Skin Cancer
Skin cancer treatment
Plastic surgeons are usually asked to treat skin cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas or when more complex reconstruction is required.
We are often asked to see patients with skin cancer by our dermatology colleagues or GPs. We can offer surgical removal of skin cancers such as Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Melanoma. The aim is to remove the tumour completely while minimising the functional and cosmetic outcomes. We are also well equipped to deal with any reconstruction that may be required, such as skin grafts or local flaps.
Overview
Skin Cancers
- TYPE OF ANAESTHETIC
Local - LENGTH OF SURGERY
30-60 minutes - TIME IN HOSPITAL
Outpatient - RECOVERY
Few days off work, 4-6 weeks before strenuous exercise
Skin cancer treatment options
We offer a comprehensive range of treatment options for common skin cancers tailored to meet the individual needs of our patients. We aim to provide effective care while maximising patient comfort and cosmetic outcomes. Here’s a closer look at the non-surgical and surgical treatments available:
Non-Surgical Options:
- Topical Medications: Utilise prescription creams and gels to target and destroy cancer cells. Ideal for superficial cancers, these treatments can be applied directly to the skin, offering a non-invasive approach with minimal side effects.
Surgical Options:
- Excisional Surgery: Involves the surgical removal of the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin. This method effectively treats many skin cancers, completely removing the cancerous cells.
- Cryosurgery: Uses extreme cold (liquid nitrogen) to freeze and destroy abnormal cells. Best suited for small, early-stage cancers and pre-cancerous conditions, cryosurgery is a less invasive option that typically results in minimal scarring.
- Electrosurgery: Combines curettage (scraping) with electrodesiccation (burning) to treat certain skin cancers effectively. This technique is particularly useful for small, superficial cancers, balancing efficacy and cosmetic outcomes.
Further information from the British Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (BAPRAS)
First class service
I would highly recommend the Waterfront Hospital. All members of staff I encountered were professional, kind and reassuring. I saw Dr Ben Aldridge and underwent a minor surgical procedure. From start to finish, the service was delivered to an extremely high standard. Many thanks.
A. Weddell
Nov 2023
