Skin and Soft Tissue Procedures
We employ the least invasive methods necessary to remove both malignant and non-malignant moles and skin lesions, providing an effective solution for those looking to address skin health concerns or improve cosmetic appearance. We also have expertise in performing surgery for ingrown toenails, lipoma removal, and cyst extraction.
Melanoma and other Skin Cancers
Skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinomas (BCC), and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) are highly prevalent in New Zealand and require prompt surgical intervention. Some key characteristics of each are detailed below.
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Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, arising from melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin that gives skin its colour. Unlike other skin cancers, melanoma has a higher tendency to spread to other parts of the body, making early detection and treatment critical. Risk factors include excessive sun exposure, having many moles or atypical moles, a family history of melanoma, and having fair skin. Early-stage melanomas can often be treated successfully with surgical removal, but more advanced cases may require additional treatments such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, or chemotherapy.
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BCC is the most common and least aggressive form of skin cancer. It typically occurs in areas frequently exposed to the sun, like the face and neck. BCCs are slow-growing and rarely metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body, but they can cause significant local damage if not treated. Symptoms include a shiny, pearly nodule, a sore that doesn't heal, or a red, scaly patch. Early detection and treatment, usually through surgical removal or topical therapies, are key to preventing extensive damage and ensuring a good outcome.
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SCC is a common form of skin cancer that arises from the squamous cells in the outer layer of the epidermis. It is more aggressive than BCC but less likely to spread than melanoma. SCCs often appear as scaly, crusty lesions that may bleed or develop into open sores. They can occur anywhere on the body but are most common in areas exposed to the sun. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the lesion, with more advanced cases potentially requiring radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Early treatment is essential to prevent spread and achieve optimal outcomes.
While the vast majority of moles are benign and pose no health risk, there are rare occasions when some may display concerning signs indicative of skin cancer. Such signs include:
Asymmetry, where one half of the mole does not match the other.
Irregular borders that appear notched or blurred.
Changes in colour, especially multiple colours within a single mole.
A diameter larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm).
Any evolution in size, shape, colour, or elevation over time.
Any new symptom such as associated bleeding, itching, or crusting.
The presence of any of these key indicators necessitates immediate medical evaluation, as early detection is crucial for the effective treatment and management of skin cancer.
We are experienced in carefully excising malignant lesions with clear margins and a focus on achieving the best possible cosmetic outcomes. "Clear margins" mean that the area surrounding a removed tumour is free from cancer cells, indicating that the cancer has been fully excised. This is crucial because it greatly reduces the chance of cancer returning, offering patients a better prognosis and peace of mind.
Mole Removal and Other Unwanted Skin Lesions
We recognise that while some lesions may not pose a significant health risk, they can still affect how you feel and interact in the world, especially when prominently placed on the face. Unwanted moles, skin tags, and warts are extremely common and mostly benign. These lesions come in various forms, each with unique characteristics. Some common types include melanocytic naevi (benign moles), skin tags, seborrhoeic keratosis and actinic keratosis.
People choose to have skin lesions removed for various reasons. Aesthetically, those in visible areas like the face, neck, or hands, can be a source of self-consciousness or dissatisfaction. Lesions in areas prone to friction, such as underarms or the groin, can cause irritation or pain and complicate daily activities like shaving and brushing your hair.
It is important to seek professional medical care for any surgical intervention on the skin. The face in particular is an area with complex anatomy and specific tension lines that significantly influence healing and scarring. An experienced surgeon can remove lesions in a way that respects these anatomical nuances, ensuring that the incisions are aligned with natural skin lines to minimise scar visibility and promote better healing.
Skin Surgeries
Whether you're seeking treatment for health-related reasons or aesthetic improvement, our surgical approach is tailored to meet your individual needs and ensure the integrity of your skin is maintained.
Minor Procedures
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Skin biopsies are diagnostic procedures where a sample of skin is removed and examined to determine the presence of a variety of conditions, from infections to skin cancers. The tissue is analysed under a microscope, offering crucial insights for appropriate treatment plans.
Punch biopsies involve removing a small, circular piece of skin using a sharp, hollow tool, ideal for investigating deeper layers of the skin. Excision biopsies, on the other hand, involve cutting out an entire lump or an area of abnormal skin, often followed by stitching, and are typically used when a larger sample is needed for a more definitive diagnosis. Both are performed under local anaesthesia.
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Skin lesion excision surgery is a therapeutic procedure aimed at removing skin lesions that may be cancerous or pose other health risks, as well as for cosmetic reasons. The surgeon cuts around and under the lesion, taking care to remove it entirely, along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. This procedure typically requires local anesthesia, and the wound is closed with stitches, aiming for the best possible cosmetic result while ensuring the lesion is fully removed for analysis.
Complex Procedures
Complex procedures go beyond simple excisions, addressing larger or more deeply situated lesions, and may require specialised surgical techniques. Flap reconstructions or skin grafts may be employed in cases where large lesions are removed, or in areas with less skin laxity, to close the wound and promote healing while maintaining functionality and aesthetics.
Booking an Appointment
An initial consultation is necessary for all skin surgery to assess the lesion, explore your concerns, and discuss treatment options. You don't need a GP referral to book an appointment, but it's important to check with your insurance company beforehand, as some policies may require a GP referral or pre-authorisation. For convenience, minor surgeries could potentially be performed on the same day as the consultation, while more complex procedures will be scheduled for a designated time at a later date.
To streamline the consultation process and aid in decision-making, patients are encouraged to send clear, well-lit photos of their skin lesion with their booking enquiry. These can be sent to admin@mikeogradysurgery.co.nz. This pre-consultation step can provide valuable insights to guide your surgical care.
The cost for skin surgery starts at $550 and includes a follow-up appointment and removal of sutures. Additional charges may be incurred for the removal of multiple lesions or in cases requiring larger, more complex procedures. If you need to return for surgery at a later date, a consultation fee of $250 is payable on the day of your consultation.