Skin Cancer Surgery Toowoomba | Cutting Edge Surgery Toowoomba

Skin Cancer Surgery at Cutting Edge Surgery Toowoomba: What You Need to Know

Skin cancer surgery isn’t just about removing a mole or a bump. It’s about peace of mind, knowing that you’ve tackled a problem early and effectively. With the sun in Australia being as strong as it is, skin cancer is, unfortunately, something many of us will have to deal with. Whether it’s a small spot that needs checking or a larger area that requires surgery, addressing skin cancer promptly is key.

Let’s break down what skin cancer surgery involves, how it can help, and what you might expect if you find yourself in need of this procedure.

What Is Skin Cancer Surgery?

In Australia, skin cancer is a common concern due to our climate and high levels of UV exposure. Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the skin grow uncontrollably. It’s not all doom and gloom though—most skin cancers can be treated effectively, especially when caught early.

There are three main types of skin cancer:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This is the most common type. It’s usually found in sun-exposed areas, like the face and neck, and grows slowly. Basal cell skin cancer may involve the management of lymph nodes, and enlarged lymph nodes might warrant a biopsy to check for cancer cells.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This one is a bit more serious than BCC. It can spread if not treated promptly. Squamous cell skin cancer often requires surgical interventions, and additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy may be needed when the cancer poses a high risk of spreading.
Melanoma: The most dangerous of the bunch. Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body and needs swift attention.

Each of these requires a slightly different approach in treatment, but the goal is always the same—remove the cancerous cells and prevent them from returning.

Types of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a broad term that encompasses several types of cancer affecting the skin. The most common types are:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Accounting for about 80% of all skin cancer cases, BCC typically appears as a small, shiny bump on the skin. It’s often found on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, and hands. While BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads, it can cause significant damage if left untreated.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Less common but more aggressive than BCC, SCC usually manifests as a firm, red nodule. It often appears on the face, lips, and ears. If not treated promptly, SCC can spread to other parts of the body, making early detection crucial.
Melanoma: The most dangerous form of skin cancer, melanoma accounts for about 1% of all skin cancer cases. It typically appears as a new or changing mole on the skin and is often found on the trunk, arms, and legs. Melanoma can spread rapidly to other parts of the body, so early intervention is vital.
Other Types of Skin Cancer: While less common, other types of skin cancer include Merkel cell carcinoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Each of these has unique characteristics and requires specialized treatment.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

New or Changing Moles: A new mole or changes in an existing mole, such as size, shape, or color, can be a warning sign of skin cancer.
Sores That Don’t Heal: Persistent sores that don’t heal or that bleed easily may indicate skin cancer.
Red or Scaly Patches: Red or scaly patches on the skin that don’t go away could be a sign of skin cancer.
Bumps or Nodules: Unusual bumps or nodules on the skin, especially if they grow or change, should be checked by a doctor.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, biopsy, and imaging tests. During a biopsy, a sample of tissue from the suspected tumor is removed and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

Why Surgery for Skin Cancer?

Surgery is one of the most common and effective treatments for skin cancer, especially for BCC and SCC. The surgeon’s job is to remove the cancerous tissue while keeping as much healthy skin as possible. It’s a bit like weeding a garden—you want to get the roots out, but you don’t want to disturb the flowers around it.

For most skin cancers, surgery offers the best chance of being cancer-free without needing further treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. When caught early, a surgical procedure can be relatively straightforward. But if the cancer has grown, or is in a tricky spot, the surgery might be more complex. If cancer cells are found at the surgical margin, further surgery may be necessary to ensure complete removal.

Common Skin Cancer Surgeries

There are different surgical techniques used, depending on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Here are some common ones:

. Excisional Surgery

This is the foundation of skin cancer surgery. The surgeon removes the cancerous tissue along with a small margin of healthy skin to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated. The type of closure depends on the size and location of the excision:

Excision and Primary Closure: If the cancer is small enough, the wound edges can be brought together and closed directly without needing additional tissue or grafting.
Excision and Skin Flap: When a larger area of tissue is removed, and the wound cannot be closed directly, a skin flap may be used. This involves rotating or moving nearby skin with its own blood supply to cover the defect, ensuring proper healing.
Excision and Skin Graft: If there isn’t enough local tissue to cover the wound, a skin graft may be required. A graft can be a full-thickness graft taken from areas like the face or neck or a split-thickness graft, often taken from the thigh, depending on the size and depth of the wound.

Preparing for Surgery

If you’re preparing for skin cancer surgery, you’ll likely have some questions—and that’s completely normal. You’ll need to have a consultation with your surgeon to discuss your specific situation, including the type of skin cancer you have and the best treatment options.

Your surgeon will examine the area, possibly do a biopsy (if it hasn’t been done already), and explain the procedure in detail. They’ll also walk you through the potential risks, benefits, and what recovery might look like.

What Happens During the Surgery?

Skin cancer surgery is usually done under local anaesthetic and sedation, meaning the area will be numb, but you’ll be awake with mild sedation.

For larger or more complex cases, like some squamous cell carcinomas or melanomas, your surgeon may recommend a more in-depth procedure. This might involve removing nearby lymph nodes to check for cancer spread. For basal cell skin cancer and squamous cell skin cancer, the surgeon may recommend removing nearby lymph nodes to check for cancer spread.

Recovery and Healing

Recovery from skin cancer surgery depends on the size and location of the surgery. Most people can expect some bruising, swelling, and minor discomfort after the procedure. The skin will heal over time, and you’ll be left with a scar. If a large area was removed, the surgeon may use a skin graft or flap to help with healing, which may require a bit more recovery time.

The good news is that with most surgeries, once the cancer is removed, you’re in the clear. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are essential, though, as skin cancer can come back, or you may develop new spots in the future.

Prognosis and Outlook

The prognosis and outlook for skin cancer depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the individual’s overall health. Generally, skin cancer is highly treatable if caught early, and the prognosis is excellent for early-stage skin cancer. However, advanced skin cancer can be more challenging to treat and may have a poorer prognosis.

Following the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for skin cancer treatment and consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care are crucial steps in managing skin cancer effectively.

Preventing Future Skin Cancer

Having one skin cancer removed doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for good. Skin cancer can recur, especially if you have a history of sun exposure. The best way to prevent future cancers is to protect your skin every day. Here’s what you can do:

Wear Sunscreen: Slip, slop, slap! Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply it every two hours, especially if you’re outside.
Cover Up: Hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses aren’t just fashion choices—they’re protection.
Avoid Peak Sun: The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to stay in the shade during these hours.
Check Your Skin Regularly: Get familiar with the moles and spots on your body. If anything changes, grows, or looks suspicious, see a doctor.

What About Melanoma and Basal Cell Skin Cancer?

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, but early detection is key. If caught early, surgery can often remove the melanoma before it spreads. However, if it has spread to other parts of the body, more extensive surgery or treatments like immunotherapy might be needed.

During surgery for melanoma, the surgeon may remove a wider margin of skin around the tumour and possibly nearby lymph nodes. In some cases, the cancer may have spread deeper into the skin or to other organs, which requires a different treatment approach.

Regular Check-ups Are Essential

Once you’ve had skin cancer, regular skin checks become part of your routine. Your doctor will likely recommend check-ups every six to 12 months, depending on your history and the type of cancer you had. These visits are crucial for catching any new or recurring cancers early.

Final Thoughts

Skin cancer surgery, while sometimes daunting, is one of the most effective ways to treat skin cancer and move forward with your life. Whether it’s basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma, surgery gives you the best chance of removing the cancerous cells and staying cancer-free.

And remember, your skin is your body’s largest organ. Protect it, keep an eye on it, and don’t hesitate to seek help if something doesn’t look right. If you need skin cancer surgery in Toowoomba, you’re in good hands with experienced surgeons who understand the importance of thorough care while preserving your healthy skin.