Skin Cancer Surgery

The skin is the body’s first line of protection and also one of the most visible parts of our appearance. Any unusual growth, non-healing sore, or changing mole should never be ignored, as early detection and timely treatment play a crucial role in successful outcomes.

Understanding the Basics

What Is Skin Cancer Surgery?

Skin cancer surgery involves removing cancerous tissue along with a margin of surrounding healthy skin to ensure complete treatment. Depending on the size, type, and location, reconstruction may also be performed to restore skin continuity and appearance.

The procedure is carefully planned to remove the affected area while minimizing visible scarring and preserving function. It is commonly performed for conditions like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and selected early melanomas.

Common Areas Treated

Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body but is more common in areas exposed to the sun over long periods. Treatment planning depends on the location to ensure both effective removal and careful reconstruction.

Face & Scalp

Sun-exposed areas where skin cancers are more likely to develop and require careful removal.

Neck & Shoulder

Regions frequently exposed to sunlight and prone to visible skin changes.

Arms & Hands

Areas that often show early skin damage due to regular sun exposure.

You May Be Suitable for Skin Cancer Surgery If:

Suitability depends on the type, size, and location of the lesion, along with overall health and medical history. Early treatment improves outcomes and helps prevent the spread of abnormal cells to deeper tissues.

1

Non-Healing Skin Lesion

You have a sore or patch on the skin that does not heal over time and may bleed or crust repeatedly.

2

Changing Mole or Growth

A mole or skin spot that changes in size, color, shape, or texture and requires medical evaluation.

3

Confirmed Skin Cancer Diagnosis

You have been diagnosed with skin cancer and need surgical removal for proper treatment.

4

Recurrent Skin Lesion

A previously treated lesion has returned and needs further surgical management.

What to Expect from Skin Cancer Surgery

Skin cancer surgery is carefully planned to ensure complete removal of the affected tissue while maintaining the natural appearance of the skin. Understanding the treatment steps, healing process, and recovery expectations helps patients feel informed and reassured throughout the journey.

The area is numbed using local anesthesia for a comfortable experience.
The cancerous tissue is removed along with a safe margin of healthy skin.
Reconstruction may be performed depending on the size and location.

Complete removal of the affected tissue with medical confirmation.
Improved skin health and reduced risk of further spread.
Gradual healing with attention to scar appearance.

Mild swelling or tenderness may be present initially.
Dressing care and follow-up visits support proper healing.
Recovery time depends on the size and complexity of the procedure.

Skin cancer removal requires both medical precision and reconstructive expertise. A skilled plastic surgeon ensures that the cancer is completely removed while carefully managing the closure and reconstruction of the skin for the best functional and cosmetic outcome.

Dr. Shraddha Deshpande is an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon with expertise in managing complex skin conditions and post-excision reconstruction. She focuses on achieving safe cancer removal while preserving appearance and function.

Early detection and timely treatment can make a significant difference in outcomes. My goal is to remove affected tissue safely while restoring comfort, function, and natural appearance.

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FAQs

Common Questions About Skin Cancer Surgery

We understand that choosing an aesthetic procedure comes with questions. Here you’ll find clear, honest answers to help you understand the treatment and what to expect.

Surgery is one of the most effective treatments for removing cancerous skin tissue, especially when detected early. Your doctor will recommend the best approach based on the type and stage.

In some cases, especially for larger areas, reconstructive techniques are used to restore skin shape and appearance.

Complete removal reduces the risk significantly, but regular follow-ups help monitor skin health and detect any changes early.

Local anesthesia is used to keep the treatment comfortable. Mild soreness afterward is temporary and manageable.

Some scarring is expected, but careful surgical and reconstructive techniques help keep it as minimal and less noticeable as possible.

Most skin cancer surgeries are performed as day-care procedures and do not require overnight hospitalization.

Book Consultation to Save Skin and Health

If you notice a changing mole, non-healing sore, or unusual growth, early evaluation is important. Book a consultation for expert assessment, safe removal, and reconstructive care suited to your needs.