When is tumour removal surgery recommended for melanoma?

The procedure removes the melanoma and a planned border of normal-looking skin. The needed margin is guided by the tumour’s measured depth and other pathology findings, rather than by colour or size alone. A further operation may be discussed if the first specimen does not have the intended clear edge.

Some people are offered an additional procedure to examine nearby lymph nodes, depending on the melanoma’s features. If there is concern that melanoma has spread, imaging, specialist review, or medicines may also be part of care. These decisions are separate from judging how suspicious a mole looks at home.

Take the biopsy report and a list of medicines to your surgical consultation. Tell the team about blood-thinning treatment, allergies, previous scars, and any operation you have had near the lesion. Ask where the scar will be, whether a graft or other closure could be needed, and how the pathology result will affect the next step. Protect the area from further sun exposure while awaiting treatment.

Arrange prompt assessment for a mole or dark mark that changes in shape, colour, border, or size, or develops persistent bleeding or crusting. After an operation, seek urgent advice for uncontrolled bleeding, worsening pain with redness or warmth, fever, pus, or a wound that opens.

Ask what the biopsy shows, what margin is planned, whether lymph-node assessment is relevant, and when the final report will be available. Clarify the expected scar, wound care, return to normal activities, and the schedule for full-skin examinations.