Surgical Excision of Melanoma

Surgery to remove (excise) a Reference melanoma Opens New Window 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. 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 Reference skin graft Opens New Window 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 Reference local anesthetic Opens New Window, while surgery for larger melanomas may require Reference general anesthesia Opens New Window.

See a picture of:

• Reference Melanoma Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window.
• Reference Area of excision and postoperative appearance Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window.

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