Skin Cancer Surgery

Skin Cancer Surgery Brisbane

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, despite it being one of the most preventable cancers. Anyone can be at risk of developing skin cancer in their lifetime, though the risk increases as you get older.

Approximately two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer during their lifetime, and when exposed to UV radiation, it doesn’t take long for skin damage including sunburn to occur, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. In fact, over-exposure to UV radiation causes up to 95% of melanomas.

Living in Brisbane, and sunny Queensland, we are regularly exposed to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer, therefore, early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for successful skin cancer removal outcomes.

Dr. Milap Rughani is a highly experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Brisbane, and offers comprehensive skin cancer surgery services at Brisbane Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery tailored to the needs of patients across south-east Queensland.

What is Skin Cancer Surgery?

Skin cancer surgery is a common and effective treatment for removing cancerous lesions while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The type of procedure required depends on the size, location, and type of skin cancer, as well as individual patient factors.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr. Milap Rughani is highly experienced in skin cancer surgery often performs skin cancer procedures to achieve both complete cancer removal and optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes, particularly for lesions in visible or delicate areas such as the face, neck, or hands. In some cases, reconstructive techniques such as skin grafts or local tissue flaps may be used to restore the appearance and function of the affected area.

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or have concerns about a skin lesion, a consultation with a specialist plastic surgeon can help determine the most appropriate treatment and approach for management.

Medicare rebates are generally available for skin lesion and skin cancer excision procedures at Brisbane Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery. To qualify for Medicare rebates, all patients are required to obtain a GP referral prior to attending a consultation.

Who gets skin cancer and why?

Skin cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. In Australia, where sun exposure is high, understanding risk factors and taking preventive measures is crucial for maintaining optimum skin health.

Common factors that can increase the risk of developing skin cancer include:

Excessive Sun Exposure: The primary cause of skin cancer is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which is abundant in Australia, especially in coastal communities such as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast and across south-east Queensland

Fair Skin: Individuals with fair skin that develops freckles easily, light-coloured hair, and light eyes have less melanin and are more susceptible to UV damage

Multiple or Atypical Moles: A large number of moles or unusual-sized or shaped moles can increase the risk of developing skin cancer

Family History: Genetics can play a significant role in the likelihood of developing skin cancer

Outdoor Lifestyle: Spending a lot of time outdoors without adequate sun protection heightens exposure and risk

Previous Radiation Treatments: Therapeutic radiation treatments, such as those for adolescent acne, can increase risk

Early detection is key— and regular skin examinations are essential in detecting skin cancer in it’s early stages. If you notice new, changing, or unusual skin lesions, it is imperative to seek advice from a specialist plastic surgeon or dermatologist for assessment and possible treatment.

The sooner a skin cancer is identified and treated, the better the chance of avoiding surgery or, in the case of a serious melanoma or other skin cancer, potential disfigurement or even death.

Additionally, adopting sun protection measures can significantly lower the risk of developing severe skin cancer. This includes using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimise exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays.

Why see Dr. Milap Rughani

Dr. Milap Rughani has extensive experience in treating all forms of skin lesions and cancers from straightforward excision to more complex dissections and reconstructive cases, as well as performing major surgery for trauma cases, all tailored to the needs of his patients.

Dr. Rughani specialises in advanced skin cancers of the face, neck and head, where they have spread extensively, but still have the possibility to be cured and treated surgically. He treats all melanomas including the related lymph node dissections.

Dr Rughani has always been passionate about skin cancer and is currently leading a study on scalp Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCCs) in Queensland, with active research interests including; Melanoma, advanced SCC, and in Facial and Scalp reconstruction.

Types of Skin Lesions

Skin lesions are abnormalities or changes in the skin that may be benign (non-cancerous), pre-cancerous, or malignant (cancerous). Each of these types of skin lesions will require different levels of attention and treatment and it is important to stay aware of any skin abnormalities.

A thorough assessment by a qualified healthcare professional is essential to determine the appropriate course of treatment. Below are the common types of skin lesions that may require evaluation and potential surgical intervention and management.

Benign Lesions:

Benign lesions are non-cancerous growths with no risk of developing into cancer. These may include:

• Moles – Common skin growths that are typically harmless
• Skin Tags – Small, soft pieces of skin that protrude on a thin stalk
• Cysts & Other Lumps – Non-cancerous growths beneath the skin

While generally harmless, these lesions may be removed for cosmetic reasons or if they cause irritation or discomfort.

Pre-Cancerous Lesions:

Pre-cancerous lesions show early changes that could progress to skin cancer if left untreated. Examples of pre-cancerous lesions include:

• Actinic Keratoses – Rough, scaly patches caused by prolonged sun exposure
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Situ (Bowen’s Disease) – An early form of SCC confined to the outer layer of the skin

Early intervention is essential with pre-cancerous lesions, with treatment options such as topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), or surgical removal to prevent progression to cancer.

Cancerous Lesions:

Cancerous lesions are malignant growths that require urgent treatment due to their potential to spread and cause significant health risks. The three primary types of skin cancer in Australia are:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – The most common and slow-growing type
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – Can grow deeper and spread if untreated
• Melanoma – The most aggressive type, requiring prompt medical attention

Each type varies in severity and treatment approach, but early diagnosis and intervention are critical for the best possible outcome.

Three Types of Skin Cancer

While there a numerous types of skin cancers that can occur all over the body, the three main types of skin cancers Dr. Rughani treats regularly are:

Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCCs):

Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are the most common type of skin cancer and are typically found on the face, ears, neck, scalp, legs, and back. They rarely spread but can invade deeply if left untreated for too long. While some early BCCs can be managed without surgery, the majority are best treated through surgical excision.

Characteristics:

• Pearly or waxy bumps, often flesh-coloured or pink.
• May have visible blood vessels or central ulceration.
• Commonly appears on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, neck, and hands.
• May bleed easily and not heal properly.

Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCCs):

Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are the second most common type of skin cancer and are more aggressive than BCCs. Although the majority of SCCs do not spread, they can occasionally spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph glands.

Characteristics:

• Firm, red nodules or flat lesions with a scaly, crusted surface.
• Often develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and backs of the hands.
• May develop from pre-cancerous lesions like actinic keratoses.

Melanoma:

Melanoma typically presents as a dark lesion and is a highly aggressive form of skin cancer. If detected early and surgically removed, it can be cured. However, if detected late, melanoma may spread to nearby lymph glands or other organs. All melanomas are treated with surgical excision, and sometimes the nearby lymph nodes are also removed. Patients with melanoma require long-term monitoring to check for cancer recurrence.

Characteristics:

• May develop from an existing mole or appear as a new spot.
• Features asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colours, and larger diameter.
• Can occur anywhere on the body, not just sun-exposed areas.
• Follows the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter over 6mm, Evolving shape or size.