Reconstructive Surgery
Skin Cancer Surgery (Excision & Reconstruction)
Removing skin cancer and reconstructing the resulting defect
Overview
Surgical removal of skin cancer — most commonly basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) — involves two connected steps: excising the lesion with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue, and then reconstructing the resulting defect so the area heals well both functionally and cosmetically.
Because skin cancer commonly develops on the face, ears, and scalp, reconstruction is planned with particular care around the eyes, nose, ears, and mouth, choosing between direct closure, a skin graft, or a local flap depending on the size, depth, and location of the defect left behind.
Candidacy
Is Skin Cancer Surgery (Excision & Reconstruction) Right for You?
- A biopsy-confirmed or strongly suspected basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma
- A skin lesion that has changed in size, colour, or texture, or that bleeds or fails to heal
- Previous skin cancer requiring re-excision or reconstruction of a prior defect
- Fit for the anaesthesia and reconstructive approach appropriate to the lesion's size and site
What to Expect
Your Journey
- 01
Assessment
Clinical examination of the lesion, often alongside a prior biopsy result, to plan the excision margin and the most appropriate reconstructive approach.
- 02
Excision & Reconstruction
The lesion is excised with a margin of healthy tissue, usually sent for pathology to confirm clear margins, and the defect is closed directly or reconstructed with a graft or local flap in the same or a staged procedure.
- 03
Recovery
Wound care and scar management follow the same general timeline as other reconstructive surgery, with the histopathology result guiding whether any further treatment is needed.
Recovery
Recovery & Aftercare
Healing time depends on the reconstruction method used — a direct closure or small flap generally settles over a few weeks, while a skin graft needs a more protected early healing period before it's fully secure. Your surgeon will confirm the histopathology result and advise on any follow-up surveillance needed afterward.
Case Gallery
Documented Cases
Graphic Medical Content
This gallery contains real surgical photography and clinical documentation, including open wounds, incisions, and traumatic injuries. It is shared for educational and professional purposes. Viewer discretion is advised.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the whole cancer removed in one operation?
Usually, yes — the excision margin is planned to fully remove the lesion, with the specimen sent to pathology to confirm clear margins. In some cases, coverage of a large defect is deliberately staged until margin clearance is confirmed.
Why does reconstruction technique matter so much for facial skin cancer?
Defects near the eyes, nose, and mouth need careful planning to avoid pulling on these structures during healing, and reconstruction is planned to work with natural skin creases wherever possible to minimise visible scarring.
What happens if the margins aren't clear on pathology?
If residual cancer cells are found at the margin, further excision is usually recommended — your surgical team will discuss next steps based on the specific pathology result.
More on Skin Cancer Surgery (Excision & Reconstruction)
Have Questions About Skin Cancer Surgery (Excision & Reconstruction)?
Every case is different. Get in touch to discuss your situation, or keep reading for more on candidacy, recovery, and what to expect.
All Procedures