Skin Cancer Removal

Our doctors deliver effective and convenient surgical and non-surgical solutions in our rooms in Brisbane City. Most surgery can be carried out comfortably at our on-site surgical suites in a single treatment with external sutures removed (if required) 5-14 days later.

For larger surgeries and skin graft procedures, our dermatologists treat patients at Greenslopes Private Hospital under anaesthesia.

For eligible patients, Medicare rebates almost always apply, and eligible health fund rebates are available to those with coverage treated in hospital.

At The Skin Lab, we remove melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer including squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. While these cancers originate from different types of skin cells, both can be successfully removed with our advanced laser technology. With our professional and friendly approach, you can trust that we will work with you to determine the best way to treat skin cancer for your unique situation. 

Basal cell cancers are classified as superficial skin cancers, as they rarely spread, so it’s often that the entire growth will be removed in the initial biopsy.

Only some skin cancers are eligible for non-surgical treatment. Our doctors will first provide a thorough examination, confirm the diagnosis and discuss the best treatment options for removing skin cancer based on your concern.

Some low-risk, small skin cancers are suitable for non-surgical common treatment, including certain prescription creams, photodynamic therapy and cryotherapy.

All melanoma and most squamous cell carcinomas and higher risk basal cell carcinoma (morpheic, sclerosing, recurrent) are complex skin cancers unsuitable for non-surgical treatments and almost always require excision. Basal and squamous cell removal is best done as soon as possible. If these skin cancer types are discovered in a skin check with The Skin Lab, you can book a removal appointment with us immediately.

While we cannot guarantee no scar will be left behind, our skin cancer removal methods are designed to minimise scarring. 

For surgical procedures, if a large skin cancer is removed, surgeons will generally use a skin flap or skin graft to repair the area. Skin flaps are generally preferred from a cosmetic point of view, as the skin tone and texture usually match better through this method. 

When removing skin cancer from the face, we use methods that will prevent as much scarring as possible. We can also advise on post-procedure treatments for any scarring.

It is best if you shower and wear clean clothing prior to attending your appointment. Taking some analgesics half an hour before your appointment, such as Paracetamol, can also help to keep you comfortable. Do not take aspirin or Nurofen as it tends to cause increased bleeding.

If you regularly take blood thinners this may need to be ceased prior to your operation, and your doctor will discuss this with you.

If you have any allergies to tape, dressings, creams or medications, it is also important to tell your doctor.

Most minor surgical procedures involve an injection of a local anaesthetic to numb the area. The skin cancer cells are removed, and the site is repaired with sutures. The wound will be dressed and you will be supplied with post-operative instructions for wound care. 

A follow-up visit is organised 5 to 14 days after removing skin cancer to take out the sutures. The timing of removal is dependent upon the type and location of the surgery. At this visit you will be advised of your pathology results regarding any potentially remaining cancer cells and if any further treatment is required. Further skin check visits are usually scheduled for follow-up.

The out-of-pocket cost may vary depending on the size, complexity, number of lesions, location and the method of treatment. For a treatment quote and out-of-pocket estimate, we require a consultation and assessment with our skin cancer doctors and dermatologists.

We understand that when it comes to skin cancer, time is of the essence. That’s why we offer top-quality skin cancer removal services that are effective, minimally invasive, and comfortable for our patients. We use laser technology that is specifically designed to target and remove cancerous cells while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue untouched. 

Our team of experienced professionals is highly skilled and dedicated to providing the best possible care to each and every one of our patients. So whether you’ve just received a skin cancer diagnosis or are simply looking to have a suspicious spot removed, choose The Skin Lab for expert care in a friendly, welcoming environment.