In short
Skin cancer includes basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. Warning signs include a non-healing sore, a scaly patch, a growing lump or a pigmented mole that changes shape, colour or size.
Do not delay assessment of a rapidly growing lesion, a non-healing sore or a mole that clearly changes in appearance.
What happens at the examination
The surgeon reviews how the lesion has developed and assesses its appearance, size, location and surrounding skin. The degree of suspicion determines whether excision can be planned directly or another specialist pathway is required.
- Medical assessment of the lesion
- Planning safe excision
- Decision on tissue analysis
- Prompt referral when another level of care is required
Treatment options
The most suitable treatment is decided after an individual medical assessment.
After treatment
You receive advice on dressings, showering, activity and suture removal. If tissue is analysed, we explain how the result and any next steps will be communicated.
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
Can you tell immediately whether it is cancer?
The appearance provides guidance, but a definite diagnosis often requires microscopic tissue analysis.
Can the lesion be removed at the first visit?
This may be possible in selected, pre-arranged cases. Otherwise the procedure is planned after assessment.
What happens if the result shows skin cancer?
You receive the result and a plan for any additional surgery or specialist care.
Medically reviewed by Dr Elias Tsiolis, specialist in general surgery, senior consultantUpdated 2026-10-25This text does not replace an individual assessment.