Blog Archive

We can inherit many things from our parents, from hair and eye color to more concerning issues like susceptibility to a medical condition, such as skin cancer. Fortunately, there are proactive ways to protect your health. At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer diagnoses and treats...

We're all familiar with common blemishes like acne and moles. However, these aren't the only problems that can affect our skin. For example, a red, scaly patch can have many causes, including skin cancer. As a certified complex general surgical oncologist, Dr. Trevan Fischer diagnoses and treats multiple types of...

Moles may seem like nothing more than an annoying blemish. However, they should receive particular attention due to their ability to become cancerous. Fortunately, knowing the signs to watch for can ensure early detection and a better prognosis. Dr. Trevan Fischer, a certified complex general surgical oncologist, treats a variety...

Merkel cell carcinoma is one of the lesser-known types of skin cancer. However, its aggressive nature makes it important to know the signs to watch for. As with other kinds of cancer, the earlier it is caught and treated, the better the prognosis. As an experienced complex general surgical oncologist...

If you've found a lump in your breast, it's natural to fear it’s cancer. That is especially true since about one in three new cases of cancer in women each year are located in the breast. The good news is that 60-80% of these masses are benign. Many causes of...

Any cancer diagnosis is scary. However, this is particularly true for melanoma — the deadliest type of skin cancer. Fortunately, treatment is available, including surgery known as wide local excision. As a specialist in complex general surgical oncology, Dr. Trevan Fischer uses state-of-the-art techniques to diagnose and treat various cancers,...

While hearing you need surgery is never wanted news, it doesn’t have to be something to fear. Minimally invasive procedures are often performed in place of traditional surgery.  At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer, a specialist in complex general surgical oncology and researcher on clinical...

It's easy to take our digestion — and the organs that aid it — for granted until there is a problem. Gallstones and the often necessary removal of the gallbladder is one example. Fortunately, minimally invasive surgical methods can provide multiple benefits. Through his work in private practice in Santa...

All skin cancers have one thing in common — the earlier they are caught, the better the prognosis. However, skin cancers differ in their symptoms and treatments.  Fortunately, you can learn what to look for and when to see a dermatologist for diagnosis if anything looks different or suspicious. At...

When you think of skin cancer, you may envision an abnormal mole. But this isn't the only type of blemish that can indicate a problem — and melanoma isn't the only type of serious skin cancer. Merkel cell carcinoma may not be well known, but it is aggressive. Fortunately, knowing...

Everyone has heard of breast cancer, skin cancer, colon cancer, and more. However, there is another type of cancer that isn’t as familiar — soft tissue sarcoma. This relatively rare condition presents as lumps in tissues surrounding bones and organs.  At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan...

Many people think of cancer as an older person's disease. With the median age of diagnosis coming at 66 years old, there is some truth to this belief. However, cancer can strike at any age. Melanoma, one of the most common types of cancer in young adults, is a perfect...

We all know too much sun is harmful for our skin and puts us at higher risk for cancer. What we may not realize is all skin cancers are not the same. Each has a unique appearance, common locations, prevalence, and more. Squamous cell carcinoma is one example. At his...

We've all heard the saying we are what we eat. It turns out our health is also what we poop. Many of us are quick to flush when our business is done, but a periodic examination of our stool can give clues about our bodies.  When it comes to cancer...

No one likes undergoing surgery, but it is often necessary for hernias. Fortunately, with its state-of-the-art tools and video equipment, minimally invasive surgery makes the procedure easier and recovery faster than traditional open surgery.  As a complex general surgical oncologist, Dr. Trevan Fischer performs a variety of minimally invasive surgeries...

When most women think of breast concerns, cancer typically tops the list. However, it's not the only health issue that can affect this part of the body. Cysts can also cause discomfort and distress. Typically, they are benign, but they can occasionally be cancerous. At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr....

Many people believe they know what to look for when checking for skin cancer. Often their strategy includes looking at moles and birthmarks for the "ABCDE" test. However, that approach is only helpful in spotting melanoma — other types of skin cancer present differently, including basal cell carcinoma. Dr. Trevan...

For people with certain cancers — mainly breast and melanoma — an initial determination may not be the final step in getting a complete diagnosis. Frequently, a sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed to determine whether it has spread. As an experienced complex general surgical oncologist in private practice in...

No one wants to learn they need surgery. Fortunately, with minimally invasive surgical techniques, many procedures are now easier and less intrusive than ever. At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer uses his specialized skills in complex general surgical oncology to perform a variety of minimally invasive procedures. In addition, through his...

Skin cancer is the most common type in the United States, but it is also one of the easiest to reduce your risk. In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, let's focus on ways to keep your skin healthy and avoid melanoma. Dr. Trevan Fischer, a board-certified expert in complex general surgical oncology, employs...

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and it strikes more people than all other cancers combined. Almost 10,000 people each day are diagnosed, and more than two people die from it every hour. With statistics like these, the importance of avoiding skin cancer...

No one looks forward to gallbladder surgery. The good news is minimally invasive procedures allow for removal with less discomfort and a faster recovery. As a certified general surgeon and surgical oncologist, Dr. Trevan Fischer employs state-of-the-art techniques, including minimally invasive surgeries at his private practice in Santa Monica, California. He treats a variety of issues ranging from...

We all know avoiding the sun and wearing sunscreen are two essential steps we can take to avoid skin cancer. But did you know that taking the vitamin nicotinamide may also help when it comes to reducing the risk of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma? At his private...

Because one in five Americans will get skin cancer by the time they're 70 years old, it's no wonder people are concerned. Even so, while they may realize the prevalence and seriousness of this illness, many may not fully appreciate the significant role that sun exposure plays as a risk...

We've all heard the saying "you are what you eat" regarding our health. The good news is it doesn't just apply to our hearts or digestion. Positive eating habits can also make our skin look and feel its best. At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, surgical oncologist Dr. Trevan Fischer can help...

Many people probably think they're quite knowledgeable about skin cancer. They wear sunscreen, check for abnormal moles, and figure they're good to go. However, there is more to know about melanoma, including the fact that the number of deaths from this serious type of cancer is expected to rise by 6.5% in...

Given the fact skin cancer is the most common type in the United States, it's natural people might worry about their odds of receiving this diagnosis. While it's impossible to determine an individual's exact risk, some factors can make it more likely. No one wants to hear their chances are...

No one wants to be a statistic — especially not the one person out of five who will get skin cancer by the time they're 70 years old. Fortunately, there are things you can do now to prevent basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma later. Dr. Trevan Fischer...

Many people think the glow of tan skin is a sign of vitality and health. In reality, the opposite is true — ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages the skin and increases your risk of skin cancer. At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer provides exceptional care by combining state-of-the-art surgical techniques...

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer — it is diagnosed more frequently than all other kinds together. Like all cancer, the sooner it is detected and treated, the better the prognosis. Performing a skin self-exam regularly can help catch it early before it progresses. As a complex general surgical oncologist, Dr....

Harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds can damage the skin, eyes, and immune system, as well as cause cancer. With that in mind, there is no truly safe way to get a traditional tan, though there are steps you can take to make the process a...

Most people know getting too much sun can increase their risk of skin cancer. However, there is much more to skin cancer than many people realize. In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, here are some less well-known facts and statistics. Dr. Trevan Fischer is well-versed in skin cancer and its...

Of the many types of skin cancer, melanoma gets the greatest amount of attention because it is the most deadly. Basal cell carcinoma is usually next due to being the most common. However, it's essential to understand squamous cell skin cancer, which if not caught early, can become disfiguring and potentially life-threatening....

Most people know the dangers of skin cancer and the importance of wearing sunscreen. What everyone may not know, however, is how to spot a suspect mole after melanoma has developed. Fortunately, there are a few easy tricks to help you remember what to look for. At his private practice,...

Many people think of the skin as no more than the body's covering, but there is much more to know about our largest organ. For example, just the outer layer alone consists of three different types of cells. That is important to know since each can develop a unique type...

People fear melanoma for many reasons including the fact that it causes the majority of skin cancer deaths and its rates have been rising. However, the good news is when it's caught early, it is not only treatable but often curable. At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr....

Most people realize the dangers of too much sun exposure when they're at a summer picnic or enjoying a day at the beach. What many may not appreciate, however, is that the sun can be just as dangerous during the winter months. Fortunately, continuing good sun safety habits all year...

While soft tissue sarcoma may not get the same amount of attention as other types of cancer, it is still essential to know its symptoms and to take them seriously. Like with all cancers, catching it early and getting the right treatment can provide the best possible outcome. At his...

When a woman feels something unusual in her breast, it's natural for her to worry that it's cancer. Fortunately, that's not always the case. Benign lumps known as fibroadenomas are one example of a harmless breast condition. At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, and through his research and...

While no one likes marks or blemishes on their skin — especially not moles that can lead to cancer — they are a fact of life, with most people having anywhere from 10 to 40. The good news is while moles can develop into melanoma, there are signs to watch...

Everyone knows that too much sun can lead to a sunburn, but did you know that it can also impact everything from appearance to overall health? Fortunately, some simple steps can reduce its impact while still allowing people to enjoy the great outdoors. At his private practice in Santa Monica,...

While too much exposure to the sun's damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to skin cancer, it is not the only risk factor. Several things, from genetics to lifestyle choices and more, can increase one's chances. Knowing your situation can help inform your behavior over the factors you can control....

Most people know the risk of skin cancer increases with exposure to damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds. What some may not realize, however, is all skin cancers are not the same. In fact, there are three main kinds as well as several other less frequently...

When people hear a diagnosis of skin cancer — particularly when the type is melanoma — they worry about what it means for their health and future. Fortunately, when caught early, this serious cancer has a five-year survival rate of 99%.  There are a number of treatment options available for...

A melanoma diagnosis can be frightening. Although it’s relatively uncommon — accounting for just 1% of skin cancers — it results in a large portion of skin cancer deaths.  Fortunately, there are a number of treatment options available, including immunotherapy. Through his private practice in Santa Monica, California, and work...

The names of most cancers make it easy to identify their location. Breast cancer is found in the breast, prostate cancer in the prostate, and pancreatic cancer in the pancreas. Soft tissue sarcoma, however, isn’t quite as simple to classify, nor is it limited to one place. Santa Monica, California-based...

While perhaps not the most well-known health issue, gallbladder disease shouldn't be ignored. It often causes sudden, intense pain and frequently requires treatment in the hospital. Some people may need surgery.  At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, general surgeon and surgical oncologist  Dr. Trevan Fischer performs minimally invasive...

Finding a lump in your breast is naturally concerning, with the fear of breast cancer likely being top of mind. But many lumps, including those caused by benign breast disease, are non-cancerous. Half of all women have breast lumps at some point due to fibrocystic breast changes from fluctuating hormone...

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States and is diagnosed more often than all other cancers combined. It will strike one in five Americans by the time they turn 70, and people in sunny Santa Monica, California, can be particularly at risk. Fortunately, there...

Some types of cancer — like breast, colon, skin, and lung — get a lot of attention, while others receive far less press.  You may not have heard of soft tissue sarcoma, for example, despite the fact it strikes over 13,000 people in the United States each year and can...

Skin cancer may not be on the top of many people's minds, but it should be as it's the most common type of cancer in the United States. It is estimated to affect one in five people at some point in their lifetimes and the rates are increasing. Fortunately, skin...

Most people understand the importance of protecting their skin from the sun, especially given the fact that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in both the United States and around the world. What you may not realize, however, is that in addition to protecting yourself from the...

There's no doubt finding a lump and suspecting cancer can be scary. Fortunately, you don't have to go through the diagnosis and possible treatment alone. Your cancer surgeon can play a crucial role in helping you navigate everything from a biopsy to a surgical procedure.  Whether your health problem involves...

Finding a lump in your breast is naturally concerning, but it's important not to jump to the worst case scenario. While you may fear cancer, there are a number of other possible noncancerous explanations. At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer uses the latest surgical techniques...

Everyone knows the importance of wearing sunscreen and avoiding UV rays when possible. While these actions can help decrease your chance of skin cancer they can't eliminate it completely. That's why it's important to examine your skin regularly and know the signs of the different types of skin cancer. Dr....

Summer means days at the beach, outdoor excercising, and lazy afternoons by the pool. If you're not careful, it can also mean skin damage from the sun.  Damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause everything from a sunburn to skin cancer. They can also leave your skin looking...

Most people want to ignore imperfections like moles on their skin, but looking more closely at these blemishes could end up saving your life. At his practice in Santa Monica, California, and through his work in clinical trials at the John Wayne Cancer Institute and as an assistant program director...

You've found a lump in your breast. Now what? While your mind may jump to the worst case scenario — breast cancer — there are a variety of other less serious causes, including a fibroadenoma. In addition to his work in clinical practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer...

With skin cancer's rank as the number one type of cancer in the United States, is it any wonder everyone wants to know how to prevent it? The good news is there are things you can do to decrease your risk of getting skin cancer. Here at the office of Trevan...

Have you noticed an unusual growth on your body? It could be nothing, but knowing for sure that the growth is benign and noncancerous is essential for a long and healthy life. Soft tissue sarcoma only accounts for a small percentage of cancers across the board, but it can be...

Breast cancer is considered one of the three deadliest cancers in women. Understanding your risk factors can help you live your healthiest life. A risk factor is something that increases your chances of developing a condition. According to Harvard Medical School, having a risk factor (or several) for breast cancer doesn't...

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can quickly move to other parts of the body if not caught early. It occurs when something goes wrong in the melanin-producing cells that give your skin its color. Knowing how to detect signs of melanoma can lead to early diagnosis and...