SKIN CANCER TREATMENT
Short Summary
Skin cancer is the commonest form of any cancer and is more frequently diagnosed in those who have lived abroad, had significant sun exposure, are fair skinned, or have used sunbeds. Mole mapping is the gold standard to monitor the skin and identify lesions which may change. Pigmented skin lesions (moles) may change and require removal to determine if they are melanoma. Non-melanoma skin cancer encompasses all other types of skin cancer and is far commoner. Surgical removal remains the mainstay of treatment in all types of skin cancer and is often curative.Key Information
Additional Information
It is essential to identify skin cancers early as this leads to better outcomes.
Consultant Dermatologist assessment in a consultation or mole mapping can identify abnormal or changing skin lesions.
Mole mapping monitors change in pigmented lesions (moles) and can also identify other types of skin cancer aside from melanoma.
Following diagnosis of a skin cancer, consultation with a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon can outline further treatment, which is usually surgery.
Further support may be given by skin cancer nurse specialist.
Surgical removal remains the mainstay of treatment and skin cancers are typically removed under local anaesthetic.
Skin cancers on the face may require reconstruction performed by a Plastic Surgeon.
More advanced surgical procedures such as sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma can determine if there has been spread of a cancer and may be recommended in some instances.
Occasionally oncology treatment for advanced cancers can be required.
Regular Mole mapping is the gold standard for monitoring of moles and highlights early changes. Scar cream is recommended to be used regularly in the weeks following treatment. Laser (Halo) is effective at reducing redness and lumpiness, often in conjunction with Morpheus8 treatment. Full skin care assessment and recommendations can be made to help improve sun damaged and dry skin, including SPF sun protection. The Observ skin scanner provides an objective measure of the deeper layers of the skin to help diagnose issues such as rosacea, sun damage, dehydration and more. Medical grade skin care and SPF can improve skin in the longer term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Details on the post-operative course will be discussed. There can be some minor aching or discomfort following the procedure and paracetamol is usually adequate pain relief. It is best to take it easy for a few days following the procedure as the area can be at risk of slow healing if exercise is undertaken too soon.
Results
The pathology result following the removal of the skin cancer is usually available at one week. There will also be a review of the wound at this point, and the sutured wound may be fragile for the first week, and it may be red or dark and slightly lumpy for a period. Moisturising and massaging help speed up the healing process.
Infection, bleeding, delayed healing, poor scar, need for further treatment.
Prior to arrival at Montrose
Wear loose fitting clothing.
Discuss your medication history with the consultant at the time of decided on mole removal.
On arrival at Montrose
Further assessment of the skin cancer will be performed to determine any recent changes and it will be marked for removal. The consent form will be reviewed and the procedure performed following local anaesthetic administration.
