Blog

A benign keratin-filled cyst under the skin that may have a central punctum and can become inflamed,
By Thomas Hocker, MD June 4, 2026
Kansas City surgeon guide to epidermoid cyst removal, inflamed cysts, recurrence, pathology, cost, and recovery at Advanced Dermatologic Surgery.
Pigmented dermatofibroma on the lower leg showing a firm, brown skin lesion
By Thomas Hocker, MD May 20, 2026
Learn when a firm brown dermatofibroma can be watched, when biopsy or excision is safer, and how scar planning matters on the lower leg
A person in a dark top and wide-brimmed hat holds a textured fabric against a clear blue sky.
By Thomas Hocker, MD May 5, 2026
Mineral vs chemical sunscreen explained by a dermatologist. Learn which option offers better protection, what SPF really means, and how to choose the best sunscreen for skin cancer prevention.
A medical professional in gloves holds a scalpel above a sterile tray with surgical tools.
By Thomas Hocker, MD April 28, 2026
Comprehensive guide to surgical dermatology, including Mohs surgery, biopsies, and skin cancer treatment by Dr. Thomas Hocker at Advanced Dermatologic Surgery.
A person applying sunscreen to their neck in an outdoor, blurred natural setting.
By Thomas Hocker, MD April 21, 2026
Discover the most common sun protection mistakes that increase skin cancer risk. Learn what most people get wrong and how to protect your skin with a simple dermatologist recommended approach.
A person holds a small dollop of white sunscreen on their palm, with out-of-focus legs and sandy surroundings.
By Thomas Hocker, MD April 13, 2026
Discover the best sun protection strategy from a high-volume skin cancer surgeon. Learn why sunscreen alone isn't enough and how to reduce your risk with a proven four-layer approach that includessunscreen clothing hats and supplements.
Dr. Thomas Hocker performing Mohs surgery.
By Thomas Hocker, MD March 19, 2026
High melanoma Mohs volume improves survival. Learn why surgeon experience matters, how outcomes compare, and what to ask before melanoma surgery.
Dr. Hocker, wearing a mask, is performing Mohs surgery on a patient seated in a chair.
By Thomas Hocker, MD March 11, 2026
Compare Mohs surgery and plastic surgery for treating skin cancer. Understand reconstruction options, surgical workflow, and the benefits of same-surgeon care.
Skin Cancer
By Thomas Hocker, MD February 25, 2026
Organ transplant recipients face a dramatically higher risk of skin cancer. Learn why early detection and expert care matter.
Microscope on a lab countertop, second microscope blurred in background.
By Thomas Hocker, MD February 18, 2026
Learn why squamous cell carcinoma becomes the most dangerous skin cancer for transplant recipients and how expert care helps.