Skin Cancer Surgery: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview of Skin Cancer Surgery
A common surgical procedure for removing cancerous growths or lesions from the skin is skin cancer surgery. By removing cancerous cells, it prevents the spread of the disease and reduces the risk of recurrence. For various types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, surgery may be recommended. Cancer surgery aims to remove all cancerous tissue while preserving the surrounding healthy skin and achieving optimal cosmetic results.
Preparation
It is common for patients to consult with their dermatologist or surgeon before undergoing skin cancer surgery to discuss the procedure, review their medical history, and answer any questions they may have. In addition to instructions on skincare, medication management, and dietary restrictions, certain medications or supplements that affect bleeding or healing may need to be discontinued. To optimize healing, patients may also be advised to avoid sun exposure and moisturize their skin.
Procedure
The specific surgical technique used will be determined by the size, location, and type of skin cancer being treated. In most cases, skin cancer surgery is performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can return home the same day. In addition to excisional surgery, Mohs micrographic surgery, curettage and electrodesiccation, and cryosurgery are common procedures for treating skin cancer. In order to ensure complete removal of cancer cells, the surgeon will remove the cancerous lesion along with healthy tissue around it. The wound may be closed with sutures or may require skin grafts or flaps for larger defects.
Recovery
When patients undergo skin cancer surgery, they may experience mild discomfort, swelling, bruising, or drainage at the surgical site. These symptoms usually resolve within a few weeks. After surgery, patients can usually resume their normal activities, including work and light exercise, but strenuous activity and sun exposure should be avoided until the surgical site is completely healed. Following surgery, patients will receive specific instructions on wound care, dressing changes, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and assess complications.
Risks
There are some risks and potential complications associated with skin cancer surgery, but it is generally safe and well-tolerated. Skin cancer recurrence, bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in skin sensation, wound breakdown, and scarring can occur as a result of these procedures. By following preoperative and postoperative instructions, choosing an experienced and qualified surgeon, and attending all follow-up appointments for monitoring and evaluation, complications can be minimized.
Aftercare
After skin cancer surgery, patients will be advised to monitor the surgical site for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or drainage, and to contact their healthcare provider if any concerning symptoms occur. The patient should also continue to wear sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds in order to protect their skin from the sun. Dermatologists and surgeons will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing, assess for recurrence, and address any questions or concerns. In order to achieve successful outcomes and minimize complications, skin cancer must be detected and treated early.
