Skin Cancer

What is this procedure?

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. It is one of the most common forms of cancer in Australia and often occurs when skin cells are exposed to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Skin cancers can vary greatly in appearance; however, many start as small skin changes, such as lumps, discolouration or sores, that may increase in size over time.

Any new, changing or concerning skin abnormalities should be assessed first by your general practitioner (GP). Your GP can then refer you to a plastic surgeon or another specialist if surgical treatment is considered clinically appropriate. If left untreated, some skin cancers may infiltrate underlying tissue or spread to other parts of the body.

Types of skin cancer and related lesions

There are three main types of skin cancer, as well as pre-cancerous lesions that may require assessment and management.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and is generally considered the least aggressive form. It usually occurs in areas of long-term sun exposure, especially the face, head, neck and upper body. BCCs often appear as a pearly lump that may look like a flesh-coloured mole or pimple and may occasionally bleed. BCCs tend to grow slowly over months to years and rarely spread beyond their original site, but if left untreated they can grow deeper into the skin and involve underlying tissue and, in some cases, bone.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the next most common form of skin cancer. It generally grows faster than BCC and is more often seen in older adults. SCC commonly appears on areas that receive a lot of sunlight, such as the head and neck, hands and forearms. It often presents as a red, scaly, thickened spot or lump that can break down, bleed and ulcerate. SCCs are usually considered more serious than BCCs because they have a higher potential to spread to other parts of the body if not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.

Melanoma

Melanoma is less common than BCC and SCC but is generally regarded as the most serious type of skin cancer. Melanoma can occur on any part of the body, including areas that have not been exposed to the sun. It can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new brown, red or black spot that changes in size, shape or colour over time. Melanoma may be curable when diagnosed and managed early, but it can spread throughout the body and become life-threatening if left untreated.

Melanoma in situ / Stage 0 Melanoma

Melanoma in situ (Stage 0 Melanoma) refers to melanoma cells that are confined to the top layer of the skin. At this stage, the abnormal cells have not grown into deeper layers of the skin. Melanoma in situ is often managed with wide local surgical excision to remove the lesion with an appropriate margin of normal-looking skin, as recommended by clinical guidelines.

Solar / Actinic Keratoses (Sunspots)

Solar or actinic keratoses (often called sunspots) are pre-cancerous skin growths that may, in some cases, progress to SCC. They commonly appear as rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed skin. Reducing sun exposure and using sensible sun protection measures, such as broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing and shade, can help reduce the risk of developing these lesions. Solar keratoses should be assessed so that appropriate monitoring or treatment can be arranged if required.

Additional information and images

Clinical photographs, including before and after images, may be available in consultation to help explain the nature of skin cancer surgery and typical scarring. Any images used are of real patients treated by the surgeon, are not digitally altered in a way that could mislead, and are presented with the patient’s informed consent, in line with current Australian health advertising guidance.

General educational information about skin surgery, including factors that may influence pricing, treatment options, possible side effects and recovery, can be discussed in detail during your consultation. Online resources provided by the practice are intended as general information and are not a substitute for personalised medical advice from a qualified health practitioner.

What can be achieved?

Skin cancers may be managed through different treatment methods depending on the type of lesion, its stage, its exact location on the body and your overall health. For many skin cancers, surgery is recommended to remove the cancerous tissue with an appropriate margin of normal-looking skin. Where necessary, reconstructive techniques can then be used to repair the defect, support wound healing and aim for an outcome that is both safe and functionally and cosmetically acceptable, recognising that results and scarring vary between individuals.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.