Melanoma

Melanoma treatment is suitable for all individuals who have been diagnosed with melanoma, a type of skin cancer. The treatment you’ll need will depend on various factors including the stage (spread) of the cancer and the depth of the tumour. The type and combination of treatments recommended will depend on several factors but largely the type of melanoma and if it has spread. Jonathan will work with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

Jonathan will review any symptoms you may have experienced and ask about any risk factors, such as family history of melanoma or excessive sun exposure. Following the discussion, he will perform a physical examination, carefully examining any moles or lesions on your skin, paying close attention to their size, shape, colour, and symmetry. A biopsy is the definitive way to diagnose melanoma. It involves removing the lesion and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. If melanoma is diagnosed, Jonathan will explain the stage of the cancer and discuss treatment options. He may also recommend additional tests, such as imaging scans, to determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

While the surgical procedure itself may not be painful due to anaesthetic, the recovery period can cause some discomfort. Patients may experience pain, swelling, and bruising at the surgical site. Pain medications and other supportive measures are often prescribed to manage these post-operative symptoms.

Melanoma treatment may be one to two surgical procedures or in cases where oncology treatment is required, it may last for several months or longer. For early-stage melanoma, the most common treatment is surgical removal of the tumour. After surgery, you will need regular follow-up appointments and monitoring to ensure that the cancer has not returned or spread. This follow-up period can last for a few years. In cases where melanoma has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body, additional treatments may be necessary.

In the early stages of melanoma, when the cancer is localised and has not spread beyond the skin, the successful surgical removal of the tumour can result in a complete cure. However, if the melanoma has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs, additional treatments such as immunotherapy or targeted therapy may be required. In these cases, the goal is to eradicate the cancer, manage symptoms and improve quality of life. While these treatments can be effective in slowing down the progression of melanoma and extending survival, they may not always lead to a complete cure. It is important to understand that every individual’s response to treatment can vary.

While melanoma treatments can be effective, there are also risks involved. Surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, scarring, fluid collections and lymphoedema. Jonathan will talk you through any risks you may be exposed to during your treatment, as well as the precautions he will take to ensure you remain safe and comfortable.