Skin Cancer
Skin Cancer Overview
As a specialist Head & Neck Surgeon with a subspeciality in facial plastic surgery, Dr Griffin is committed to restoring both your health and appearance with precision and expertise. Here, we provide essential information about skin cancer, its treatment, and the bespoke reconstruction techniques he offers.
General Indications for Skin Cancer
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with over 750,000 cases diagnosed annually. This staggering statistic underscores the importance of vigilance in sun protection and regular skin checks. The primary types of skin cancer prevalent in Australia include:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common form of skin cancer, often appearing as a pearly bump or a pinkish patch.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): The second most common type, typically manifesting as a red, scaly spot or a rapidly growing lump.
- Melanoma: Although less common, melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and requires immediate attention. It may present as an irregularly shaped mole with uneven colouring or size.
Skin Cancer Operation
When diagnosed with skin cancer, timely and effective treatment is crucial. The process typically involves:
- Clinical Examination: Dr Griffin conducts a comprehensive examination of the affected area, assessing its size, depth, and location.
- Biopsy and Histology: A small tissue sample is taken from the suspicious lesion for examination under a microscope. This biopsy determines the type and extent of the cancer. (Your GP may perform this step prior to your referral)
- Surgical Removal: Using advanced surgical techniques, Dr Griffin excises the cancerous tissue with precision, ensuring complete removal while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
- Clinical Margins: To minimise the risk of recurrence, a safe margin of healthy tissue around the tumour is also removed. This ensures that no cancerous cells are left behind.
- Histological Examination: The removed tissue is sent for further analysis to confirm that all cancerous cells have been eliminated, providing peace of mind for our patients.
Bespoke Reconstruction
Dr Griffin understands that skin cancer removal, especially on the face, can have profound aesthetic implications. That’s why he specialises in bespoke reconstruction techniques tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our approach emphasizes:
- Precision and Skill: Dr Griffin employs advanced surgical techniques to achieve optimal results, minimizing scarring and restoring natural contours.
- Artistry and Symmetry: Whether it’s a delicate closure or a complex flap reconstruction, our goal is to restore symmetry and harmony to your facial features, ensuring a seamless outcome.
- Patient-Centered Care: Throughout the reconstruction process, we prioritise open communication and personalised care, guiding you every step of the way to ensure your comfort and satisfaction.
Schedule your consultation today
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer and are considering reconstruction, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation with Dr Griffin to discuss your options and embark on your skin cancer journey.
Surgical Risk Disclaimer
Please note that all surgical procedures carry risks, including the possibility of complications during and after surgery.
While high standards of medical care and safety are always our priority, individual results and recovery times may vary. Each patient’s experience is unique based on their medical history, condition, and other factors. We strongly encourage you to discuss any concerns and the specific risks related to your procedure with Dr Griffin during your consultation. This discussion will provide you with detailed information tailored to your personal health profile and help you make an informed decision.
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalised diagnosis and treatment.
General Risks
- Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, which can occur at the site of excision or in surrounding tissue.
- Bleeding: While rare, excessive bleeding can occur during or after surgery, requiring intervention.
- Pain: Discomfort or pain may occur following the procedure, although this is typically managed with medication.
- Incomplete removal: There’s a possibility of not completely removing all cancerous cells, leading to recurrence.
Anesthetic Risks (apply to general anaesthetic predominantly)
- Allergic reactions: Some patients may have allergic reactions to anesthesia, although this is rare.
- Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can occur as side effects of anesthesia.
- Respiratory issues: Anesthesia can temporarily affect breathing, particularly in patients with underlying respiratory conditions.
Direct Closure
- Noticeable scarring: Depending on the size and location of the wound, scarring may be more visible.
- Facial distortion: In some cases, direct closure can lead to changes in facial features, particularly if the lesion is in a prominent area.
Skin Grafting
- Colour mismatch: The grafted skin may not perfectly match the surrounding skin in colour, leading to a noticeable difference.
- Texture differences: The texture of the grafted skin may not match the surrounding skin, resulting in an uneven appearance.
- Graft failure: In some cases, the graft may not fully adhere to the wound, leading to partial or complete failure.
- Donor site scar (skin grafts require a separate site on the body and therefore a separate scar)
Skin Flap Reconstruction
- Blood flow complications: There’s a risk of blood flow issues to the flap, which can lead to tissue death and the need for additional surgery.
- Temporary numbness: The area where the flap is taken from may experience temporary numbness, which typically resolves over time.
- Longer recovery: Compared to other methods, skin flap reconstruction may require a longer recovery period due to the nature of the procedure.
