Surgical procedures

Biopsy

Several cutaneous lesions may mimic skin cancers. Your doctor may perform a biopsy before committing to more invasive surgeries. When the skin cancer is located on a cosmetic sensitive area ie. face, it is important to confirm the diagnosis of skin cancer and the subtype of skin cancer. In many cases , melanoma can not be ruled out on clinical and dermoscopy examination alone. When melanoma is suspected, it is essential to perform a biopsy for histopathological examination.

Types of biopsy: shave, punch, incisional biopsies and excisional biopsy

Curretage and Cautery (C&C)

Some superficial skin cancers can be removed by curettes, a small spoon with sharp edges. The cancerous skin comes off easier than the surrounding healthy skin.

C&C is an excellent way of removing age spots and sun spots, often leaving less scarring than excisions.

Dermatological Surgery

Currently the gold standard treatment of invasive skin cancers and melanoma is surgery.

Surgery will depend on the type, size and location of the skin cancer and patient’s factors. Your doctor will carefully design the surgery and closure and will discuss the plan with you first. The outcome of the surgery is to remove the cancer entirely, preserve function as well as achieving the best possible cosmetic result.

Wound care and scar management

Careful wound care will reduce infection risk and assist the wound healing process. Good wound scar management can minimise scarring post op.

Our highly experienced RN will assist you.

See your doctor if: