For the last two decades, the number of men seeking plastic surgery has steadily increased. The most common procedures men seek are typically liposuction, eyelid lifts, rhinoplasties, neck lifts, and injectable treatments like “Brotox” and dermal fillers. Despite men’s increasing interest in caring for their appearance, the most common procedure I perform on men in my practice is still skin cancer reconstruction.

According to the American Cancer Society, more people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer each year than all other types of cancers combined. Yet, these cancers disproportionately affect men. After 50, men have a higher risk of developing melanoma than women. By 65, their risk is double that of women; by 80, it triples. Men are more likely to die of melanoma than women, and men are less likely to be diagnosed at an early stage. A later-stage diagnosis significantly affects treatment options, success, the amount of skin that must be removed, and the extent of reconstruction required.

Why does skin cancer affect more men than women? We know that in general, men’s skin is different: it contains more collagen, is supported by less subcutaneous fat, and has a thicker dermis. It’s more susceptible to UV damage and less proficient at repair than women’s. Exacerbating that are the facts that men use less sunscreen and spend more time outside, often working and playing sports in the sun. Men typically have more skin exposed to the sun than women. They are more likely to have shorter or no hair and consequently have more skin cancer on the ears and scalp than women. Studies show that men are more likely to believe common misconceptions about sun exposure, such as thinking a base tan will protect them or that skin cancer can’t develop if they’re only in the sun for a short time. And in general, we know that men are less likely to go to the doctor and more likely to neglect their health, which means a later diagnosis if a problem arises.

So, what can men do to turn these numbers around?

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when staying outdoors.

• Stay in the shade as much as possible, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

• Wear long sleeves and long pants when outside as much as possible.

• Always apply a good sunscreen before leaving the house. At our office, we carry several sunscreens that our male patients love! Elta MD UV Sport is a great SPF 50+ sunscreen that our more active patients appreciate for its water- and sweat-resistant formulation. Alastin Silkshield is an all-mineral, lightweight sunscreen that goes on sheer and absorbs quickly. And Elta MD UV Clear is an excellent option for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Using an SPF of 30 or higher on a daily basis decreases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 40% and malignant melanoma by 50%.

• Practice monthly skin self-exams or ask a partner to help you! While skin cancer most commonly arises on the trunk, head, and neck in men, some lesions develop in places less exposed to the sun. Men of color, especially, are more prone to melanoma on the palms, soles, mucous membranes, and nail beds, and should regularly check those areas.

• See a board-certified dermatology provider for an annual skin cancer screening.

Sarah Hammond, MD, is a board-certified plastic reconstructive surgeon specializing in aesthetic and complex reconstructive procedures. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Plasticsurgeryrestore.com or call 901.306.4204.

By Sarah Hammond, MD