Skin cancer removals

Skin lesions such as naevi (moles) and lipomas (lumps of fatty tissue), and skin cancers can be assessed and removed at the Epping practice. All specimens are sent to pathology for diagnosis, allowing us to give the patients the appropriate follow-up.

Three main types of skin cancer

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer. Lesions usually develops on the head, neck and upper body. Some appear on the arms and legs. The are slow growing, red or pale in colour and small, round or flattened in shape. If left untreated, they may grow deeper into the skin and damage nearby tissue. This may make treatment more difficult and increase the chance of the skin cancer coming back.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer and is most common in people aged over 50. Lesions usually appears on the head, neck, hands and forearms and less frequently on the upper body or the legs. Lesions have the appearance of thickened red, scaly spots, which tend to bleed easily. SCC's grow quickly over several months and can spread to other parts of the body. Lesions on the lips or the ears have a high risk of spreading and should be addressed immediately.

Melanoma

Although one of rarer forms of skin cancer, melanoma is one of the most serious. Lesions can appear as a new spot, or be from an existing freckle or mole. Any change in the appearance of a mole such as itching, bleeding, a change in colour or a change in size should be attended to immediately. Melanoma is best treated when diagnosed early.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. The information provided here is for general educational purposes only. If you would like to know more, please contact us on (02) 9868 5155 to arrange an appointment or e-mail any enquiries to Dr Peter Haertsch.