Understanding Skin Cancer Procedures: What You Need to Know

Millions of individuals all around the world are impacted by skin cancer, which is a severe health issue. When diagnosed, undergoing a skin cancer procedure is often necessary to remove the cancerous growth and prevent its spread. Here's what you need to know about these procedures:

1. Diagnosis and Assessment: Before any procedure, a thorough skin cancer check in Turramurra is conducted. A dermatologist examines the suspicious area and may perform a biopsy to determine if it's cancerous and, if so, its type and stage.
2. Surgical Excision: One of the most common skin cancer procedures is surgical excision. During this procedure, the cancerous growth is removed along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. The wound is then closed with stitches, leaving a scar that generally fades over time.
3. Curettage and Electrodesiccation: This procedure involves scraping the cancerous tissue with a curette (a spoon-shaped tool) and then using an electric current to burn the remaining cancer cells. It's commonly used for superficial skin cancers.
4. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the cancer cells using liquid nitrogen. The frozen tissue eventually falls off, and new, healthy skin forms in its place. This method is often used for precancerous lesions or very thin, early-stage skin cancers.
5. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy can sometimes be used to find and kill cancer cells. This is more common for patients who cannot undergo surgery or have certain types of skin cancer.
6. Aftercare and Monitoring: Following a skin cancer procedure, proper wound care is essential to promote healing and minimize scarring. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your recovery and ensure that no new cancerous growths develop.

If you suspect any abnormalities on your skin or have a family history of skin cancer, it's essential to consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation. The likelihood of successful treatment and recovery can be considerably increased with early intervention.