Surgical dermatology > Malignant skin tumors
Malignant skin tumors
White skin cancer
The difference between the precursor of white skin cancer and white skin cancer is the crossing of the basement membrane. The basement membrane is the boundary between the subcutaneous tissue (dermis) and the subcutaneous fat tissue and acts as a natural protective wall in the skin. If the tumor has grown into deeper structures via this boundary layer, surgical removal of the tumor is indicated in almost all cases. As a rule, this can be done under local anesthesia - although in certain indications it may be advisable to establish a short sleep anesthesia. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, the wound can be closed directly with a suture, i.e. stitched, without any problems after the operation. In places with only a small amount of tissue (e.g. nose, ears), or in the case of very large tumors, the resulting defect must be closed by means of flap plastic or skin grafting. The focus of every surgical procedure is a cosmetically and functionally excellent surgical result.
All procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. If necessary, close wound checks are performed by an experienced team at sweet skin. Dr. Bänninger and her team will accompany you throughout the entire process, from diagnosis and surgical removal of the tumor to postoperative wound management. We discuss and establish an individual aftercare plan with you so that you can feel confident in your skin.
Black skin cancer, melanoma
The primary treatment for black skin cancer in almost all cases is the rapid surgical removal of the tumor. Usually this can be done under local anesthesia. Only when the complete lesion has been removed can the diagnosis of melanoma be made with certainty histologically (under the microscope) and the appropriate stage determined. In the case of early-stage melanomas, a second procedure is performed with a so-called safety margin in healthy tissue. For advanced stages, additional examinations and treatments are often required. Our dermatologists at sweet skin have many years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment as well as follow-up of malignant melanoma. Where necessary, we work closely with the Melanoma Center of the University Hospital Zurich to ensure the best possible therapy for our patients.
All patients suffering from melanoma must undergo regular dermatological full-body examinations during the first 5 years after diagnosis. We will work with you to develop an individualized aftercare plan in accordance with the internationally valid melanoma guidelines and accompany you on the challenging journey following a melanoma diagnosis.
