Skin and Melanoma Surgery

Why Skin Cancer Treatment Matters

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Nearly 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer by the age of 70. Early detection and expert surgical care are essential for effective treatment and prevention of complications.

Types of Skin Cancer and Surgical Options

Dr Noushi treats both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Small skin cancers are often removed under local anaesthetic in our minor operating suite. This eliminates the need for hospital admission. Larger or more aggressive tumours may require wide local excision, often followed by reconstructive surgery using a skin graft or flap to ensure good healing and cosmetic outcome.

Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma, are usually treated with surgical removal and have a high cure rate. Melanomas are treated with wider excision margins, and in some cases, sentinel lymph node biopsy may be needed to assess for spread.

For larger or complex excisions, reconstructive techniques such as local flaps or skin grafts are used to restore appearance and function. We also offer guidance on scar management and access to cosmetic support services to help patients feel confident after surgery.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB)

SLNB is a minimally invasive procedure used to check if melanoma has spread to nearby lymph nodes. If the sentinel node (the first node draining the cancer area) contains cancer, further lymph node surgery may be required. This information helps determine the stage of the melanoma and guides further treatment decisions.

What to Expect Before, During & After Surgery

Most procedures are performed under local anaesthesia on an outpatient basis. You will be advised on preoperative instructions and postoperative wound care. Pain is usually minimal and recovery is quick for small excisions.

Patients undergoing more extensive procedures or sentinel node biopsy may require day surgery or a short hospital stay. Full instructions on activity restrictions and wound care will be provided.

Recovery and Long-Term Follow-Up

Following surgery, regular follow-up is important to monitor for any signs of recurrence and to manage skin health long term. We will schedule routine checks and provide advice on sun protection, self-examination, and preventive skin care.