Who is this procedure for?
This procedure is for patients with a diagnosed or suspected skin cancer.
A lesion can be removed after a biopsy confirming malignancy.
Some cancers require prompt surgery to limit the risk of local spread.
You will always receive an individualized assessment before any surgical decision.
Removal of skin cancers is part of dermatological surgery, which also covers benign lesions.
Consultation process
The consultation involves a precise dermatological clinical examination.
Results from biopsies or previous tests are reviewed.
The surgical strategy takes into account current medical recommendations.
The procedure details and expected outcomes are clearly explained.
Preparation steps
A histological confirmation always precedes surgery.
Additional tests may be requested depending on the type of cancer.
The technical choice aims for complete excision with appropriate margins.
A detailed estimate outlines the planned procedures and coverage conditions.
The procedure in practice
Anesthesia, duration, hospitalization
The procedure is most often performed under local anesthesia.
The duration depends on the tumor size and location.
Hospitalization is generally not necessary.
In certain complex situations, the procedure may take place in a specialized surgical facility.
Main technical principles
Excision respects defined safety margins according to the type of cancer.
Skin closure prioritizes appropriate reconstructive techniques.
Flaps or skin grafts may be considered if necessary.
The surgical specimen is always sent for pathological analysis.
Post-operative care
The recovery is most often simple and well-managed.
Moderate local discomfort may occur in the first few days.
Precise scar care instructions are provided.
Post-operative follow-up verifies good healing and the absence of local recurrence.
Results and scars
The expected result is the complete eradication of the skin cancer.
Scar healing progresses gradually over several weeks.
The scar depends on the operated area and the closure technique.
Regular follow-up assesses satisfaction and the long-term outcome.
Risks and possible complications
Complications remain possible despite all precautions.
These include infection, bleeding, delayed healing, or a visible scar.
The risk of local recurrence depends on the type of cancer and its initial stage.
Transparent information is provided at every stage of the care process.
Fees and coverage
Surgery for skin cancers is based on a medical indication.
Coverage by Social Security may apply depending on the situation.
Certain specific reconstructive procedures may incur additional fees.
A precise estimate is provided to you before any procedure.
The different types of skin cancer surgery
- Excision of basal cell carcinomas : Basal cell carcinoma excision corresponds to the surgical removal of a malignant skin tumor originating from the basal cells of the epidermis.
- Excision of squamous cell carcinomas : The excision of squamous cell carcinomas aims to remove a malignant skin tumor developed from the keratinocytes of the epidermis.
- Excision of melanomas (with safety margins) : The excision of melanomas with safety margins aims to remove a malignant skin tumor with a surrounding area of healthy tissue.
- Skin biopsy : A skin biopsy consists of taking a skin sample to perform an anatomopathological analysis in the laboratory.
