Skin Cancers of the Head & Neck

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Australia, with a significant number of cases occurring on the head and neck due to high sun exposure.

Early detection and specialised surgical treatment are essential to achieving the best outcomes while preserving function and appearance.

Overview

The head and neck region is particularly vulnerable to skin cancer due to prolonged sun exposure. The three most common types of skin cancer in this area are:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, slow-growing and rarely spreading but can cause local tissue destruction.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Can be more aggressive, with the potential to spread to lymph nodes and other areas.

Causes

  • Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Weakened immune system
  • Previous history of skin cancer

Symptoms

  • A new or changing skin lesion that does not heal
  • A pearly, scaly, or crusted lesion
  • A sore that bleeds or ulcerates
  • A dark, irregularly shaped mole (possible melanoma)
  • Persistent redness, swelling, or pain around a skin lesion

Risk Factors

  • Fair skin, freckles, and light-coloured eyes
  • A history of sunburns, especially in childhood
  • High levels of outdoor sun exposure (e.g., outdoor workers, athletes)
  • Living in Australia, where skin cancer rates are among the highest in the world
  • A family history of melanoma or other skin cancers
  • Immunosuppression due to medical conditions or medications

Surgical Treatments

  • Excision Surgery – Removing the cancerous lesion with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
  • Mohs Micrographic Surgery – A specialised technique used for high-risk or cosmetically sensitive areas, ensuring precise removal with minimal healthy tissue loss.
  • Reconstructive Surgery – Performed after skin cancer excision to restore appearance and function, especially for larger or complex defects.

Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Cryotherapy (Freezing) – Used for very early-stage, superficial skin cancers.
  • Topical Medications – Creams such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil for pre-cancerous or early skin cancers.
  • Radiotherapy – An option for patients who are not suitable for surgery or for advanced cases requiring additional treatment.

Conclusion

Dr Laura Wang provides expert surgical care for skin cancers of the head and neck, ensuring precise removal while prioritising function and aesthetics. If you have concerns about a suspicious lesion, book a consultation today for a thorough assessment and personalised treatment plan.

Dr Laura Wang is a highly-experienced, fellowship-trained Endocrine and Head & Neck surgeon consulting and operating across Sydney.

Dr Wang holds both a Master of Surgery (MS) Degree and a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in thyroid cancer surgery and performs a high-volume of thyroid and parathyroid surgeries. She was the first surgeon to be dual-trained in both head and neck cancer surgery (for benign and cancerous conditions), as well as microvascular reconstructive surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York, which is the oldest cancer hospital in the world (founded in 1884).

Get in touch to book an appointment. Urgent appointments available for cancer patients.