Plastic Surgery
Skin Cancer Surgery & Treatment
Skin cancer is the abnormal, uncontrolled growth of skin cells, most commonly caused by cumulative ultraviolet radiation exposure, though genetic factors, immunosuppression, and certain chemical exposures also play a role. The three major types are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) — the most common and least aggressive, arising from the basal layer of the epidermis; squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) — arising from the squamous cells with a moderate potential for metastasis; and melanoma — the most dangerous form, originating from the pigment-producing melanocytes and capable of rapid spread to distant organs if not detected early.
Risk factors for skin cancer include chronic sun exposure, history of severe sunburns, fair skin with poor tanning ability, a large number of moles, the presence of dysplastic (atypical) moles, family history of skin cancer, immunosuppressive conditions or medications, and exposure to certain chemicals such as arsenic. Any new, changing, or suspicious skin lesion — particularly one that bleeds, does not heal, changes color or shape, or has irregular borders — warrants prompt dermatological evaluation and biopsy.
Dr. Amit Agrawal at Amit Aesthetics in Aligarh offers comprehensive skin cancer management, combining oncologically sound tumor excision with the plastic surgeon's expertise in wound closure and reconstruction. Treatment options include surgical excision with adequate margins, shave excision for superficial lesions, electrodesiccation and curettage, cryotherapy, radiotherapy for select cases, and advanced modalities including photodynamic therapy, topical chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. For larger or critically located tumors, Dr. Agrawal performs excision with immediate reconstruction using local flaps or skin grafts to achieve both complete tumor clearance and the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Interested in Skin Cancer Surgery?
Schedule a consultation to discuss your options with Dr. Amit Agrawal.
Procedures & Techniques
- Wide local excision of BCC, SCC, and melanoma
- Shave excision for superficial skin lesions
- Electrodesiccation and curettage for early BCC and SCC
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma staging
- Local flap reconstruction after skin cancer excision
- Skin grafting for large surgical defects
- Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen) for pre-cancerous lesions
- Coordination for adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy
- Excision of dysplastic and atypical moles
- Scar revision after prior skin cancer surgery
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery after skin cancer excision depends on the size, depth, and location of the tumor and the method of closure. Simple excisions and shave biopsies heal within one to three weeks with daily wound care and suture removal at seven to fourteen days. Flap reconstructions and skin grafts require more careful wound management for two to four weeks, with avoidance of strenuous activity during that period. Sun protection of the surgical site is essential for at least six to twelve months to minimize scarring. Patients are scheduled for regular skin surveillance — typically every three to six months for the first two years — to monitor for recurrence and detect any new skin cancers early.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma?
How can I tell if a mole might be skin cancer?
Will there be a visible scar after skin cancer removal?
How often should I have my skin checked after skin cancer treatment?
Take the First Step
Schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Amit Agrawal to discuss your goals and explore your options.