Skin Cancer Surgery: Types and What to Expect

Finding a lump or spot that needs removal is scary. Surgery for skin cancer is common and often curative. This guide explains the main surgery types, what will happen before and after, the risks, and simple recovery tips so you know what to expect.

Common surgery types

Excisional surgery is the simplest: the surgeon cuts out the tumor plus a small margin of healthy skin. It’s used for many basal cell and squamous cell cancers and some melanomas. Mohs micrographic surgery removes the cancer layer by layer and checks each layer under a microscope during the procedure. That makes Mohs very precise and tissue-sparing, so it’s often used on the face, ears, and other areas where preserving skin matters. Curettage and electrodesiccation scrapes the tumor and uses electric current to control bleeding—this works for some small, superficial cancers. For larger or deeper tumors, wide local excision or skin grafts and flaps may be needed to close the wound. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is sometimes done with melanoma to check if the cancer spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Before, during, and after surgery — what to expect

Before surgery you’ll have a short exam and, sometimes, imaging or blood tests. The doctor will explain anesthesia options—local numbs the area; general is rare for small skin surgeries. During Mohs, you’ll probably be awake and the surgeon will remove thin layers until no cancer cells show under the microscope. Most excisions are quick—30 to 60 minutes—though Mohs can take longer depending on layers.

After surgery you’ll get wound care instructions. Expect some pain, swelling, and bruising for a few days; simple painkillers usually help. Keep the area clean, follow dressing changes, and avoid heavy lifting or exercise that stretches the wound for 1–2 weeks. If you had a graft or flap, the site needs extra monitoring for color and blood flow—report any odd changes to your provider right away.

Scarring is likely but varies by procedure, location, and your skin. Surgeons often use layered closures and fine sutures to reduce visible scars. If appearance is a big concern, ask about reconstruction options and timing for scar revision later.

Risks are low but real: bleeding, infection, wound breakdown, numbness, and rarely recurrence. For melanoma, follow-up includes skin checks and sometimes imaging or blood tests. For non-melanoma skin cancers, regular dermatology checks help catch any new growth early.

How do you pick a surgeon? For complex areas or recurrent tumors, choose a Mohs-trained surgeon or a dermatologist with surgical experience. For large reconstructions, a plastic surgeon or a team approach can give the best cosmetic result. Ask about their experience with your specific cancer type and location.

Surgery is often the fastest path to removing skin cancer. Ask questions, understand the plan, and follow aftercare. If you notice new or changing spots later, get them checked—early treatment makes a big difference.