Skin Cancer Surgery · Melanoma
Skin Cancer · Conditions
Melanoma is the most serious common skin cancer, and Australia leads the world in it. Treatment is surgical first: complete excision with the correct margin, then reconstruction that respects both oncology and appearance.
What it is
Melanoma arises from the pigment cells of the skin. Once diagnosed — usually by an excision biopsy arranged by your GP or dermatologist — definitive treatment is wide local excision: removing the scar and surrounding skin with a margin determined by the tumour's thickness (Breslow depth), in line with Australian melanoma guidelines.
On the face, achieving a correct oncological margin while preserving appearance and function is genuinely demanding. This is where a reconstructive surgeon earns their keep.
Treatment
Dr Kim performs wide local excision and reconstruction, using direct closure, flaps or grafts depending on the site and the size of the defect. Where the melanoma's thickness makes lymph node assessment (such as sentinel node biopsy) relevant, he coordinates care with Sydney's specialist melanoma units so staging and any additional therapy proceed without delay.
Follow-up is structured: wound and scar review, skin surveillance guidance, and clear communication back to your GP and dermatologist.
Common questions
The margin depends on the tumour's Breslow thickness — commonly between 5 mm and 2 cm of surrounding skin, per Australian guidelines. Dr Kim explains the exact plan for your tumour before surgery.
Many wide excisions close directly. Larger defects, or those on the face, may need a local flap or graft — decided by the site, the required margin and your anatomy.
For melanomas above certain thickness thresholds, sentinel lymph node biopsy may be discussed. Dr Kim coordinates this with Sydney's melanoma units so nothing is missed.
Structured follow-up includes scar review and ongoing skin surveillance with your dermatologist or GP; frequency depends on the stage of your melanoma.
Related
Next step
Consultations in Sydney CBD and North Sydney. Referrals from GPs, dermatologists and Mohs surgery specialists welcome. Phone 1300 911 151.
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