What happens before skin cancer surgery?

The clinician reviews the biopsy report or other diagnostic information, checks the exact location and measures the visible lesion. They ask about previous skin cancers, immune conditions, bleeding, allergies and medicines. The discussion covers how much tissue may need removal, whether the wound can be closed directly, and whether reconstruction or further treatment could be needed. A mark or photograph may document the site so the correct area is treated. The final pathology from removed tissue can guide follow-up.

Bring your biopsy details, medicine list and information about allergies or past anaesthesia reactions. Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, diabetes, immune suppression, an implanted device or a recent infection. Follow specific instructions about food, drink, skin cleansing and medication; do not stop a prescribed medicine without medical advice. Arrange transport if sedation is planned, wear comfortable clothing and plan how to keep the dressing dry and protected. Learn more about [Skin Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-cancer-surgery/).

Contact the treating team promptly if the lesion develops rapid bleeding, severe pain, spreading redness, pus, fever or a sudden change while you are waiting. After surgery, seek advice for bleeding that does not settle with firm pressure, wound separation, increasing swelling, fever or vision changes when the operation was near the eye. Breathing difficulty or facial swelling is an emergency.

Ask what the biopsy shows, how much skin is expected to be removed, which anaesthetic is planned, whether reconstruction is possible, when pathology results are reviewed, and how often the treated site should be checked afterward.