How effective is surgical excision for melanoma?

A clinician removes the visible melanoma with a margin of nearby normal-looking skin. The specimen is examined to measure features such as depth and to check whether the edges are clear. A further operation may be recommended to widen the margin after the first diagnostic removal. The wound may need stitches, a flap or a graft depending on the site and amount of skin removed.

Excision treats the known skin lesion; it does not by itself assess every part of the body. Your team may discuss examination of nearby lymph nodes, scans or additional treatment when the pathology suggests a higher risk of spread. Read more about [Melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/) and [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/).

Keep the biopsy and surgery appointments, and bring a list of medicines, allergies and previous skin cancers. Ask how the pathology report will guide the margin and whether another procedure is needed. Protect the healing wound as instructed, avoid activities that pull on it, and attend every review. Once your clinician shows you how, check your skin and lymph-node areas regularly for new or changing findings.

Call the surgical team for persistent bleeding, wound separation, increasing warmth or redness, pus, fever or worsening pain. Arrange prompt medical review for a changing pigmented spot, a sore that does not heal, or a new firm lump near a treated area. Do not wait for routine follow-up if you notice new symptoms and have not yet received the pathology plan.

Ask: What does the pathology report show? Is the first excision enough, or is a wider margin recommended? Do I need lymph-node assessment or imaging? How will the scar be closed and cared for? Which changes should prompt an earlier appointment, and how often should my skin be checked?