What does skin cancer surgery treat?

A surgeon removes the visible cancer along with a planned margin of nearby skin. The removed tissue may be sent for laboratory examination to determine whether cancer cells reach the edges. The method depends on the cancer type, size, depth, position, and whether it has returned.

Surgery is commonly used for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Some melanomas are also treated with surgery, often after a biopsy has established the diagnosis. An operation may be the main treatment for a cancer confined to the skin, while deeper or spread disease may need additional care.

Bring details of medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, and previous reactions to anaesthetic. Ask how much skin may be removed, whether stitches or a skin graft could be needed, and how the wound will be cared for. Follow the clinic's instructions about washing the area and taking regular medicines.

A suspicious spot is often assessed before treatment, and a skin biopsy may guide the surgical plan. Do not pick at a scab or lesion while waiting for review; photograph changes and record bleeding, growth, colour change, or tenderness to discuss at the appointment.

After surgery, contact the team for bleeding that does not settle with firm pressure, increasing swelling, spreading redness, pus, fever, worsening pain, or a wound that opens. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, difficulty breathing, or sudden swelling of the face or throat.

Ask what type of skin cancer is being treated, whether the margins will be examined, and what reconstruction may be needed. Clarify the expected scar location, wound restrictions, pathology follow-up, and whether further treatment could be recommended.