Am I a candidate for wide local excision?
To recommend the appropriate form of treatment, the specialist will do a general examination to learn about your medical history and determine the size and depth of cancer.
How do I prepare for a wide local excision?
Your doctor will ask you to avoid alcohol for 3 days before surgery and to avoid using make-up or perfume on the day of the procedure.
Why does the surrounding skin need to be removed?
Skin cancer has a chance of developing microscopic roots that surround the original growth, there’s also a chance of some cancerous cells separating and creating a “seed” that could lead to further complications; by removing the surrounding skin, surgeons decrease the possibility of cancer coming back into the area.
How is the incision closed?
This depends on the size and depth of cancer, for most wounds, stitches are used. Smaller incisions can heal by themselves, while bigger ones might need the use of skin grafts to properly heal.