When is surgical excision recommended for basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that often appears as a sore that does not heal, a shiny bump, or a patch that bleeds or crusts. A dermatologist considers the tumour's location, borders, size, subtype, and whether it has returned after earlier treatment. Excision removes the visible tumour together with a planned border of nearby skin. The specimen goes to a laboratory to check whether the edges are clear. Areas near the eyes, nose, ears, or other structures may need a technique that checks margins during the procedure or a different treatment plan.

Bring your biopsy details and a list of medicines, especially blood-thinning medicines or supplements, to the consultation. Do not stop prescribed treatment unless the clinician managing it gives instructions. Discuss the expected scar, closure method, anaesthetic, activity limits, and how pathology results will be shared. Keep the site protected from sun and avoid scratching or covering it with unapproved products.

Arrange a skin assessment promptly for a lesion that repeatedly bleeds, forms a persistent crust, grows, or fails to heal. After excision, contact the treating service for worsening pain, spreading redness, drainage, fever, wound opening, or bleeding that continues despite pressure.

Ask why excision fits this tumour's site and subtype, how the margins will be assessed, what reconstruction may be needed, and how future skin checks will be planned.