Skin cancer can look like a changing mole, a new or unusual spot, or a sore that doesn’t heal. Knowing what to look for can help you seek a medical assessment promptly.
Dr. Robert Backstein and Dr. Richard Backstein are Royal College-certified plastic surgeons who founded The Centre for Minor Surgery to treat benign and cancerous skin lesions. Their work includes mole removal and surgery for diagnosed skin cancers, with attention to removing the lesion and planning for how the area will heal.
In this post, we answer common questions about warning signs, diagnosis, treatment, and when to have a concerning spot checked.
1. What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?
Skin cancer can manifest itself in various ways. Common signs and symptoms include:
- New or changing moles or growths on the skin
- A pearly or pink bump that may bleed or crust
- A rough, scaly patch or a firm, wart-like growth
- Asymmetrical moles or color variations within a mole
- Sores that don’t heal within a few weeks
- Irregularly shaped or discolored patches on the skin
- Itching, tenderness, or bleeding in an area of the skin
- Moles larger than 6 mm in diameter
- Spots that are different from surrounding skin, either in texture or color
2. When Should I Have a Mole or Skin Spot Checked?
Have a healthcare provider assess a mole or spot that changes, bleeds, crusts, or does not heal. You don’t need to decide whether it looks like skin cancer before seeking an assessment. If a mole concerns you, The Centre for Minor Surgery can evaluate it and discuss whether mole removal is appropriate.
3. How Is Skin Cancer Diagnosed?
Early detection plays a crucial role in successfully treating skin cancer. To diagnose skin cancer, your healthcare provider may:
- Conduct a visual examination of your skin to identify any suspicious areas
- Perform a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken from the affected area for further examination under a microscope
4. What Is the Treatment for Skin Cancer?
Treatment depends on the type of skin cancer and the size and location of the lesion. Options may include:
- Surgical Excision: This procedure involves removing the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. The removed tissue is examined to determine whether additional treatment is needed.
- Curettage and Electrodesiccation: During this procedure, the cancerous tissue is shaved away, and the area is then treated using an electric current to destroy any remaining diseased cells.
After a larger cancer is removed, the surgeon may use a skin flap or skin graft to close the wound. Your healthcare provider will recommend an approach based on your diagnosis.
5. What Are the Potential Side Effects of Treatment?
Like any medical procedure, skin cancer treatment may have potential side effects. These can include:
- Scarring: Depending on the extent of the procedure, scarring may occur. However, our skilled surgeons strive to minimize scarring and optimize cosmetic outcomes.
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection after surgery, but proper wound care and follow-up with your healthcare provider can help mitigate this risk.
- Changes in sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in sensation near the surgical site. This could include numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity.
6. Is Skin Cancer Curable?
The good news is that many cases of skin cancer can be successfully treated, especially when detected and addressed early. The specific treatment and prognosis depend on factors such as the type and stage of the cancer and individual patient characteristics.
Early intervention significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and a positive outcome.
7. What Are the Chances of Recurrence?
The chances of skin cancer recurring after treatment vary from patient to patient and depend on factors such as the type, stage, and location of the cancer. It is crucial to undergo regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor for any signs of recurrence or new skin abnormalities. Additionally, adopting sun-safe practices and being diligent about skin self-examinations can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Request a Consultation
Early detection and treatment are key to successful outcomes. At The Centre for Minor Surgery, your well-being is our top priority. If you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to call our office today at (416) 663-9649 or request a consultation using the online form.
This blog post was originally published in June 2023 and updated in September 2026.
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