Surgical

Surgical treatment for skin cancer is one of the most effective ways to remove cancerous cells and prevent the spread of skin cancer. At Sun and Skin Medical Centre in Mt. Eliza, Victoria, our experienced team offers advanced surgical options tailored to each patient’s specific type and stage of skin cancer.

Surgical treatment for skin cancer involves the physical removal of cancerous lesions along with a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it. This method ensures that the cancer is fully excised, reducing the risk of recurrence. Surgical treatment is often recommended for Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and some types of melanoma, depending on the size, location, and depth of the cancer.

Surgical treatments provide high success rates and allow for examination of the removed tissue to confirm the complete removal of cancer cells. Sun and Skin Medical Centre offers several surgical options, from standard excision to specialized procedures, depending on the patient’s needs.

Skin cancer is caused by abnormal cell growth, usually triggered by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. Surgical treatment is often the best approach to ensure all cancerous cells are removed, especially for types of skin cancer that have a higher risk of spreading if left untreated. Surgical treatment minimizes the chance of recurrence and is an effective way to preserve surrounding healthy tissue.

At Sun and Skin Medical Centre in Mt. Eliza, Victoria, we offer a range of surgical treatments for skin cancer to ensure each patient receives the most effective care. Here are some of the primary surgical options we provide:

1. Surgical Excision

• • Surgical excision is a common approach for many cases of BCC, SCC, and early-stage melanoma. During the procedure, the cancerous lesion is removed along with a small margin of healthy skin to ensure that no cancer cells remain.
  • This procedure is effective for skin cancers located on various parts of the body and has a high success rate.
  • Benefits of surgical excision include a relatively straightforward procedure, a high cure rate, and the ability to examine the tissue post-removal to ensure complete excision.

2. Curettage and Electrodesiccation

• • Curettage and electrodesiccation is a minimally invasive procedure in which the cancerous tissue is scraped away using a curette, followed by electrodesiccation to destroy remaining cancer cells with an electric current.
  • This technique is typically used for small or superficial BCC and SCC lesions and is effective for cancers that are not deep.
  • The main advantages of curettage and electrodesiccation include a quick recovery time, minimal scarring, and suitability for early-stage cancers.

3. Wide Local Excision

• • Wide local excision is often used for melanoma and involves removing the cancerous lesion along with a larger margin of surrounding tissue to ensure all affected cells are removed.
  • This procedure is effective for melanomas and helps reduce the risk of spread to other parts of the body.

4. Skin Graft and Skin Flaps

Surgical treatment for skin cancer offers several benefits:

• High Cure Rate: Surgical procedures, particularly when performed early, offer some of the highest cure rates for skin cancer.
• Minimal Recurrence: By removing all cancerous cells, surgical treatment significantly reduces the risk of the cancer returning.
• Cosmetic Outcomes: Many surgical options prioritize minimizing scarring and achieving an optimal cosmetic result, especially important for cancers on visible areas of the body.

At Sun and Skin Medical Centre, our skilled Skin Cancer Doctors are experienced in delivering high-quality care that addresses both health and cosmetic considerations, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome.

Surgical treatment for skin cancer is generally recommended when:

• The Skin Cancer is in a Sensitive Area: For skin cancers located on the face, ears, or neck.
• The Cancer is Aggressive: Surgical excision is often the preferred treatment for more invasive or high-risk cancers, such as melanoma.
• There is a High Risk of Recurrence: Surgical methods are effective in preventing recurrence, particularly for cancers that have returned after previous treatment.

Our team at Sun and Skin Medical Centre will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the most suitable surgical treatment option based on your specific condition.

After undergoing surgical treatment for skin cancer, protecting your skin is vital to reduce the risk of recurrence. Preventive measures include:

• Daily Use of Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ every day to protect your skin from UV damage.
• Wearing Protective Clothing: Hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses offer additional protection against sun exposure.
• Avoiding Tanning Beds: Artificial UV rays from tanning beds significantly increase the risk of skin cancer.
• Regular Skin Checks: Conducting monthly self-exams and scheduling regular skin evaluations at Sun and Skin Medical Centre can help detect any new or recurring cancers early.

Located in Mt. Eliza, Victoria, Sun and Skin Medical Centre is dedicated to providing personalized, expert care for patients in need of surgical treatment for skin cancer. Our team combines advanced techniques with a compassionate, patient-centered approach to ensure effective treatment while minimizing impact on appearance and lifestyle.

If you are concerned about skin cancer or have been diagnosed with a skin cancer that requires surgical treatment, contact Sun and Skin Medical Centre to schedule a consultation. Let us help you take control of your skin health with effective, professional treatment options tailored to your unique needs.