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What is excision of melanoma skin cancer?

Excision of Melanoma Skin Cancer
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Melanoma excision surgery: Overview

Surgery to remove (excise) a melanoma removes the entire melanoma along with a border (margin) of normal-appearing skin. The width of the border of normal skin removed depends on the depth of the melanoma. More tissue, usually skin and fat, is also removed from under the melanoma.

  • Small excisions may be closed with stitches and heal without problems.
  • Large excisions or those located on the hands, face, or feet may require a skin graft to close the wound after surgery.

The type of anesthetic used for your surgery depends on the size and location of the melanoma. Surgery on small, easily reached melanomas may require only a local anesthetic. Surgery for larger melanomas may require general anesthesia.

Why is melanoma excision surgery done?

Surgery is the most common treatment for melanoma. Sometimes lymph nodes may be removed at the same time to check them for cancer. Surgery also may be done to remove lymph nodes that have cancer or to remove tumors that may have spread to other parts of the body.

Melanoma Excision: Melanoma

Picture of melanoma

Melanoma that is found early, or before it has spread, usually can be completely removed with surgery (excision).

After your teen's melanoma excision surgery: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think your teen may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • Your teen passes out (loses consciousness).
  • Your teen is short of breath.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your teen has pain that does not get better after taking pain medicine.
  • Your teen has loose stitches, or the wound comes open.
  • Bright red blood has soaked through the bandage over your teen's incision.
  • Your teen can't pass stools or gas.
  • Your teen is sick to the stomach or can't drink fluids.
  • Your teen has signs of a blood clot in a leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
    • Pain in the calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
    • Swelling in the leg or groin.
    • A color change on the leg or groin. The skin may be reddish or purplish, depending on your usual skin color.
  • Your teen has symptoms of infection, such as:
    • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
    • Red streaks leading from the incision.
    • Pus draining from the incision.
    • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your teen's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.