An estimated
20% of people will likely develop skin cancer in their lifetime. If you've recently had a skin cancer diagnosis, this can be a very trying and concerning time. The good news is, advancements in treatment options and plastic surgery techniques can help you feel your best.
One way to calm your nerves and initiate peace of mind is to visit your plastic surgeon. From there, they will go over treatment options and help you reclaim your appearance so you feel great about yourself moving forward.
Signs of Skin Cancer
Cancer found in the epidermis is considered skin cancer. It occurs when the outermost skin layer experiences a high growth of abnormal cells. The initial sign that something may be wrong includes:
- Discoloration or change in an existing mole
- A new or unusual-looking mole or spot
- A skin sore that bleeds easily or doesn't heal properly
- Redness or itchiness of the skin
Even with an initial diagnosis, you may be concerned with your appearance. A skin biopsy can leave behind a scar called a keloid. Removing multiple or advanced cancers can also leave behind jagged areas or scars on the skin. Consulting with a plastic surgeon should be your first step in dealing with the effects of a skin biopsy and cancer removal surgery.
Treatment for Skin Cancer
If a skin biopsy or sample comes back as cancer, the next step is confirming the type and stage of the cancer. The main types of skin cancer include:
- Melanoma: This occurs when the melanin in the skin becomes cancerous.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: These cells grow irregularly just below the outer surface of the skin.
- Basal cell carcinoma: Basal cells are new cells that repair and replace old ones. A cancer that grows here is often found on the face or in areas highly exposed to the sun.
All three are very serious and can leave disfigurement behind if the cancer spreads to nearby tissues or organs. For squamous and basal cell cancers, treatment may involve a simple excision removal or curettage and electrodesiccation of the affected tissue.
Mohs micrographic surgery, which involves removing layers of skin to test for the spread of cancer cells, may be another option. Skin grafting and reconstructive surgery are also options for advanced disease. Testing on nearby lymph nodes and CT scans may help determine if cancer like melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma has spread beyond the surface of the skin to nearby organs.
Repair and Cosmetic Surgery
After you're on the road to recovery from removal or surgery, take a look at what is left behind. If you're worried about your appearance in any way, such as scarring or an inconsistency on the skin's surface, consult with your plastic surgeon.
Several options are available that can help restore your skin's natural beauty and give you back the confidence you had prior to diagnosis. In addition, other services may also benefit your appearance, including:
- Breast reconstruction or lift
- Thigh or arm lift
- Cosmetic injections
- Skin lift or tightening
These methods can help restore your skin back to a more natural appearance and help fill in and contour areas of distress or concern.
Ongoing Care Preventative Measures
Being a cancer survivor is something to be proud of. You will likely pick up some scars and challenges along the way. While this is part of the journey, various people can help to ease that burden. Your plastic surgeon should be a pivotal player in your care team.
As your cancer changes, or as your body changes post-cancer treatment, your plastic surgeon can help address any cosmetic needs that may arise. They can help with routine skin maintenance and skin cancer exams to help stay on top of any type of recurrence.
From prolonged sun exposure to lack of hydration, sometimes we take our skin for granted. The results can be devastating and difficult to deal with, but help and hope are out there. The hands of your plastic surgeon can breathe new life into your skin.
Contact the office of Ronald C. Barry, MD, to get help with your skin concerns. The end goal is to love the skin you're in.
