Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged, the most common cause being overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
There are three main types of skin cancer:
● Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
● Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
● Melanoma
Both BCC and SCC are known as non-melanoma skin cancer. The most common areas affected are the head, face and neck, however skin cancers are seen all over the body.
Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with two in three Australians being diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70.
The sooner a skin cancer is identified and treated, the better your chance of avoiding or minimising surgery. It is a good idea to talk to your doctor or dermatologist about your level of risk and advice on early detection.
Become familiar with your skin so you pick up any changes that might suggest skin cancer including crusting or non-healing sores; lumps that are red, pale or pearly in colour; and spots, freckles or moles changing in appearance over time.
See your doctor if you notice any changes in your skin. They may perform a biopsy (small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope) or refer you to a specialist if skin cancer is suspected.
Skin cancers are almost always removed. Some can be removed with cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen), curettage (scraping) or cautery (burning), however many skin cancers require surgical removal. Depending on the type, size and location of the skin cancer, reconstructive surgery may be required.
Considering the most common areas for skin cancer are the head, face and neck, the knowledge, skill and experience of a specialist plastic surgeon is integral to achieving the optimal outcome in terms of cancer clearance and cosmetic result.
Small skin cancer surgery and reconstruction can be performed by Dr Tolerton under local anaesthetic at the onsite facilities of Randwick Plastic Surgery. Larger more complex skin cancer are likely to be removed and reconstructed in a hospital setting, usually as a day case.
