Melanoma skin cancer surgery

The operation is planned around the lesion's position, size, depth, and the condition of the surrounding skin. A surgeon may remove the lesion in one piece and send it for examination. The report can describe the tumour and whether the edges are clear, helping the team decide if more local treatment is needed.

Melanoma is different from other common skin cancers because its depth and spread can affect the next stage of care. [Basal Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/) and [Squamous Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/squamous-cell-carcinoma/) have different patterns and are not interchangeable diagnoses.

Give the surgical team a complete medicine list, including products that can increase bleeding, and mention allergies or previous problems with anaesthesia. Afterward, protect the dressing as instructed, keep scheduled wound reviews, and limit pulling or heavy activity until cleared. Scar care begins only when the wound has closed and the clinician recommends it. Read more about [Skin Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-cancer-surgery/).

Seek advice for persistent bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, severe or escalating pain, fever, pus, spreading redness, or a wound that opens. Also report a firm lump, bleeding spot, or new changing mark near the scar or elsewhere. Contact the surgical service urgently if you feel faint or the wound is soaking through its dressing.

Ask what the operation is intended to remove, whether a margin or second procedure may be needed, how the wound will close, and how long pathology takes. Ask whether nearby lymph nodes need assessment and which symptoms should trigger a call after discharge.