SKIN CANCER

Early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer will ensure the best possibilities for a complete and successful excision. In more sensitive areas like the face, a range of reconstructive plastic surgery techniques will be employed by Dr. Soteriou to ensure the preservation of facial aesthetics.

There are 3 main types of skin cancer and treatment depends on the type of cancer, its stage of growth and its location.

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common and least dangerous form of skin cancer. It affects mainly the facial area and tends to grow slowly and rarely spreads beyond its original site. It is a form of cancer that has a low rate of metastasis, and it is not usually life threatening. BCC’s are usually painless but may ulcerate and bleed as they get larger. It is typically a result of sun exposure.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It frequently appears on the lips, face or ears. It may sometimes spread to distant sites, including the lymph nodes and the internal organs.

Malignant Melanoma is the least common, and the most dangerous form of skin cancer. If discovered early enough, it can be completely cured. However, if not quickly treated, malignant melanoma may spread through the body and become life threatening.

THE PROCEDURE:

Procedures are performed under local anesthesia and sometimes in a more extended disease general anesthesia is needed. Histopathology results will ensure that the margins are tumor free.

Small skin defects can be closed directly with sutures, resulting in fine scars that follow the natural lines of the face. Larger soft tissue defects may require reconstruction with a skin graft or a local flap.