It can affect anyone
Skin cancer can happen to anyone. There are different forms of skin cancer. The most common skin cancers are the basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. They locally aggressive and needs removal with a margin. Luckily they rarely spread elsewhere in the body (metastasis). The third most common skin cancer is the melanoma, which is not only locally aggressive but easily spreads in the body. It can form metastasis on many places in the body. Therefore early detection is of utmost importance.
Everyone who has multiple moles or pigmented spots should have them checked yearly at the dermatologist. That means nearly everyone.
These are the signs and symptoms of skin cancer you have to look out for. When you notice changes in your moles or you have an ulcer, wound or red nodule appearing that does not heal, then don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your dermatologist.
When the dermatologist suspects a possibly malign skin cancer, then the first step will be to have a biopsie taken. After examination under the microscope a definitive diagnosis can be made.
Depending on the type of skin cancer, a margin of healthy tissue needs to be removed around the tumor. In the face this often leads to defects that are too large to close primarily. As a result I specialize in reconstruction of these facial defects. In many cases this can be done under local anesthesia.
In some cases additional removal of the lymph nodes in the neck region is necessary. Because of the extent, this is usually done under general anesthesia.
I will take time to listen to your worries, explain and guide you through all necessary steps when you have a diagnosis of skin cancer.