With early detection and effective treatment, skin cancer has a very high cure rate. Even melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, can be cured with early detection and treatment. If a melanoma is detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes, there is a 5-year survival rate of 99%. However, once the melanoma has spread the outcome can be devastating. 

Treatment for a skin cancer in its early stages can generally be performed in doctors rooms with a local (affects only the area to be treated) anaesthesia. Additional treatments may not be required. Not seeking treatment as soon as possible can allow the growth to increase in size which will then require more extensive treatment. Even if the skin cancer is only slow growing as if often the case with basal cell carcinomas, treatment can still require removing a significant amount of skin and tissue from the area. This is of particular concern if the cancer is located on delicate and highly visible areas such as the face, head and neck.

Early treatment generally involves removing the entire growth and a margin of normal-looking skin. This helps to ensure that cancerous cells are removed. The treated skin often heals with minimal scarring. If the cancer is allowed to progress treatment options become more difficult which often leads to increased cosmetic affect. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma can invade and destroy nearby tissue. If this happens, treatment can be difficult, especially on the head and neck. In this case the doctor then must consider the potential for a cure; possible effects on the eye, ear, or nose; and the patient’s physical appearance after treatment.

If your doctor suspects that a mole or other lesion could be skin cancer, it is essential not to delay diagnosis and treatment. Skin cancer can be easily treated if detected early. Speak with your doctor about the best treatment options for you.

Kind Regards

Dr Ian Katz