Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide, with various types that affect millions of individuals. When diagnosed, effective treatment options are crucial, and surgery is one of the primary methods used to remove cancerous tissue. This blog will explore the different surgical options available for skin cancer, focusing on Mohs surgery and its benefits, particularly in the removal of skin cancer on face.
What is Skin Cancer Surgery?
Surgery for skin cancer involves the removal of cancerous cells and surrounding tissue to prevent the cancer from spreading. The choice of surgical method largely depends on the type, size, and location of the skin cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Surgery aims to achieve clear margins, meaning that no cancerous cells are left behind, significantly reducing the risk of recurrence.
Types of Skin Cancer Surgery
Excisional Surgery
Excisional surgery is a standard procedure where the doctor removes the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin surrounding it. This method is suitable for various types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
After removal, the wound may be stitched closed or allowed to heal naturally. The advantage of this technique is that it allows for thorough examination of the removed tissue to ensure that the cancer has been entirely excised.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs surgery is a specialised technique often used for non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly those located on the face and other sensitive areas. This method is especially beneficial for removing skin cancers that are difficult to treat due to their size, location, or previous treatment failures.
During Mohs surgery, the surgeon removes the cancerous skin layer by layer. Each layer is examined microscopically for cancerous cells. If any cancerous cells remain, additional layers are removed until clear margins are achieved.
The primary advantage of Mohs surgery is its high cure rate, especially for facial cancers, as it preserves as much healthy tissue as possible, thus minimising cosmetic damage.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery involves freezing cancerous cells with liquid nitrogen. This technique is typically used for superficial basal cell carcinomas and precancerous lesions. The frozen tissue eventually falls off, leaving healthy skin underneath. While it is less invasive, it may not be suitable for deeper skin cancers.
Electrosurgery
Electrosurgery uses high-frequency electrical currents to destroy cancerous cells. This technique is often used for small or superficial skin cancers and may be combined with other methods, such as excisional surgery.
Sentinel Node Biopsy
For melanoma and some squamous cell cancers, a sentinel node biopsy may be performed. This procedure involves removing a limited number of lymph nodes to determine if the cancer has spread. If cancerous cells are found, further treatment may be necessary.
Why is Mohs Surgery Preferred for Facial Skin Cancer?
Facial skin cancers pose unique challenges due to the need for preserving facial aesthetics while ensuring complete cancer removal. Mohs surgery is the gold standard for treating skin cancers on the face for several reasons:
Precision: The layer-by-layer removal ensures that the cancer is fully excised while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. This precision is critical in facial areas where cosmetic outcomes are vital.
High Cure Rate: Mohs surgery boasts a cure rate of up to 99% for non-melanoma skin cancers, making it one of the most effective treatment options.
Immediate Results: Patients receive immediate feedback about whether all cancerous cells have been removed during the procedure, eliminating the need for follow-up surgeries.
Recovery After Skin Cancer Surgery
Recovery after skin cancer surgery varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Generally, patients can expect:
Wound Care: Proper care of the surgical site is crucial for healing. Patients should follow their surgeon's instructions on how to clean and protect the wound.
Pain Management: Some discomfort is normal after surgery, but pain management strategies will be discussed during the post-operative visit.
Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing and ensure that the cancer does not recur. Depending on the type of cancer and surgical procedure, additional treatments may be required.
Importance of Regular Skin Checks
Early detection and treatment of skin cancer are critical to successful outcomes. Regular skin checks, either by a healthcare professional or self-examinations at home, can help identify any suspicious changes in the skin. If you notice any unusual moles, spots, or changes, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Contact SunSkin Clinic for Skin Cancer Surgery
At SunSkin Clinic, we understand that a skin cancer diagnosis can be daunting. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalised care and support throughout your treatment journey. If you are seeking information about surgery for skin cancer or wish to discuss your options, please contact us.
Keysborough: 03 9329 3300
Box Hill: 03 8352 4200
Conclusion
Surgery is a vital aspect of skin cancer treatment, with various methods available depending on individual circumstances. Mohs surgery, in particular, is a highly effective option for removing facial skin cancers while preserving healthy tissue. By understanding the different surgical options and their benefits, patients can make informed decisions about their skin cancer treatment. Remember, early detection is key, so schedule regular skin checks and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your skin health.
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