Do you need a referral for skin cancer surgery?

A referral gives the surgical team information about the suspicious or confirmed skin cancer, any biopsy result, medicines, allergies, and relevant medical history. Skin cancer surgery may involve removing the lesion with a margin of nearby skin, followed by stitches or another method of closing the wound. A dermatologic surgeon, dermatologist, or another appropriately trained surgeon can explain which approach fits the lesion’s site and type.

Some clinics accept a direct appointment request, while others ask for a referral from a dermatologist or primary-care clinician before booking. A referral requirement is an administrative pathway; it does not by itself confirm the diagnosis.

Contact the clinic where you hope to have the procedure and ask whether a referral is required. Have any biopsy report, photographs, previous treatment details, medication list, and contact information for the clinician who assessed the lesion available. If a biopsy has confirmed cancer, ask the referring clinician to send the report and specify the proposed treatment area.

Do not delay a recommended assessment while waiting for paperwork. If you are unsure who should refer you, the clinic can usually identify the correct starting point and tell you which records they need.

Seek prompt medical advice if the lesion is bleeding repeatedly, developing a rapidly changing border or colour, becoming increasingly painful, or producing persistent drainage. After surgery, contact the treating team promptly for worsening redness, swelling, pus, fever, bleeding that does not settle with pressure, or wound edges pulling apart.

Ask who should provide the referral, whether the biopsy report has been received, what type of surgery is being considered, how the wound may be closed, and which warning signs should trigger an urgent call.