Skin cancer generally develops on areas of the skin that have been exposed to high intensity sunlight. However, it may also occur in areas that aren't commonly exposed to sunlight. The three main forms of skin cancer include:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma generally forms on parts of the skin that are exposed to sunlight, such as the face or neck. It is visibly noticeable as a wax-like bump, bleeding sore or scab that heals and eventually comes back.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma also develops on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, hands and ears. It can appear as firm, red nodules or a flat lesion that has a flaky or scaly surface.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a less common type of skin cancer. However, it is known to be more severe since it can rapidly spread to other parts or organs of the body, if not treated early. It is visibly seen as a brown spot with darker freckles, a mole that changes in colour or size, or a lesion that bleeds or burns.

Skin Cancer Surgery

There are many techniques used to treat skin cancer, Dr Najjaar will first do a biopsy to diagnose the type of cancer, prior to deciding on the optimal management plan. A multidisciplinary team (MDT) is involved in certain cases, consisting of a dermatologist, an oncologist and a general surgeon.

The MDT may recommend further testing to assess the severity and extent of the cancer.