Skin Cancer Surgery

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Australia. Due to the country's high levels of UV radiation, the incidence of skin cancer is significantly higher compared to other parts of the world.

At Sydney Surgical Associates, we provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and surgery for skin cancer. Our team is highly experienced in performing skin cancer excisions and advanced reconstructive surgery to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three primary types of skin cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma. Each type has different characteristics, risks, and treatment options, and early detection is crucial for effective management.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, accounting for around 70% of all skin cancer diagnoses in Australia. BCC typically develops in areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and ears.

Causes and Risk Factors

UV exposure: Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds is the leading cause of BCC.
Fair skin: People with lighter skin types are more prone to developing BCC.
Age: BCC is more common in older adults, although it can occur in younger people.
Family history: A family history of skin cancer can increase risk.

Symptoms

A small, pearly, or waxy bump on the skin, often with visible blood vessels
A flat, scar-like area with a raised border
Painless growths that can become ulcerated or bleed

Treatment Options

BCC is often treated with surgical excision, where the tumour is removed along with a small margin of healthy tissue. Other treatment options may include:

Mohs surgery: A highly precise technique where thin layers of cancerous tissue are removed and examined until no cancer cells remain.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the cancerous tissue with liquid nitrogen.
Topical treatments: Creams or ointments may be used in certain cases of superficial BCC.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer in Australia. SCC usually develops on areas of the skin that have been frequently exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, arms, and hands.

Causes and Risk Factors

UV radiation: The primary cause of SCC is prolonged sun exposure, which damages the skin cells.
Older age: SCC is more common in people aged 50 and older.
Immunosuppression: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those on immunosuppressive medication, are at a higher risk.
Previous skin damage: People who have had a history of sunburns or other forms of skin damage are more likely to develop SCC.

Symptoms

A firm, red nodule or a scaly, crusted lesion
Sores that do not heal or reappear after healing
Bleeding or ulceration in the affected area

Treatment Options

SCC can be treated with various surgical and non-surgical approaches:

Surgical excision: The tumour is removed along with healthy tissue around it.
Mohs surgery: For larger or more aggressive SCCs, Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate by carefully removing thin layers of tissue.
Radiation therapy: In cases where surgery is not an option or if the tumour is in a delicate location, radiation therapy may be used.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and accounts for a smaller percentage of skin cancer cases. However, it is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths in Australia. Melanoma often develops in existing moles but can also form in normal skin.

Causes and Risk Factors

UV exposure: Intense and intermittent sunburns, especially in childhood, are significant contributors to the development of melanoma.
Fair skin: Those with fair or freckled skin, light eyes, and red or blonde hair are at a higher risk.
Family history: A family history of melanoma increases the likelihood of developing the disease.
Large number of moles: Having more than 50 moles on the body, or atypical moles, increases risk.

Symptoms

A new mole or a change in an existing mole, including asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colours, or increased size
Itchiness, bleeding, or tenderness in a mole
A mole that changes in appearance, shape, or colour

Treatment Options

Melanoma requires prompt treatment to prevent its spread to other parts of the body. Treatment options include:

Wide excision: Surgical removal of the melanoma and a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy: In cases where melanoma has spread, this test checks for cancer cells in the lymph nodes.
Immunotherapy and targeted therapy: For advanced melanoma, treatments such as immunotherapy or targeted therapy can help the body’s immune system fight cancer cells.