When is surgical excision recommended for melanoma?

Melanoma may begin in a mole or appear as a new changing pigmented mark. A biopsy establishes the diagnosis, while the pathology report describes features that help the specialist plan definitive surgery. This commonly involves removing the biopsy site and a measured border of nearby skin. The required margin depends on the tumour's pathology and location. Some people may also need assessment of nearby lymph nodes or other scans, based on the clinical findings. Surgery is coordinated with a dermatology, surgical, or oncology team rather than chosen from the appearance alone.

Keep the pathology report and attend the recommended specialist appointment without delaying it. Bring a list of medicines, allergies, previous operations, and questions about the scar, reconstruction, anaesthetic, and recovery. Do not apply irritants to the biopsy site. Protect the area from sun and follow the wound instructions after surgery. Ask who will explain the final pathology result and whether your skin and lymph nodes need follow-up.

Request prompt assessment for a mole or pigmented mark that changes in asymmetry, border, colour, diameter, or surface, or that bleeds or repeatedly crusts. After surgery, report persistent bleeding, wound opening, increasing redness, drainage, fever, or new swelling near the treated area.

Ask what the pathology shows, what margin is planned and why, whether lymph-node assessment is relevant, how the wound will be closed, and which team will coordinate follow-up.