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Surgery for Skin Cancer
Surgery for skin cancer involves the removal of cancerous cells or tissue from the skin. It is one of the most common and effective treatments for many types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and some melanomas.
Why is surgery for skin cancer performed?
The goal of skin cancer surgery is to remove the cancer completely while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Your plastic surgeon will recommend surgery to remove the skin cancer and reduce the risk of it spreading or returning.
The decision to operate depends on the type, size, location, and depth of the cancer, as well as your overall health.
Early removal can often prevent more extensive treatment later.
What's Involved in Surgery for Skin Cancer?
The surgery is usually done under local anaesthetic, although general anaesthetic may be required for larger or more complex cases.
Your plastic surgeon will remove the cancerous skin along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete excision (wide local excision).
In some cases, a skin graft or flap may be necessary to repair the area after the cancer is removed. The removed tissue will be sent to a laboratory for further examination to confirm that all cancer cells have been excised.
Before & After Your Procedure
What to know before your procedure and how to support your recovery.
Your plastic surgeon will be happy to answer your questions and support you through the process, helping you understand the surgery, recovery, and what to expect at every stage.