Skin Cancer Surgery
Overview
Skin cancer surgery at Alpha Hospital covers complete excision and reconstruction of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.
The goal is complete cancer clearance with reconstruction planned to restore anatomy, function, and appearance in the safest and most predictable way for your situation. Reconstruction may be straightforward (direct closure, local flap, skin graft) or more complex depending on tumour size, location, and prior treatment. Every plan is individualised.
What to Expect
Skin cancer surgery may be performed under local anaesthetic for smaller lesions or general anaesthetic for larger or more complex cases. Reconstruction is selected based on defect size, depth, and location. Options include direct closure, local tissue rearrangement (flaps), and skin grafts. For facial skin cancers, preserving function (eyelid closure, lip competence, nasal airway) is prioritised alongside appearance. Histology confirms clearance; further treatment (re-excision, radiotherapy, oncology referral) is arranged if needed. Recovery depends on reconstruction type: simple closures heal within 1-2 weeks; grafts and flaps may take longer and require careful wound care.
Benefits
Complete cancer clearance with margin-checked excision
Reconstruction planned for your anatomy and priorities
Restore function in critical areas (eyelids, lips, nose)
Preserve appearance as far as safely possible
Clear pathway if further treatment is needed
Coordinated care with dermatology and oncology
Our Services
Skin Cancer Excision
Surgical removal of the cancerous lesion (BCC, SCC, or melanoma) with a safety margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete clearance, confirmed by histology.
Skin Cancer Reconstruction
Repair of the surgical defect using techniques such as direct closure, skin grafts, or local flaps to restore anatomy, function, and appearance.
Before & After
FAQs
Will the cancer be completely removed?
We aim for complete excision with clear margins, confirmed by histology. If margins are involved, further treatment is arranged.
How will the area be reconstructed?
This depends on defect size, depth, and location. We select the method that best balances healing, function, and appearance.
Will I need further treatment?
If histology shows incomplete excision or high-risk features, further surgery, radiotherapy, or oncology referral may be recommended.
How visible will the scar be?
Scars are planned in natural skin lines where possible. Final appearance depends on location, healing, and reconstruction type. Scars continue to mature for 12-18 months.
When can I return to normal activities?
Many return to desk work within days. Physical activity, sun exposure, and wound care instructions are tailored to your reconstruction type.