Skin Cancer Surgery

Dr Shaw has a passion for expertly treating all types of skin cancers.

Does Dr Shaw perform skin checks?

Dr Shaw has the tools and experience to perform skin checks; however he prefers to leave routine skin cancer checks and surveillance to the experts such as dedicated skin cancer GPs and dermatologists.

Do I need surgery for my skin cancer?

Non melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are the most common cancers in Australia. BCCs can become locally aggressive and infiltrative, and roughly 5% of SCCs can spread to lymph nodes when left untreated. The most effective treatment for skin cancer is complete surgical excision where possible by an experienced surgeon.

Dr Shaw understands the importance of each individuals appearance and balances complete surgical excision and long-term tumour control with achieving good aesthetic and functional results. Dr Shaw performs both local skin flap surgery and skin grafts for larger lesions where appropriate. He will consider specifics of your skin cancer (size, location, biology), your individual medical background, and your preference in recommending a particular treatment.

In some cases skin cancer of the head and neck can spread (metastasise) to the parotid gland and lymph nodes in the neck. Dr Shaw is experienced in parotid surgery and neck dissections for metastatic skin cancers.

In some cases, for very advanced cancers, radiotherapy or immunotherapy may be offered in addition, or in lieu of surgery.

After Surgery

You will be provided with personalised wound care instructions at the time of the procedure. Dr Shaw routinely sees his patients at 1-2 weeks post op to discuss the pathology results, remove sutures if applicable and review your wound(s).

Fees

Many procedures can be performed in rooms under local anaesthetic. An initial excision in rooms will incur a gap fee depending on the extent of the excision. If multiple excisions are requested on the same day, there will be additional costs. The medicare codes for skin lesions are complex and can only be confirmed once the pathology is confirmed by the pathology provider. We will claim these item numbers directly from Medicare so there is nothing for you to chase up.

If you require a larger excision or another procedure, your surgery will be done in an accredited hospital. You will be provided a fee estimate for surgery.