Most skin cancers identified during routine full skin examinations are excised under local anaesthesia. At Radien, we have a fully equipped procedure theatre set up for such minor surgery. All procedures are performed under sterile conditions, with all our reusable equipment fully sterilised or sanitised according to national infection control guidelines.
Patients with skin cancers are usually rebooked for a specific surgical procedure list. Rebooking is important to provide adequate time to perform procedures as well as allowing patients to organise their work or social life to accommodate restrictions in post-operative physical activity. Also, some patients require pre-operative antibiotics to protect implanted artificial joints, heart valves or pacemakers; prescriptions are provided at the initial consultation. Please always advise your dermatologist if you have any artificial devices in place or of any allergies to medications.
There is usually no need to fast before procedures, and patients should always take their normal medications. Blood-thinners such as aspirin or warfarin (or their derivatives) should not be stopped unless advised specifically by your dermatologist.
It may be wise to come along with a friend or relative, as some patients may not feel confident to personally drive home or take public transport after surgery.
Each dermatologist is responsible for setting his or her own fees for surgical procedures. A Medicare rebate is associated with most procedures, which will significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Please discuss the cost of any surgery with your dermatologist. Please also note that any pathology services will also attract a fee.
