Ear melanoma surgery: what to know

The ear has a visible, structurally complex shape, so the surgeon plans removal around the melanoma’s position, depth, and edges. The removed tissue is examined to confirm the diagnosis and whether the margins are clear. Some people also need assessment of nearby lymph nodes, such as a sentinel lymph node biopsy, when the pathology suggests it could help staging. Reconstruction may be discussed if removal leaves a larger defect.

Bring a list of medicines, allergies, previous skin cancers, and any change noticed in the lesion. Follow instructions about washing, dressings, sun protection, and activity after the procedure. Keep follow-up appointments so pathology can be explained and the wound checked. Depending on stage and pathology, the team may discuss further skin cancer surgery, tumour removal surgery, immunotherapy, or structured surveillance. Do not apply unapproved products to the wound.

Contact the surgical team promptly for increasing bleeding, wound separation, spreading redness, pus, fever, severe pain, or new facial weakness. During follow-up, report a new lump, persistent swelling, a changing mark near the scar, or symptoms such as unexplained headaches or weakness. These symptoms do not identify a cause by themselves, but they need medical assessment.

Ask how much tissue may be removed, whether lymph-node staging is recommended, how the ear will be repaired, when pathology will return, and what follow-up schedule or additional treatment is appropriate.