Skin Cancer Treatment
Skin Cancer Treatment:
Excision and Reconstruction Options in Cape Town
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Cape Town, but there’s good news: it’s also highly treatable, especially when caught early. Often, the first line of defence is surgical excision, which involves removing the cancerous tissue.
However, depending on the size, location, and type of the cancer, some patients may also require reconstruction surgery to restore function and appearance.
However, depending on the size, location, and type of the cancer, some patients may also require reconstruction surgery to restore function and appearance.
Excision Techniques for Skin Cancer
Surgical Excision:
This is the most common method, where a surgeon removes the cancerous tissue with a margin of healthy surrounding skin. This margin ensures complete removal of the cancer and minimises the risk of recurrence.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery:
This specialised technique offers a higher cure rate and is particularly beneficial for cancers on the face, ears, hands, feet, or genitals, where preserving healthy tissue is crucial. Mohs surgery involves removing thin layers of tissue one at a time, with each layer examined microscopically until clear margins are achieved. This meticulous approach ensures complete cancer removal while minimising the amount of healthy tissue removed.
Flap Surgery:
Skin Reconstruction Techniques in Cape Town
Once the cancerous tissue is excised, reconstruction surgery may be necessary to restore function and improve cosmetic outcome.
Here are some common reconstruction techniques:
Here are some common reconstruction techniques:
Skin Grafting:
This involves removing healthy skin from another area of the body, called the donor site, and transplanting it to the surgical site. There are different types of grafts depending on the depth of skin needed. Split-thickness grafts are ideal for resurfacing large areas, while full-thickness grafts are used for areas requiring more structural support, such as the nose or chin.
Local Flaps:
This technique utilises nearby healthy skin to cover the defect left by excision. Local flaps are preferable when possible as they maintain natural skin texture, function, and blood supply. There are various types of local flaps, depending on the location and size of the defect. For example, a rotation flap involves rotating adjacent skin to cover the defect, while an advancement flap involves stretching nearby skin to reach the surgical site.
Choosing the Right Treatment
The best course of treatment for your skin cancer will depend on various factors, including:
Type and size of the cancer:
Different types of skin cancer respond better to specific excision and reconstruction techniques.
Location of the cancer:
Cancers on the face, hands, or feet require more meticulous reconstruction to preserve function and appearance.
Depth of the cancer:
Deeper cancers may necessitate more extensive reconstruction to restore underlying structures.
Overall health:
Your overall health and ability to tolerate surgery will be considered when determining the most suitable treatment approach.
A dermatologist or plastic surgeon specialising in skin cancer will discuss all the options with you in detail, taking into account your individual needs and preferences. They will explain the different excision and reconstruction techniques, potential risks and benefits, and the expected recovery process.
Beyond Aesthetics:
Benefits of Reconstruction in Cape Town
Skin cancer reconstruction offers several advantages beyond simply closing the wound:
Improved cosmetic outcome:
Reconstruction can minimise scarring and create a more natural appearance, which can significantly boost self-esteem and quality of life.
Restored function:
Depending on the location of the cancer, reconstruction can help regain functionality in the affected area. For example, reconstruction of the eyelids may restore proper eye closure, while reconstruction of the ear may improve hearing.
Increased confidence:
Reconstruction can significantly improve a patient’s self-esteem and quality of life. By minimising the visible signs of cancer treatment, reconstruction can help patients feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance.
Finding a Qualified Doctor
If you require skin cancer excision and reconstruction, it’s crucial to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in these procedures. Look for an expert who can explain the process thoroughly, address your concerns, and create a personalised treatment plan that prioritises both complete cancer removal and optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes. Some reputable plastic surgeons in Cape Town specialising in skin cancer reconstruction include Dr. Louise De Lange.
Early Detection is Key
Remember, early detection is key to successful skin cancer treatment. Schedule regular skin cancer screenings with your doctor, typically once a year. Additionally, practice sun safety measures to minimise your risk of developing skin cancer.
This includes seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm), wearing sun-protective clothing with a UPF rating of 50 or higher, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. By being proactive about sun protection and scheduling regular skin checks, you can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer and ensure the best possible outcome if it does develop.
This includes seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm), wearing sun-protective clothing with a UPF rating of 50 or higher, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. By being proactive about sun protection and scheduling regular skin checks, you can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer and ensure the best possible outcome if it does develop.
