Beverly Hills Dermatology
Skin Cancer Screening & Treatment in Beverly Hills
Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist — with same-day biopsy when indicated and pathology results in five business days.
- Verified Reviews
- 792
- Overall Rating
- 4.77★
- Bedside Manner
- 4.84★
- Years in Practice
- 20+
Overview
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and outcomes depend heavily on how early it is found. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type and is typically slow-growing and locally destructive, presenting as a pearly papule, a non-healing sore, or a scaly patch. Squamous cell carcinoma often arises in sun-damaged skin — frequently from a preceding actinic keratosis — as a firm, scaly, or tender lesion, and carries a greater potential to metastasize. Melanoma is less common but the most dangerous, and is evaluated using the ABCDE criteria: asymmetry, border irregularity, color variegation, diameter greater than 6 mm, and evolution over time.
Dr. Zaks performs skin examinations personally; whether the exam is focused or more comprehensive is based on the reason for your visit and your history. When a lesion is suspicious and time and authorization allow, biopsy can be performed the same day, during the same visit. Specimens are read by board-certified dermatopathologists and results are typically available within five business days. Dr. Zaks then treats or coordinates definitive treatment based on the diagnosis, tumor type, and location. Screening and biopsy are covered by most major PPO plans and Medicare.
What Is Evaluated
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
The most common skin cancer. Typically a pearly or translucent papule, a non-healing sore, or a scaly pink patch. Slow-growing and locally destructive.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Often arises in sun-damaged skin, sometimes from a preceding actinic keratosis. Presents as a firm, scaly, or tender lesion with greater metastatic potential than BCC.
Melanoma
Evaluated with the ABCDE criteria — asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter over 6 mm, and evolution. Early detection is decisive.
Atypical (Dysplastic) Nevi
Moles with irregular clinical or histologic features. Some are biopsied; others are photographed and monitored on a defined interval.
Actinic Keratoses
Precancerous scaly lesions from cumulative UV damage, treated to prevent progression to squamous cell carcinoma.
Same-Day Biopsy
Shave, punch, or excisional biopsy performed during the same visit, chosen based on the lesion and the diagnostic question.
The Treatment Experience
Skin exam
Dr. Zaks examines the areas relevant to your concern and, when indicated based on your history and risk factors, performs a more complete skin check. He reviews your personal and family history of skin cancer and lifetime sun exposure.
Lesion assessment
Concerning lesions are examined closely and documented for comparison at future visits.
Same-day biopsy when indicated
Under local anesthesia, a shave, punch, or excisional biopsy is performed during the same visit. The technique is selected based on the suspected diagnosis and site.
Results and treatment plan
Pathology results are typically available within five business days. Dr. Zaks reviews the diagnosis with you and either treats the lesion or coordinates definitive treatment, including surgical referral when appropriate.
When to Be Seen Promptly
- A new or changing mole, particularly one that is asymmetric, has irregular borders, or contains multiple colors.
- A sore or scab that does not heal within a few weeks, or that heals and reopens.
- A lesion that bleeds spontaneously, itches persistently, or is tender.
- Any new spot that looks different from your other spots — the so-called 'ugly duckling' sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will I get biopsy results?
Pathology results are typically available within five business days. Dr. Zaks reviews them with you and outlines the next step.
Can the biopsy be done at the same visit?
Yes. When a lesion is suspicious and time and authorization allow, biopsy can often be performed the same day under local anesthesia.
Does a biopsy leave a scar?
Any biopsy leaves some mark. Dr. Zaks selects the least invasive technique that will still answer the diagnostic question, and gives you specific wound care instructions to optimize healing.
Is skin cancer screening covered by insurance?
Yes — screening and biopsy are medical services covered by most major PPO plans and Medicare. Our office will verify your benefits before your visit.
How often should I be screened?
Annually for most adults, and more often for patients with a personal or family history of skin cancer, numerous or atypical moles, or significant lifetime sun exposure.
Do I need a referral?
You don't if you have PPO or Medicare. You do if you have Regal or Lakeside HMO plans.
What happens if the biopsy shows cancer?
Dr. Zaks explains the diagnosis and the treatment options for that specific tumor type and location, then either treats it or coordinates definitive treatment, including surgical referral when that is the right choice.
Patient Reviews
“I have been going to Dr. Zaks for over 4 years. His outstanding skill, great bedside manner, warm personality, and artistry with Botox make me come back again and again!”
“I had Rosacea on my face for over 10 years. Dr. Zaks quickly reduced this embarrassing condition. Nobody else could help me. He's the best Dermatologist in LA hands down!”
“Dr. Zaks did not rush and he gave me 100% attention. He did not try to sell me product or convince me to try aggressive procedures which I appreciated.”
“Doctor took the time to explain the technical aspects of my condition, the treatment options and the expectations.”
About Dr. Boris Zaks, MD
Dr. Boris Zaks personally performs every procedure at Superior Beverly Hills Dermatology — never rotating assistants. He has practiced dermatology in Beverly Hills for more than twenty years.
- Board Certified — American Board of Dermatology (since 2002)
- Medical Degree — UCLA School of Medicine
- Chief Resident — Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science
- B.S. Biology — UCLA, Summa Cum Laude (age 19)
- Medical Board of California Expert Reviewer since 2009
- Super Doctors® 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 & 2027 (Southern California)
- "Rock Star Dermatologist" — Glamour Magazine
Schedule Your Consultation
435 N. Roxbury Drive, Suite 408, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · Monday–Friday · (310) 552-3376
Paid parking on-site, or free 2-hour parking at 461 N. Bedford Drive Garage, 1 block away
Areas Served
Patients seek Skin Cancer Screening & Treatment at Dr. Zaks’s Beverly Hills office from throughout greater Los Angeles: West Hollywood, Bel Air, Brentwood, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Westwood, Century City, Culver City, Marina del Rey, Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Torrance, Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Irvine.