Understanding Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that arises from pigment-producing cells within the skin. It may present as a new or changing mole that looks different from other moles, often with an irregular shape, variation in colour or increasing size. Some lesions may itch, bleed or become tender.
Melanoma has the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Early diagnosis is important as it often reduces the extent of surgery required and improves long-term outcomes.
Your Surgical Journey
Your surgical journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Collins at The Surgery. This includes a full skin examination, assessment of regional lymph node basins and, when appropriate, a review of your biopsy results.
Treatment typically involves a wide local excision to remove the melanoma with an appropriate margin of surrounding skin. In selected cases, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be recommended to assess whether the melanoma has spread beyond the original site.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery depends on the extent of the surgery. A wide local excision is often carried out under local anaesthetic as a day procedure. Larger excisions or procedures involving lymph nodes may require a general anaesthetic and a short hospital stay.
For desk-based roles, return to work is usually possible within a couple of days following procedures under local anaesthetic and within one to two weeks following general anaesthesia. More physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Management and Next Steps
Melanoma management is guided by features identified on biopsy. These factors help determine whether further investigations or treatment are required.
A consultation with Dr Collins allows for a personalised assessment and discussion of your results and management options. Where appropriate, a multidisciplinary approach may be recommended to ensure you receive evidence-based and up-to-date treatment.
Melanoma Surgery in Dunedin with Dr Anne Collins
Frequently Asked Questions
A melanoma may present as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. It often looks different from other moles, with features such as an irregular shape, variation in colour or increasing size. Some melanomas may itch, bleed or become tender.
Melanoma is a potentially serious type of skin cancer. It can spread to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body. Early diagnosis is important as it often reduces the extent of surgery required and improves outcomes.
Risk factors for melanoma include fair skin, cumulative sun exposure, a history of sunburn, particularly in childhood, sunbed use and living in high ultraviolet environments such as New Zealand. Having a large number of moles or atypical moles, a personal or family history of melanoma and a weakened immune system may also increase risk.
Surgery typically involves a wide local excision to remove the melanoma with an appropriate margin of surrounding skin. In selected cases, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be recommended to assess whether the melanoma has spread beyond the original site.
A wide local excision involves removing the melanoma along with an appropriate margin of surrounding skin. This helps ensure the melanoma has been completely removed and reduces the risk of recurrence and spread.
A sentinel lymph node biopsy identifies the first lymph node that drains the area where the melanoma developed. This lymph node is removed and examined to determine whether the melanoma has spread beyond the original site.
Melanoma is generally treated surgically. In some cases, particularly where there is evidence of spread beyond the skin, additional treatments such as immunotherapy may be recommended. These are typically coordinated through a multidisciplinary team and will be discussed with you if appropriate.
Recovery depends on the extent of the surgery. Smaller procedures are often performed as day cases under local anaesthetic, while more extensive surgery may require a general anaesthetic and a short stay in hospital. Specific aftercare instructions will be provided to support your recovery.
For desk-based roles, return to work is usually possible within a couple of days following procedures under local anaesthetic and within one to two weeks following general anaesthesia. More physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Driving is usually possible after one to two weeks, once you can safely control the vehicle and perform emergency manoeuvres comfortably.
If melanoma is identified in a lymph node, a multidisciplinary approach will be adopted. Further investigations may be required, including a CT or PET CT scan. Depending on the findings, management may involve additional surgery, immunotherapy, close monitoring with ultrasound and regular clinical follow-up.
Yes. A diagnosis of melanoma increases the risk of developing further melanomas and other skin cancers. Regular follow-up is important to monitor your skin and detect any new or recurrent lesions early.
Regular skin checks, self-examination and sun protection are important to reduce your risk. If you notice anything new or unusual on your skin, schedule an appointment with Dr Collins at The Surgery for a comprehensive assessment. Early detection ensures that lesions are identified and treated promptly, improving long-term outcomes.
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