Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment
Timely, precise treatment for a cancer that can spread if left untreated.
Procedure overview
Squamous cell carcinoma is a common form of skin cancer that, unlike basal cell carcinoma, carries a higher risk of spreading if not treated promptly. Surgical excision removes the tumour along with an appropriate margin of healthy tissue, guided by biopsy findings and lesion characteristics.
In some cases, further treatment or monitoring is coordinated with a dermatologist or oncology team.
The patient pathway
- 01
1st consultation
Biopsy results, lesion characteristics and any risk factors are reviewed to plan appropriate margins.
- 02
Surgical planning
Technique, expected margins, and whether lymph node evaluation is needed are discussed.
- 03
The procedure
Performed under local or general anaesthesia depending on size and location, typically 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- 04
Follow-up
Pathology confirms clear margins. Regular follow-up is scheduled given the higher monitoring needs of this cancer type.
Questions patients ask
Why does this need larger margins than other skin cancers?
Squamous cell carcinoma has a higher tendency to spread, so margins and follow-up are typically more thorough than for basal cell carcinoma.
Will I need further treatment after surgery?
In most cases surgery is sufficient, though additional treatment or imaging may be recommended depending on pathology results.
How often will I need skin checks afterwards?
Follow-up frequency is tailored to individual risk factors, typically more frequent in the first two years.
Is this urgent?
Timely treatment is recommended once diagnosed, though the exact timeline is discussed based on your specific case.