Melanoma Removal Hillsborough & Somerville, NJ
Treat Skin Cancer
Melanoma removal is a surgery to remove cancer in skin tissue. This cancer is called melanoma.
Reasons for Procedure
A melanoma removal is done to treat melanoma. For some it may be a cure for melanoma.
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Depending on the stage of the disease, your doctor may do the following:
- Physical exam of skin
- Biopsy of any suspicious lesion
- Blood tests
- Image tests such as Chest x-ray, CT scan, MRI, or PET scan.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is often used to numb the area where the cancer is removed. General anesthesia may need to be used if the area is large. In this case, you will be asleep.
Description of the Procedure
Surgical removal of the cancerous cells is the primary treatment for melanoma. Types of surgery include:
- Simple excision – The tumor is cut out, along with a small amount of normal skin at the edges. The wound is stitched back together. This type of surgery may leave a scar.
- Wide excision – The tumor is cut out along with a larger area of normal skin. This will help make sure there are no cancer cells left behind.
- Lymph node dissection – Nearby lymph nodes may be removed if there is concern that the cancer spread. The removed lymph nodes will be sent to a lab for study.
In more advanced cases of melanoma, other treatments may be necessary., which include chemotherapy and radiation therapy. You will consult with your oncologist if needed.
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