Melanoma Excision Surgery

Surgery Overview

Surgery to remove (excise) a melanoma removes the entire melanoma along with a border (margin) of normal-appearing skin. The width of the border of normal skin removed depends on the depth of the melanoma, Opens dialog. More tissue, usually skin and fat, is also removed from under the melanoma.

  • Small excisions may be closed with stitches and heal without problems.
  • Large excisions or those located on the hands, face, or feet may require a skin graft, Opens dialog to close the wound after surgery.

The type of anesthetic used for your surgery depends on the size and location of the melanoma. Surgery on small, easily reached melanomas may require only a local anesthetic, Opens dialog. Surgery for larger melanomas may require general anesthesia, Opens dialog.

Information about Melanoma Excision Surgery

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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