Skin cancer: When should something be removed?
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but with early detection and treatment it can be managed successfully.
In this article, consultant plastic surgeon Miss Rakhee Nayar will discuss when a skin lesion or growth should be removed, the process behind skin cancer removal, and why early intervention is so important.
Understanding skin cancer
Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably.
There are several types of skin cancer, but the most common include basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.
While BCC and SCC are usually non-fatal and can often be treated successfully with a variety of procedures, melanoma requires more aggressive treatment due to its potential to spread (metastasize).
Early detection of all types of skin cancer is essential for the best possible outcomes.
What does skin cancer look like?
Skin cancer can manifest in different forms. Common signs to look out for include:
- New growths: a new mole, spot, or bump on the skin that wasn’t there before.
- Changes in existing moles: a mole that changes in size, shape, colour, or texture, or that starts to bleed, itch or become painful.
- Unusual patches: dry, flaky, red, or itchy patches that don’t heal over time.
- Non-healing wounds: a sore that doesn’t heal after several weeks, or heals and then reopens.
It’s important to regularly check your skin for any changes and seek medical advice if you notice anything unusual.
When should a skin growth be removed?
When a suspicious growth or lesion is found, your doctor will assess it to determine if it's potentially cancerous.
1. Suspected skin cancer
A doctor may recommend removing a mole or lesion if it shows signs of skin cancer.
The removal process is often done through a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm if it is cancerous.
2. Pre-cancerous lesions
Sometimes, doctors find lesions that are not cancerous yet but have the potential to turn cancerous over time.
These pre-cancerous lesions, such as actinic keratosis (AK), may be removed proactively to reduce the risk of it developing into skin cancer.
3. Cosmetic concerns
While this is not directly related to cancer, some patients may choose to have a lesion or growth removed if it is causing discomfort or affecting their appearance.
However, it is crucial that a thorough medical examination takes place to rule out cancer before considering cosmetic removal.
Mohs surgery: A precise and effective treatment
When skin cancer is diagnosed, Mohs surgery is one of the most recommended treatments, particularly for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.
Unlike traditional excision, which removes a wider margin of skin around the tumour, Mohs surgery removes the cancer layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until no cancerous cells remain.
This method has the highest cure rates for non-melanoma skin cancers and allows the preservation of as much healthy skin as possible, which is particularly useful in areas where skin is delicate, like the face, ears, or neck.
Additionally, Mohs surgery is associated with the lowest recurrence rates, making it a highly effective long-term treatment option.
What happens after removal?
Once a lesion or tumour is removed, you will be provided with post-operative care instructions. These typically include:
- Keeping the area clean and dry.
- Applying prescribed ointments or medications.
- Avoiding sun exposure to reduce the risk of scarring.
In cases where skin cancer has spread or if there’s a risk of recurrence, additional treatments such as radiation, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy may be recommended.
Timely removal of suspicious lesions using techniques like Mohs surgery can help ensure both effective treatment and minimal scarring.
If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, consult with Miss Nayar via her Top Doctors profile.