Removal and Reconstruction

Name: Removal and Reconstruction
Brand: Elanic Medical
Rating: 4.4 (137 reviews)

Skin cancer removal and reconstruction are ideal for patients who are interested in addressing the presence of skin cancer.

Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction Your Treatment Options

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with millions of new cases diagnosed every year. While early detection and treatment can often lead to successful outcomes, some cases may require the removal of the affected area, which can result in significant scarring and disfigurement. In such cases, reconstruction surgery may be necessary to restore the appearance and function of the affected area.

There are several methods of skin cancer removal and reconstruction, depending on the location and severity of the cancer. For smaller lesions, a simple excision may be sufficient, while larger or more complex cases may require Mohs surgery or other specialised techniques. Reconstruction may involve skin grafts, flaps, or other procedures to restore the affected area and minimise scarring.

Elanic Medical has spent the last 10 years earning a reputation for excellence in Glasgow and the surrounding areas, and our practitioners are excited to learn more about how they can help you overcome your skin cancer issues. We utilise the latest techniques and the most cutting-edge technology available, so you can look forward to truly exemplary results. To get started, reach out and set up your consultation today.

Surgical Cancer Removal Options

Skin cancer removal and reconstruction often involve surgical procedures that vary depending on the type, size, and location of the cancer.

Excisional Biopsy

An excisional biopsy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the entirety of the skin cancer along with a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it. This procedure is typically used for small skin cancers that have not spread to nearby tissues. After the skin cancer is removed, the wound is closed with stitches.

Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is a specialised surgical procedure that involves removing the skin cancer layer by layer, with each layer being examined under a microscope until all of the cancer cells are removed. This procedure is typically used for larger skin cancers.

Curettage and Electrodesiccation

Curettage and electrodesiccation involve scraping the skin cancer off the skin with a sharp instrument called a curette and can be ideal for smaller instances of skin cancer. After the cancer is removed, an electric needle is used to destroy any remaining cancer cells.

Laser Surgery

Laser surgery is a surgical procedure utilises a laser to remove the skin cancer, destroying the cancer cells while leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This procedure is typically used for small skin cancers that have not spread to nearby tissues.

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery is a surgical procedure that involves freezing the skin cancer with liquid nitrogen. The frozen tissue is then removed, and a scab forms over the wound. This procedure is typically used for small skin cancers that have not spread to nearby tissues.

Reconstruction Techniques

When skin cancer is removed, there is often a need for reconstruction to restore the appearance and function of the affected area. There are several techniques available, each with its own benefits and limitations.

Primary Closure

Primary closure is a simple technique used when the wound is small and can be closed with sutures or staples. This technique is often used for skin cancer removal on the face or neck, where scarring is a concern. The wound is closed immediately after the cancer is removed, and the scar is usually small and well-hidden.

Skin Grafting

Skin grafting involves taking a piece of skin from another part of the body and transplanting it to the area where the cancer was removed. This technique is often used for larger wounds or when the skin is too damaged to be closed with primary closure and can be done with either a split-thickness graft or a full-thickness graft.

Flap Reconstruction

Flap reconstruction is a technique that sees your surgeon taking skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from a nearby area and moving it to the site of the cancer removal and is often used for larger wounds or when skin grafting is not possible. Flap reconstruction can provide better cosmetic results than skin grafting and can also help restore function to the affected area.

Tissue Expansion

Tissue expansion utilises a balloon-like device placed under the skin near the affected area, which is gradually inflated with saline solution over several weeks. This stretches the skin and creates extra skin that can be used for reconstruction, especially for larger wounds or when flap reconstruction is not possible.