15 Aug 2024 Skin Cancer Excision: The Procedure and What to Expect
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Australia (and indeed worldwide), with over a million cases diagnosed each year in Australia. Early detection and treatment are crucial. Treatment varies depending on the type of skin cancer and location, however most skin cancers require surgical intervention for complete removal. Dr Andre Safvat at Ethique Plastic Surgery performs skin cancer excision and reconstruction (when needed) very frequently. His extensive experience and meticulous approach ensure the successful removal of the skin cancer with the most optimal aesthetic outcome. Whether the procedure is big or small, patients get the same high standards and level of precision and care from Dr Safvat and the Ethique Plastic Surgery team.
Understanding Skin Cancer Excision
Skin cancer excision is a procedure where the cancerous or suspicious lesion is surgically removed with a margin of healthy tissue around it. The goal is to completely eliminate the cancerous cells while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This procedure is typically performed under either local anaesthetic and sedation in a hospital or local anaesthetic only in our Miranda (Sutherland Shire) or Bowral (Southern Highlands) rooms.
Why Skin Cancer Excision is Performed
Skin cancer excision is recommended for several reasons:
- Complete Removal: Excision ensures that all cancerous cells are removed along with a margin of healthy tissue to reduce the chance of cancer recurrence.
- Diagnostic Purposes: Excised tissue is sent for pathology analysis (biopsy) to confirm the type of skin cancer and confirmation of complete removal of the cancer.
- Aesthetic Outcome: Dr Safvat performs the procedure with a high level of skill and expertise as well as intricate suturing to ensure that scarring is minimised. He preserves as much healthy tissue as possible in order to achieve the best cosmetic result possible.
Types of Skin Cancers
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC’s are the most common type of skin cancer. BCC’s originate in the basal cells, which are located in the deepest layer of the epidermis (the upper part of the skin). BCC’s typically develop on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, neck, and hands. BCCs are considered the “good” skin cancer as it is relatively slow growing.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC’s are the second most common type of skin cancer. It arises from the squamous cells, which are found in the other part of the epidermis. SCC often develops on sun-exposed areas but can also occur on other parts of the body, including the mouth, lips, and genitals. They grow more rapidly than BCCs but not as aggressive as melanomas.
- Melanoma: Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, although it is less common than BCC and SCC. It develops from the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, including areas not typically exposed to the sun. Melanomas are fairly rapid growing and at Ethique Plastic Surgery we endeavour to see patients with melanomas urgently.
The Procedure
The procedure will be done in hospital with local anaesthetic and sedation, or in some cases it can be done under local anaesthetic only in our Miranda or Bowral rooms, Dr Safvat will advise which option is best for your individual needs.
Usually, excision of skin cancers is considered a minor procedure taking around 40-60 minutes to complete. In some cases, a flap or skin graft may be needed to reconstruct the area where the skin cancer was removed. This can extend the operation time as it is more complicated.
After the procedure you may have some mild discomfort and swelling, which is common and can be managed with over the counter pain medication. However, the usual feedback from patients is that they did not need to use much / any pain medications afterwards. Sutures will be removed within 1-2 weeks depending on the location of the lesion. Dr Safvat will provide you with his specific scar management protocol to follow, to give you the best possible outcome with your scar. Patients who follow his instructions well, report the best results.
Conclusion
Skin cancer excision is a highly effective treatment for removing skin cancers and precancerous lesions. When performed by a highly experienced Plastic Surgeon such as Dr Safvat. It offers patients the best chance of complete recovery with minimal scarring. If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, such as new growths, changes in size or colour of existing moles, or sores that don’t heal, it is essential to consult your GP promptly, who can then refer you to Dr Safvat if needed. Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes and prognosis for skin cancer patients.
Patients should discuss with their GP and Plastic Surgeon as to whether surgery is a good option for them. All surgery comes with risks which will be discussed during consultation. Your final results can take up to 12 months or more to be seen. Before proceeding, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
DR ANDRE SAFVAT (MED1155201)
Registered Medical Practitioner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery).