Skin Cancer Service - Plymouth Hospitals

Plymouth Hospital NHS Trust
Skin Cancer Service
Wide Local Excision
The aim of this surgery is to remove an area of healthy tissue
from around the site of the melanoma and therefore minimise
the risk of the cancer returning to that area. You will already
have a scar from where you had your mole/lesion removed, and
as we need to take away more skin you will end up with a
slightly longer scar. The wound itself will be closed with stitches
and tape over the top to reinforce the wound. The stitches (if
they are not dissolvable) will need to be removed 7–14 days
post surgery.
In some cases there will not be enough skin to close the wound
directly, in which case you may need to have a skin graft, but
your doctor will discuss this with you beforehand.
Following your procedure your doctor will advise you on care of
the wound.
Possible post operative problems
Pain – You may experience some mild discomfort following
surgery. This can easily be controlled with mild pain killers.
You will be given a supply before you leave hospital.
Bruising and haematoma – You may experience some
bruising. This will gradually disappear, but occasionally blood
collects within the tissues surrounding the wound causing
swelling, discomfort and hardness. This is called a haematoma.
Although the blood will eventually be reabsorbed by the body,
this can take a few weeks. If the haematoma causes you a lot of
discomfort, you should contact:
• Your GP
• Dermatology Department on 763053
• Plastic Surgery Dressing Clinic on 01752 431024
Wide Local Excision
Skin Cancer Service