Maxillofacial oncology
Skin Tumours of the Face and Neck — Removal and Reconstruction
Assessment and surgical removal of skin lesions of the face and neck, with reconstruction of the area when needed.
Overview
Also known as: facial skin lesion, changing mole, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, facial skin cancer
Various lesions can appear on the skin of the face and neck — moles, lumps, patches or sores that do not heal. Most skin changes are harmless, but some are tumours, including malignant ones. Examples of skin tumour types include basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. What a particular lesion is can only be established through investigation.
On the face, function and appearance matter equally. So when a lesion is removed, the closure of the wound is planned as well — sometimes directly, and sometimes by moving nearby tissue or another type of reconstruction.
The removed tissue is sent for histological examination, which establishes the type of lesion and whether it has been removed completely. When the disease is malignant, the next steps are planned by a multidisciplinary team.
When to seek a consultation
- A mole that changes in size, shape or colour.
- A lesion that is growing, bleeds or forms a crust.
- A sore on the skin that does not heal.
- A new lump or lesion on the face or neck that does not go away.
What treatment may involve
- An examination of the lesion and, where needed, taking a tissue sample for analysis.
- Surgical removal of the lesion with a margin of healthy tissue around it.
- Closing the wound directly or with a reconstruction using nearby tissue, when needed.
- Histological examination of the removed tissue.
- For malignant disease, review by a multidisciplinary team and, where needed, further treatment.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
- Histology reports and oncology board opinions, if available.
Recovery and follow-up
Recovery depends on the size and position of the lesion and on how the wound is closed. In the first days there may be swelling, bruising and discomfort. Wound care is explained before you go home.
The histology result is discussed at a follow-up appointment. For some skin tumours, regular skin checks are recommended.
Risks and alternatives
Any skin excision leaves a scar, and its appearance depends on the size and position of the wound and on individual healing. Infection, bleeding, delayed healing, altered sensation and, after larger reconstructions, a change in the contour of the area are possible. A further procedure is sometimes needed if the analysis shows the lesion was not removed completely.
Alternatives — including observation of lesions that do not raise concern, or treatment by another specialist — are discussed after the examination.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
When should a mole on the face be checked?
Seek an assessment if a mole changes in size, shape or colour, bleeds or itches, or if a new lesion appears that does not go away.
Will there be a scar after removal?
Every surgical removal leaves a scar. The incision is planned to follow the natural lines of the face where possible, but the final appearance also depends on individual healing.
How do you find out if a skin lesion is malignant?
This is established by histological examination of the tissue. Appearance alone is not enough for a final diagnosis.
How much does removing a facial skin lesion cost?
The cost depends on the size of the lesion, the type of reconstruction and the investigations needed. It is discussed after a consultation.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.