Skin Cancer Surgery

Skin Cancer Surgery in Toowoomba

Specialist skin cancer surgery focused on local care and personal follow-up is available for patients in Toowoomba. Skin cancer, including melanoma, is prevalent in Queensland, and while many cases can be addressed with straightforward procedures, some necessitate more complex surgical intervention. At Darling Downs Surgical Oncology (DDSO), Dr Peter O'Donohue specializes in providing surgical treatment for various skin cancers, including basal cell carcinomas (BCC), squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), and melanoma treatment across Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. From smaller skin cancers that can be removed under local anaesthetic to more intricate procedures that require reconstruction, Dr O'Donohue emphasizes individualized surgical planning and coordinated postoperative care.

Understanding Skin Cancer Surgery

Surgery is a common treatment for skin cancer, including melanoma treatment, which involves removing the cancer along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue.

The recommended procedure will depend on the type, size, depth, and location of the skin cancer, as well as your general health and any previous treatments you may have undergone.

Some skin cancers can be effectively removed in our dedicated Minor Procedure Clinic, while others may necessitate surgery at St Andrew's Toowoomba Hospital.

Dr. O'Donohue will assess your skin cancer, explain your treatment options, and recommend an approach tailored to your individual circumstances, ensuring that you receive the best possible care for your Toowoomba skin cancer.

Types of Skin Cancer Surgery

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) Removal

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, often found in patients in Toowoomba. It generally grows slowly but can damage surrounding tissue if left untreated. Surgical excision is a common method for melanoma treatment and involves removing the cancer along with an appropriate margin of surrounding skin. Many BCCs can be removed under local anaesthetic, while larger, recurrent, or more complex cancers may require additional surgical planning or reconstruction.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Removal

Squamous cell carcinoma is a common form of skin cancer that can grow more quickly and, in some cases, spread to nearby lymph nodes. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the cancer along with a margin of surrounding tissue. For higher-risk SCCs, further investigations or lymph node assessment may be necessary, and multidisciplinary care can be beneficial. Dr O'Donohue will discuss the appropriate melanoma treatment and follow-up strategies based on your pathology and individual risk factors during your visit in Toowoomba for skin cancer management.

Complex Skin Cancer Surgery

Some skin cancers, including melanoma, are more challenging to remove due to their size, depth, location, or previous treatments. In Toowoomba, Dr O'Donohue offers expert surgical assessment and management for complex skin cancers, focusing on selected recurrent cases and lesions that necessitate more extensive excision. Treatment is thoughtfully planned to ensure complete cancer removal while also preserving function and the aesthetic appearance of the affected area.

Skin Grafts and Flap Reconstruction

Following the removal of a larger skin cancer, such as melanoma, the wound may not be suitable for direct closure with stitches. Reconstructive surgery may be required to close the wound effectively and support healing. In Toowoomba, Dr O'Donohue performs various procedures, including: full-thickness and split-thickness skin grafts, local and regional flap reconstruction, and Biodegradable Temporising Matrix (BTM) reconstruction when appropriate. The most suitable approach for your melanoma treatment depends on the location and size of the wound, surrounding tissue, and your individual needs.

Aftercare and Recovery

Recovery following skin cancer surgery, depends on the size and location of the procedure and whether stitches, a skin graft, or flap reconstruction are needed.

Dr O'Donohue will explain what to expect during your recovery, including wound care, managing discomfort, activity restrictions, and when you can return to normal activities in Toowoomba.

Some patients may require additional dressings or wound reviews to support healing.

At Darling Downs Surgical Oncology, your care doesn't end after surgery. Dr O'Donohue personally reviews his admitted patients during their hospital stay and remains involved in postoperative follow-up.

Our team coordinates wound care appointments, pathology results, and further reviews, keeping you and your GP informed throughout your recovery process.