Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Receive expert care for squamous cell carcinoma with comprehensive treatment that prioritises both complete removal and optimal cosmetic outcomes.
What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)?
Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is a malignancy that grows from the top layer of the skin. It can grow locally, or spread to other areas of the body via the lymphatic system. Treatment of SCC involves removing the malignant area, along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete excision. Dr Marc Seifman’s approach combines oncological expertise with reconstructive techniques to achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome while ensuring complete cancer removal. Treatment may involve simple excision, skin grafting, local skin flaps, or more complex reconstruction.
book a consultSquamous cell carcinoma at a Glance
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Recovery time: A few weeks for wound healing. If skin grafting is required, this may be slightly longer.
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Surgical Procedure: Varies depending on the number of lesions to be treated and the complexity of the reconstruction.
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Hospital stay: May be performed at Tailored Plastic Surgery as an outpatient procedure, or admission to hospital for day surgery or an overnight stay.
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Anaesthesia: Varies depending on the number of lesions to be treated and the complexity of there construction. May be local anaesthesia alone, local anaesthesia with sedation, or general anaesthesia.
Conditional overview
Am I the right candidate for this?
You are a candidate if you have been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, usually via a biopsy of the area. Treatment is necessary regardless of size or location, as this type of skin cancer can spread if left untreated.
What is the process?
Begin with a referral from your dermatologist or GP following biopsy diagnosis. Consultation with Dr Marc Seifman will determine the most appropriate management approach, as there are multiple treatment methods available. Depending on your pathology, Dr Marc Seifman may coordinate your management with your dermatologist or oncologist to provide you the best treatment option. If surgery is required, Dr Marc Seifman will determine the surgical approach and any reconstruction needs. After scheduling, the procedure may be performed in-office or hospital depending on size and location. Follow-up includes pathology review and wound monitoring.
Post-operative care and recovery timeline
Recovery depends on the size and location of the excision. Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks. Wound care instructions will be provided, and sutures are typically removed within 1-2 weeks. Sun protection and regular skin surveillance are essential long-term.
Risks and additional info
Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, and potential need for additional surgery if margins need to be larger. Reconstruction may be required for larger defects. Regular follow-up with your dermatologist, skin specialist or GP for skin surveillance is important. Dr Marc Seifman will coordinate your care with other specialists as needed.
Is this surgery right for me?
Is this treament right for me?
Squamous cell carcinoma can grow or invade locally, as well as spread to distant sites. Given the associated risks, all SCCs should be examined. Dr Marc Seifman aims to guide you with your decision making process regarding any skin lesion you may have.
What does the procedure
journey look like?
To begin your journey at Tailored Plastic Surgery, you will typically have an initial consultation to discuss the diagnosis with you and plan for management. If surgery is required, we will discuss the steps you need to take in the lead-up to your surgery, and also on the day of your procedure.
After the procedure, you will likely have a dressing on the wound which should be kept clean and dry. Specific instructions will be given to you after the procedure. You may experience some discomfort a number of hours after the procedure once the effects of the local anaesthetic wear off, and these are usually easily addressed with pain medications that can be purchased over the counter at supermarkets or pharmacies. Depending on the complexity of the surgery and reconstruction, stronger pain relief may be provided. You should be able to go home on the same day, although this may be different depending on the complexity of there construction and your personal circumstances.
You should be able to return to work within one to two days, though this may be longer depending on your type of occupation and duties. We advise against strenuous physical activity and exercise within the first two weeks.
Procedure Risks
SCC surgery primarily aims to remove the cancer, and reconstruct the area with both functional and cosmetic outcomes in mind. In addition to general surgery risks, potential risks associated with this procedure may include:
Numbness or Sensation Changes:
Nerve injury during surgery can result in temporary or permanent loss of sensation in and around the area of the SCC surgery.
Seroma or Haematoma:
Collection of blood (haematoma) under the skin may occur after SCC surgery. Draining these collections may be necessary for proper healing.
Wound Healing Issues:
SCC surgery involves incisions, and there is a risk of delayed wound healing, wound separation, or infection. Proper wound care and follow-up visits are necessary for optimal healing.
Scarring:
SCC surgery incisions result in scars. The appearance of scars can vary depending on individual healing processes and proper scar management techniques.
Scarring:
Abdominoplasty incisions result in scars, typically located along the lower abdomen and around the umbilicus (belly button). The appearance of scars can vary depending on individual healing processes and proper scar management techniques.
Still unsure? Here are some FAQs…
Will further surgery be needed?
Depending on the type and extent of the SCC, further surgery may be required. Dr Marc Seifman will discuss the management options with you, and where necessary, engage in multidisciplinary consultation to ensure you are provided with the appropriate evidence-based management.
Will I have a scar?
Any time you have surgery that affects all the layers of the skin, a scar is formed. As a fully trained Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr Marc Seifman is experienced in techniques that aim to both minimise any scarring, as well as hide the scarring in less noticeable places.
Does it have to be removed?
If you have a skin lesion which has been diagnosed as SCC, it should be treated. Depending on the type of SCC, you may be able to trial some other therapy options instead of surgery, which may include topical therapy with special medical creams. Marc Seifman can discuss this with you and aims to help guide you with your decision making process.