Skin Cancer and Surgeries: What You Need to Know
What is Skin Cancer and Who is More Likely to Get It?
Skin cancers are more commonly seen in individuals with fair skin, those who spend prolonged periods of time outdoors, those chronically exposed to chemicals, and those with a family history of skin cancer. Additionally, individuals who easily develop freckles or moles on their skin may also have an increased risk of skin cancer.
This disease usually manifests with sores, lesions, or abnormal appearances on the skin. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent the progression of skin cancer.
What is Skin Cancer Surgery?
Skin cancer surgery is a procedure in which cancerous cells, lesions, and surrounding unhealthy tissues are surgically removed, and the skin is reconstructed to restore its health. These surgeries aim to prevent the spread of cancerous tissues and protect the patient’s skin health.
The scope of the operation varies depending on the size, location, and degree of cancer spread. Skin cancer surgery is usually performed under local or general anesthesia and has a high success rate.
Skin Cancer Treatment Methods
Skin cancers can be controlled not only through surgical methods but also with treatments like localized chemotherapy, radiotherapy, curettage, and cryotherapy. However, not all patients may respond to these non-invasive methods. Treatment should be planned based on the patient’s overall health, the speed of cancer spread, its size, and location.
How is Skin Cancer Reconstructive Surgery Performed?
- Simple Excision: For small and localized lesions, cancerous cells are removed with a simple surgical excision, and the tissue is closed to complete the procedure.
- Advanced Surgery with Frozen Tissue Sections: In some cases, cancerous cells may spread to the deeper layers of the skin. In such cases, surgeons use frozen tissue sections to determine the boundaries of the cancerous tissue. The tissue removal continues until clear margins are identified through rapid pathological examination.
Open wounds created after the surgery are closed with skin grafts taken from the patient’s healthy tissue or other reconstructive surgical techniques.
Why Should Skin Cancer Surgery Be Preferred?
- It ensures the complete removal of cancerous cells.
- It prevents the spread of cancer.
- It helps avoid dramatic changes in the skin.
- It has a high success rate.
Skin Cancer Surgery Aftercare and Recovery Process
After skin cancer surgeries, there is a possibility of minimal scarring. However, with regular follow-up and proper skin care, the recovery process can be accelerated.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is a disease that can be prevented and controlled with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods. Surgical intervention is an effective method for preserving the patient’s overall health and preventing the spread of cancer.
For more information about skin cancer and to consult with our experts, feel free to contact us.
