Wide Local Excision Surgery

Precise Surgical Intervention For Skin Cancer Treatment

Wide Local Excision in Melbourne

Wide local excision, or WLE surgery, is a surgical procedure that removes the skin surrounding the skin cancer to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence at that site.  

At Manningham Skin Cancer Clinic, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and skin cancer services. Therefore, our skin specialists perform precise surgical interventions to treat skin cancer, including: 

  • Melanoma Wide Local Excision

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma Excision

  • Excision Of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer – you’re not alone; we’re here to help. 

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When Is Recommended To Perform An Excision Surgery?

Even though an initial punch biopsy often removes the entire tumour, wide local excision may be recommended as a second intervention to reduce the risk of the skin cancer recurring. 

Once assessed by your doctor, they will recommend the best approach; however, this skin excision is used mainly on:

Wide local excision can result in a cure rate of approximately 95% and allows for microscopic examination of surrounding tissue.  

 

Wide Excision For Melanoma

The recommendations provided by The Medical Journal of Australia for a melanoma excision of primary cutaneous Melanoma are melanoma excision.

Wide Local Excision Procedure: What to Expect?

Wide local excision for skin cancer is a relatively small procedure typically performed using local anaesthesia. The skin cancer and a small margin of healthy tissue around it are cut out, usually in a football-shaped ellipse. Once the tissue has been removed, the wound’s edges are sutured together. The tissue is then sent for processing and margin evaluation by a pathologist.

The procedure takes about an hour, and the patient can go home the same day with post-surgery instructions and care.

 

Recovery from Skin Excision

In the days following the wide local excision, you may experience tightness and tenderness in the treated area. Your specialist will prescribe pain medication if needed to ensure your comfort during recovery.

The time it takes to recover will vary depending on the thickness of the melanoma and the extent of the surgery required. Most people recover in 1–2 weeks. The doctor will tell you how long to wait before returning to your usual exercise and activities.

 

Wound Care & Wound Repair

After the wide excision, it is important to care for the wound properly, wash the area daily with warm, soapy water and pat it dry; avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol.

The wound is typically closed using stitches, resulting in a scar. Over time, the scar tends to become less prominent. In cases where a significant portion of skin is removed, the specialist may suggest wound repair through one of two methods: skin grafting or skin flap surgery. 

Wide Local Excision
Topical treatment for skin cancer

Skin Cancer – Prevention & Detection

Early intervention is key to successful treatment. Skin cancer can often be detected early through self-examinations and routine check-ups. Some early signs include:

  • Unusual Moles or Spots: Any new or changing moles should be examined promptly.
  • Persistent Sores: Non-healing sores or lesions should be evaluated by a doctor.
  • Skin Changes: Noticeable changes in skin lesions’ colour, shape, or size require attention.

Book An Appointment For Wide Local Excision Surgery

At Manningham Skin Cancer Clinic, we’re committed to providing our patients with the highest standard of care. If you require a wide local excision for skin cancer, have concerns about skin abnormalities, or require another skin cancer service, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

Book your consultation with our specialists.

Frequently Ask Questions

Yes, like any surgical procedure, wide local excision surgery has potential risks and complications. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, and pain at the surgical site. In some cases, there may be nerve damage resulting in numbness or tingling around the area. Additionally, there is a small risk of the cancer recurring even after the surgery.

To prepare for wide local excision surgery, you should follow your doctor’s specific instructions. Generally, you may be advised to:

  • Stop taking certain medications that can increase bleeding risk, such as blood thinners.
  • Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure if it will be done under general anaesthesia.
  • Arrange for transportation to and from the clinic.
  • Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to change.
  • Ensure the surgical area is clean and free from lotions or creams.

It is advisable to have someone accompany you for the surgery, especially if you will be receiving sedation or general anaesthesia. This person can help you get home safely and assist with any immediate post-operative care you might need.

Wide local excision is commonly performed on melanomas, basal cell carcinomas (BCC), and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC). However, the suitability of this procedure depends on various factors, including the type, size, and location of the skin cancer. 

Your doctor will evaluate these factors to determine if wide local excision is appropriate for your specific case.

Your doctor will recommend wide local excision based on a thorough evaluation of your skin cancer, including its type, size, depth, and location. Factors such as your health, medical history, and personal preferences will also be considered. 

Discussing the potential benefits and risks with your doctor will help you make an informed decision.

Yes, you will likely have a scar after wide local excision surgery. The size and appearance of the scar depend on the size of the excision and the location on your body. 

While scars tend to fade over time, they may not completely disappear. Your doctor can recommend a scar revision to help minimise its appearance.

Yes, there are alternatives to wide local excision surgery for treating skin cancer. These can include non-surgical interventions such as cryotherapy, topical medications, and, in some cases, systemic treatments such as immunotherapy or chemotherapy. 

The best alternative depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s health and preferences.

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