Skin Cancer Surgery & Reconstruction
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, and the Sunshine Coast is among the most affected regions. As a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon — and a co-author of published research on high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma — Dr Livingston removes skin cancers and reconstructs the area to preserve both function and appearance, with particular expertise in the face, nose, eyelids, ears and lips.
Also known as: Skin cancer excision, BCC, SCC and melanoma surgery, Facial reconstruction after skin cancer
Am I a candidate?
- Adults with a diagnosed or suspected skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma)
- Skin cancers in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas such as the face, nose, eyelids, ears or lips
- Larger, recurrent or high-risk skin cancers that need careful removal and reconstruction
- Patients referred after a biopsy, or after Mohs surgery, who need reconstruction of the resulting defect
The procedure
- The skin cancer is removed with an appropriate margin of healthy tissue, under local or general anaesthesia depending on size and site
- The removed tissue is sent for pathology to confirm the cancer has been completely cleared
- The area is reconstructed using the most suitable technique — direct closure, a local flap, or a skin graft — to restore form and function
- Complex facial reconstruction, and reconstruction after Mohs surgery, is a particular focus
- Further surgery is occasionally required if pathology shows the margins are not yet clear
Recovery
- Recovery depends on the size and site; many excisions are day procedures
- Sutures are typically removed at 5–14 days depending on the area
- Scar care and sun protection are important during healing
- Ongoing skin surveillance is recommended, as people who develop one skin cancer are at higher risk of others
Risks & considerations
Risks include scarring, infection, bleeding, the need for further surgery if margins are not clear, and recurrence of the skin cancer over time. Reconstruction near certain areas carries a small risk of nerve injury. These are discussed in detail, and the balance between complete cancer removal and the best cosmetic result is planned individually.
Medicare & rebates
Skin cancer surgery is a medical procedure and is generally eligible for a Medicare rebate. The exact rebate depends on the lesion and the reconstruction required, and is confirmed at consultation.
Medicare item numbers and eligibility criteria are set by the Australian Government and can change or be revised over time. Your current eligibility is confirmed at your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Why see a plastic surgeon for skin cancer?
A Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon is trained both to remove the cancer completely and to reconstruct the area — which matters most in sensitive areas like the face, nose, eyelids and lips, where appearance and function need to be preserved.
Will I need reconstruction after my skin cancer is removed?
Often, yes — particularly for larger cancers or those on the face. Reconstruction may be a direct closure, a local flap, or a skin graft, chosen to give the best functional and cosmetic result.
Is skin cancer surgery covered by Medicare?
Skin cancer surgery is a medical procedure and is generally eligible for a Medicare rebate. The details depend on the lesion and reconstruction and are confirmed at consultation.
What happens if the cancer is not fully removed?
The removed tissue is checked by pathology. If the margins are not yet clear, a further procedure may be recommended to ensure the cancer is completely removed.
This information is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks; you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual results vary. A consultation with Dr Livingston is required to determine your suitability for any procedure. Dr Ryan Livingston is an AHPRA-registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MED0001523680).