Basal Cell Carcinoma Surgery

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Surgical Treatment at Swift Access Health

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, developing from basal cells in the deepest layer of the epidermis. It is most frequently found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, scalp, and hands. BCC grows slowly and very rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but if left untreated it can cause significant damage to the surrounding tissue — particularly on the face. Early treatment is the most effective way to ensure complete clearance and an excellent cosmetic result.

At Swift Access Health, BCC is managed by consultant plastic surgeons who specialise in skin cancer surgery. Surgical excision is the gold standard treatment, combining complete removal with histological confirmation of clear margins. For cases involving the nose, eyelids, or other anatomically sensitive areas, advanced reconstructive techniques including skin flaps and grafts are available. Our goal is always to remove the cancer fully while preserving your skin’s appearance and function.

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Info

Time

15–60 minutes depending on lesion size, location, and reconstruction required

Results

Complete removal of BCC with histological confirmation; well-healed, discreet scar

Risks

Minor bleeding, infection, scarring; further surgery if margins not clear — discussed pre-operatively

Recovery

5–14 days for initial healing; scar maturation over 12 months

Anaesthetic

Local anaesthetic; sedation available for facial or complex procedures

Aftercare

Keep wound clean and dry; SPF 50+ protection; follow-up for suture removal and histology

Why Choose Swift Access Health

Benefits of BCC Surgery at Swift Access Health

Specialist surgical treatment of BCC by consultant plastic surgeons ensures complete clearance, histological peace of mind, and the best possible cosmetic outcome

  • Consultant plastic surgeons experienced in all types of BCC excision and facial reconstruction
  • All excised tissue sent to specialist pathology laboratory to confirm complete margin clearance
  • Advanced closure techniques — fine sutures, local flaps, or skin grafts — as required
  • Particular expertise in eyelid, nasal, and ear BCCs requiring complex reconstruction
  • One-off procedure in most cases; no extended hospital stay or general anaesthetic
  • Ongoing skin surveillance advice and referral for mole mapping for higher-risk patients
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Your Patient Journey

1. Your
Consultation

Your surgeon will review any previous biopsy or dermatology reports, examine the lesion, and explain the planned surgical approach. The incision design, likely scar, and closure or reconstruction technique will all be discussed. You will be asked to complete a medical history and consent form before surgery is scheduled.

Your Patient Journey

2. Your
Treatment

Under local anaesthetic, the BCC and a small margin of surrounding healthy skin are excised. The wound is closed with fine sutures, or reconstructed using a flap or graft if the size or location requires it. A sterile dressing is applied and the tissue is sent to pathology. The procedure is typically complete within 15–60 minutes.

Your Patient Journey

3. Aftercare

You will receive wound care instructions covering dressing management, bathing, and activity restrictions. Sutures are usually removed after 7–14 days. A follow-up appointment is arranged to discuss your histology results. If margins are clear, ongoing skin surveillance is arranged. If further treatment is needed, this is discussed promptly and with clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • BCC is very rarely life-threatening as it almost never spreads to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated it can grow into surrounding tissue and cause significant damage — especially on the face, where it can affect the nose, eyes, and ears. Early treatment leads to the best outcomes.

  • No. The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic before surgery begins. You will be comfortable throughout the procedure. Mild tenderness around the wound is expected once the anaesthetic wears off and is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

  • All surgery leaves a scar. Our plastic surgeons use advanced closure techniques, placing incisions along natural skin lines to minimise visibility. Scars typically soften and fade significantly over 12 months, and your surgeon will advise on scar management if needed.

  • Most patients heal within 1–3 weeks depending on the size and location of the surgery. Sutures are removed after 7–14 days. Full scar maturation takes several months, during which the scar gradually fades.

  • When the BCC is completely excised with clear margins, recurrence is uncommon. However, patients with a history of BCC are at increased risk of developing further skin cancers, making regular professional skin checks and diligent sun protection important for the long term.

  • For most BCCs, surgical excision alone is curative. If histology shows cancer cells at the margins, further surgery or, in some cases, radiotherapy may be recommended. Your surgeon will discuss all options clearly at your histology follow-up appointment.

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