Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells and is the most common form of cancer in Australia. Early detection and treatment are essential to minimise the risk of spread and to optimise cosmetic and functional outcomes. There are several types of skin cancer, each with different behaviours and treatment considerations.

The three most common types of skin cancer are Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma.

• Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common and least aggressive form. It typically grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can cause significant local tissue damage if untreated.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma is more likely than BCC to grow deeply or spread to lymph nodes, particularly if it occurs on high-risk sites such as the ears, lips, or scalp.
• Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, with the potential to spread rapidly to other parts of the body. Early surgical excision is critical and, in some cases, additional treatment or monitoring may be required.

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Surgical excision remains the gold standard treatment for most skin cancers. The procedure involves removing the cancer with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete clearance. The approach to surgery depends on the size, location, and type of skin cancer, as well as patient factors. Many skin cancers can be safely and effectively removed under local anaesthetic alone in a clinic or office setting. This involves numbing the area with an injection and performing the procedure while you are awake. For larger, more complex lesions—especially those involving the face, scalp, or other sensitive areas—surgery may be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthesia in a hospital setting. Your surgeon will determine the safest and most appropriate setting for your procedure.

In some cases, closing the wound after cancer removal requires more than simple stitches. If the wound is too large to close directly, your surgeon may use a skin graft or a local flap. A skin graft involves taking skin from another part of the body (donor site) and applying it to the wound. A local flap involves using adjacent skin and tissue to cover the defect while maintaining its own blood supply. These reconstructive techniques are chosen to preserve both function and appearance, particularly in cosmetically sensitive areas like the face.

After surgery, scar management is an important part of recovery. Most wounds heal well with appropriate care, but scarring can vary depending on the location, size of the wound, and individual healing factors. Scar management may involve the use of silicone gel or tape, gentle massage of the scar, sun protection, and in some cases, laser therapy or corticosteroid injections for thickened scars. Your surgeon will guide you through a tailored scar care plan to optimise the long-term result.

Healing times vary depending on the procedure, but most patients can resume light activities within a few days. Stitches are typically removed between 5 to 14 days, depending on the site. You may experience some swelling, bruising, or discomfort, which can be managed with simple pain relief and wound care instructions provided by your surgical team.

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, your surgeon will explain the diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes in detail. Early intervention usually results in excellent outcomes, and ongoing skin checks are recommended to monitor for new lesions. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your treating doctor or care team.