What to expect from tumour removal surgery for squamous cell skin cancer

A surgeon numbs the area or uses anaesthesia suited to the size and site of the lesion. The growth and a planned rim of surrounding tissue are removed so a laboratory can examine the specimen. The wound may be closed with stitches, left to heal gradually, or repaired with a skin graft or flap when more tissue is needed. The report helps establish whether the edges are clear and whether further treatment should be discussed.

Expect tenderness, swelling, bruising, or a dressing around the surgical site. The final scar depends on the location, depth, closure method, and how your skin heals.

Tell the team about medicines that affect bleeding, allergies, diabetes, immune conditions, and previous problems with anaesthesia. Arrange transport if sedation or general anaesthesia is planned. Keep the dressing dry for the period advised, wash the wound as instructed, and avoid picking at scabs or soaking the area until it is ready. Attend the wound check and pathology appointment.

Protect healed skin from strong sun with clothing and sunscreen recommended by your clinician. Check the treated area and nearby skin for a new sore, crust, bleeding spot, or changing growth, and report changes promptly.

Contact your surgical team urgently for bleeding that does not settle with firm pressure, worsening redness spreading from the wound, pus, fever, increasing pain, or the wound opening. Seek emergency help for trouble breathing, fainting, or swelling that rapidly affects the face or neck.

Ask where the tumour is likely to be removed, how the wound will be closed, when you can wash or exercise, when pathology results are expected, and whether another procedure or skin surveillance is recommended.