Skin cancer surgery offers effective treatment for removing cancerous growths and preventing their spread. Understanding the available options, their techniques, and recovery processes can help you feel more prepared to discuss them with a healthcare provider. Here are some typical types of skin cancer surgeries, each with its customized approach and practical recovery insights:
Excisional Surgery
Excisional surgery is one standard method for treating skin cancer. Doctors remove the cancerous tissue along with a margin of surrounding healthy skin. This margin helps reduce the likelihood of any remaining cancerous cells. They typically apply an anesthetic before the procedure to minimize discomfort during surgery.
The excised tissue is sent to a laboratory for analysis to confirm that all cancer cells have been removed. This skin cancer surgery is used to treat basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, as well as for melanoma in its early stages. After the procedure, doctors carefully close the wound with stitches.
Mohs Surgery
Doctors use Mohs surgery to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible. Medical professionals typically use it on visible or sensitive areas, such as the face, ears, or hands. During the procedure, they remove thin layers of skin one at a time and examine them under a microscope until they confirm no cancer cells remain. Although this meticulous technique may take longer than other surgeries, its high accuracy results in better cure rates.
Recovery from Mohs surgery depends on the size and depth of the treated area. For smaller wounds, they either heal naturally or are closed with simple stitches. Larger wounds may require reconstructive techniques. After surgery, mild swelling and bruising may occur around the site, but these effects typically subside within a few days.
Curettage Surgery
Curettage and electrodesiccation offer a minimally invasive approach to treating certain superficial skin cancers. Surgeons scrape away the cancerous tissue with a sharp tool called a curette. After scraping, they use a device that delivers mild electrical currents to destroy any remaining cancer cells and control any bleeding.
This procedure is typically performed in a single session and is well-suited for early-stage cancers or precancerous lesions. Since curettage and electrodesiccation target surface-level growths, scarring is usually minimal. Some discoloration of the skin may occur. Healing may take a few weeks, during which regular wound care is recommended to prevent infection.
Recovery Tips
Regardless of the type of surgery, proper postoperative care is fundamental for a successful recovery and healing. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider to promote better recovery. Here are general tips to go over after your procedure:
- Wound Care: Keep the surgical area clean and covered as instructed. Replace bandages regularly to reduce the risk of infection.
- Avoid Straining the Area: Refrain from engaging in strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects that could strain the surgical site.
- Protect Your Skin: Use sunscreen and protective clothing to safeguard the area from sun exposure.
- Watch for Complications: Contact your doctor if you notice signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or unusual drainage.
These steps help restore your skin while minimizing discomfort.
Book a Consultation for Skin Cancer Surgery
Skin cancer surgeries, whether excisional, Mohs, or curettage with electrodesiccation, provide reliable ways to treat and manage cancer. Doctors customize each treatment to different types of cancer and specific locations on the body. Recovery is a collaborative process in which small steps taken after surgery lead to long-term health benefits. Reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss which options align with your specific diagnosis and treatment goals.