after final treatment.
Schedule your GentleCure consultation in Owings Mills
If you’ve been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma in situ, discover how GentleCure can eliminate your skin cancer without surgery, scarring, or downtime. Dr. Steven Barry Snyder is the only provider of GentleCure in Baltimore and surrounding counties.
Call (410) 356-0000 or visit laserdocmd.com to schedule your consultation. We accept most major insurance plans and will verify coverage before your first treatment.
Ready to treat your skin cancer without surgery?
GentleCure offers a safe, effective, non-surgical option for non-melanoma skin cancer with no scarring and no downtime. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Snyder today.