Surgery is a common treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC), a type of skin cancer that forms on the skin’s top layer. The type of surgery used depends on the risk of the BCC and where it’s located on the body.

Diagnosis

In order to assess any growths or changes in your skin, your doctor or a specialist in skin conditions (dermatologist) will conduct a medical history and exam.

History and general exam

Your doctor will conduct a general physical exam and ask you questions about your medical history, changes in your skin, or any other signs or symptoms you’ve experienced.
Questions may include:

Skin exam

Your doctor will examine not only the suspicious area on your skin but also the rest of your body for other lesions.

Skin sample for testing

Your doctor may do a skin biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of a lesion for testing in a laboratory. This will reveal whether you have skin cancer and, if so, what type of skin cancer. The type of skin biopsy you undergo will depend on the type and size of the lesion.

Treatment

The aim of basal cell carcinoma treatment is to completely eliminate the cancer. The ideal treatment for you depends on factors including the cancer’s type, size, location, your personal preferences, and your ability to attend follow-up appointments.

Surgery

Basal cell carcinoma is typically treated with surgery to remove the cancer and surrounding healthy tissue. Treatment options include surgical excision, where the cancerous lesion and a margin of healthy skin are removed and examined for cancer cells. This method is often recommended for low-risk basal cell carcinomas. Another option is Mohs surgery, a layer-by-layer removal of cancer cells, examined under a microscope to ensure complete removal. This method is often recommended for higher-risk basal cell carcinomas, such as larger or deeper lesions, or those located on the face.

Other treatments

Sometimes other treatments might be recommended in certain situations, such as if you’re unable to undergo surgery or if you don’t want to have surgery.
Other treatments include:

Treatment for cancer that spreads

In the rare event that basal cell carcinoma spreads to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body, additional treatment options may be considered, including targeted therapies, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Preparing for your appointment

The following information can help you prepare for an appointment.

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