Skin Cancer Removal Surgery: What to Expect Before, During and After Treatment

   Article produced by Mr Omar Dawood, Consultant Plastic Surgeon

A diagnosis of skin cancer can feel overwhelming, but many skin cancers can be effectively treated when detected early. One of the most common and successful treatment options is skin cancer excision, a procedure that removes the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin to help reduce the risk of recurrence. The earlier this can be done the better as this will stop the disease from growing and spreading.

If you’ve been advised to undergo skin cancer excision, understanding the procedure can help you feel more informed and confident about your treatment.

What Is Skin Removal Surgery?

Skin cancer excision is a surgical procedure used to remove cancerous skin lesions. It is commonly performed for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and most of melanoma.

The goal of the procedure is to completely remove the cancer while preserving as much healthy surrounding tissue as possible. The tissue removed will be sent for Histological testing to confirm the diagnosis and the clearance.

Who Needs Skin Cancer Removal Surgery?

Your doctor may recommend surgical excision if a biopsy has confirmed skin cancer or if a suspicious lesion has characteristics that warrant removal.

Excision is often recommended for:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Melanoma
• Suspicious moles which could be dysplastic
• Recurrent skin cancers
• Larger or deeper lesions
• Skin cancers located in areas where complete removal is essential
• Other symptomatic skin conditions

The most appropriate treatment depends on the type, size, location and depth of the cancer, as well as your overall health. Always seek expert advice before exploring surgical treatments.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Skin cancer excision is typically performed under local anaesthetic in an outpatient setting. Depending on the size and location of the excision, the procedure will most likely be performed by a Plastic Surgeon.

During the procedure:

1. The treatment area is numbed with local anaesthetic.
2.  The surgeon removes the skin cancer along with a carefully measured margin of surrounding healthy tissue.
3. The wound is closed using stitches, a skin flap or a skin graft, depending on the size and location of the excision.
4. The tissue specimen is sent for pathological examination.

Most procedures take between 30 minutes and one hour, although more complex cases may require additional time.

Will There Be a Scar?

Any surgical procedure that involves removing skin will leave a scar. However, experienced surgeons carefully plan incisions and closures to achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome.

Most scars continue to improve for several months-years after surgery and often become less noticeable over time. The surgeon can advise about the process and certain techniques that may help.

What Is Recovery Like After Skin Cancer Removal Surgery?

Recovery is generally straightforward. Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few days, although strenuous exercise may need to be avoided for a short period roughly 2 -3 weeks, but your surgeon will help to answer your questions based on his assessment.

You may experience:

• Mild discomfort
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Temporary redness around the incision

Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed wound care instructions to support healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Stitches are typically removed within one to two weeks, depending on the location of the excision.

How Successful Is Skin Cancer Removal?

Surgical excision is highly effective for many forms of skin cancer. Complete removal significantly reduces the risk of the cancer returning in the treated area.

The success rate depends on factors such as:

• The type of skin cancer
• How early it was detected
• Whether clear margins are achieved
• The patient’s ongoing skin surveillance

If you are concerned about your skin health, always seek professional advice about your individual circumstances.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Early diagnosis remains one of the most important factors in successful treatment. You should arrange an assessment if you notice:

• A new or changing mole
• A sore that does not heal
• A persistent scaly patch
• A lump that grows over time
• A lesion that bleeds, crusts, or changes appearance

Prompt evaluation can help identify potential skin cancers before they become more advanced.

Take the Next Step

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or are concerned about a suspicious skin lesion, seeking prompt assessment is important.

At LycaHealth Orpington, you can book a consultation with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Omar Dawood, who will carefully assess your individual circumstances, discuss your treatment options and recommend the most appropriate course of action tailored to your needs.

Book a Consultation Online Today

LycaHealth Orpington is managed by KIMS Hospital