Skin cancer refers to abnormal growth of skin cells, most commonly due to cumulative sun exposure. The main types are:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) – slow growing, rarely spreads

• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – can grow faster and may spread

• Melanoma – less common but potentially life-threatening

👉 Early detection is key — most skin cancers are highly treatable when identified early.

The primary cause is ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly:

• Long-term sun exposure

• Intermittent intense exposure (e.g. sunburns)

Risk factors include:

• Fair skin, light eyes

• Previous skin cancers

• Increasing age

• Immunosuppression

Not always — but most do require treatment.

• Many are treated with surgical excision (gold standard)

• Some superficial lesions may be managed with:

  • Topical treatments i.e. creams

  • Cryotherapy (“freezing”)

  • Curettage

The choice depends on:

• Type of cancer

• Size and location

• Patient factors

Many skin cancers can be safely treated in a well-equipped clinic setting.

However, specialist referral may be required for:

• Large or complex lesions

• High-risk locations (e.g. eyelid)

• Cases requiring advanced reconstruction

• Cases requiring General Anaesthesia

In-clinic procedures allow:

• Faster treatment

• Efficient care with reduced need for hospital-based treatment

• Continuity of care

Care is tailored to each individual lesion, taking into account anatomical location, reconstructive requirements, and overall patient factors.

This allows for appropriate planning of treatment, whether performed in a clinic setting or with referral to specialist services where required.