Skin Cancer: Diagnosis, Removal and Reconstruction

As a core function of our practice, skin cancer treatment aims to identify and remove cancerous tissue with precision while preserving as much healthy skin as possible, restoring both function and appearance.

Procedure Overview

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in New Zealand, often caused by cumulative sun exposure. Surgical identification and removal remains the most reliable treatment option, offering the highest chance of cure when cancer is detected early.

The goal is not only to remove the cancer, but also to repair the resulting defect while maintaining natural appearance and protecting function. Depending on the type, size, and location of the cancer, different surgical techniques may be used, including simple excision, flap repair, grafting, or staged reconstruction. Each approach is tailored to the individual, balancing oncological safety with refined aesthetic and functional outcomes.

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What to expect

  • Your consultation will include a careful examination of the affected area and, in some cases, a biopsy or review of prior test results. Dr. de Chalain will explain the type of skin cancer, your treatment options, and the approach best suited to your case. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and feel fully informed before moving forward.

  • Unlike the public system, private care allows greater flexibility to accommodate your schedule. A surgery date will be agreed collaboratively, taking into account clinical urgency as well as your personal and lifestyle commitments.

    Once a date is confirmed, you will receive clear instructions on how to prepare, which may include adjusting medications or avoiding certain supplements. Most skin cancer procedures are performed under local anaesthetic, although larger or more complex cases may require oral or intravenous sedation, or general anaesthetic. All options will be discussed in advance, and your preferences respected wherever possible.

  • Your surgeon removes the cancerous tissue with precision, taking a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete clearance. If reconstruction is needed, techniques such as local flaps or skin grafts may be used immediately to restore form and function. The procedure is carefully designed to leave the least visible scar possible.

  • You will usually go home the same day, with a dressing applied to protect the wound. If stitches are placed, these may be either dissolvable or removed at a later date. Some swelling, bruising, or tightness is normal in the first few days.

  • Healing times vary depending on the size and location of the procedure. Most people can resume daily activities quickly, though you may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting until further into the healing process. Scar care, such as massage, silicone gels or sun protection, may be recommended to optimise long-term results.

  • A follow-up appointment will be arranged to check healing, remove sutures if necessary, and review the pathology results. Ongoing skin checks are strongly recommended, as having one skin cancer increases your risk of developing another. Dr. de Chalain and our expert team will guide you on how often to return for monitoring and how best to care for your skin going forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • At the time of your examination, the surgeon may identify pre-malignant lesions such as solar keratoses. Sometimes, these can be treated with cryotherapy (freezing) or topical agents such as Efudix and Calcipotriol. Most confirmed skin cancers however, will require surgical removal.

    Such surgical removal is recommended when a lesion has been confirmed or is strongly suspected to be cancerous. Early removal can prevent the cancer from spreading or damaging local structures and early surgery often leads to the best outcomes.

  • Most common skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and some melanomas, can be treated surgically. The specific technique depends on the type, size, and location of the lesion.

  • The area is gently numbed with local anaesthetic. Your surgeon carefully excises the cancerous tissue along with a small margin of healthy skin to ensure complete removal. The wound is then closed with fine sutures, planned to create the most discreet scar possible.

  • The procedure itself is typically pain-free due to local anaesthetic. Some tenderness or mild discomfort may occur afterwards, but this is usually well managed with simple pain relief.

  • All surgery leaves a mark, but surgical technique is planned to keep scarring minimal and well placed. Over time, scars usually soften and fade, and Dr. de Chalain and our expert team can recommend specific scar care strategies to support optimal healing.

  • The removed tissue is sent to a specialist laboratory for histological testing. This confirms whether the cancer has been completely excised and ensures nothing has been missed.

  • Recovery is generally straightforward. You may return to daily activities shortly after the procedure, with a follow-up appointment to check healing and, if required, remove sutures. More complex cases may require a slightly longer recovery period.

  • If the procedure is medically necessary, it may be eligible for coverage through public health or private insurance. Cosmetic removal of benign lesions, however, is typically self-funded.

  • Regular skin checks, sun protection, and early attention to any changes in your skin are key. Dr. de Chalain may recommend follow-up care or regular monitoring depending on your personal risk factors.

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