Skin Cancer

New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world due to high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels and a predominantly fair-skinned population. Most skin cancers are caused by cumulative sun exposure over many years, although melanoma can also occur in younger people. Early detection is important because most skin cancers can be treated successfully when diagnosed promptly. Our dermatologists provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer using evidence-based techniques. We offer full skin examinations, dermoscopy, skin biopsies, surgical treatment under local anaesthetic, cryotherapy, and medical treatments where appropriate.

If you notice a new or changing mole, a sore that does not heal within four weeks, a persistent scaly patch, or a lump that continues to grow, it should be assessed by a dermatologist. Early diagnosis leads to simpler treatment and the best possible outcomes.

Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches that develop on sun-exposed skin after years of UV damage. They are not skin cancers themselves but are considered precancerous because a small proportion can progress to squamous cell carcinoma. They commonly occur on the face, scalp, ears, hands and forearms. Treatment reduces the risk of progression and improves the appearance and texture of the skin. Options include cryotherapy, topical prescription creams, photodynamic therapy and treatment of larger areas of sun damage when appropriate.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer in New Zealand. It usually develops from sun-damaged skin and may appear as a persistent scaly patch, tender lump or non-healing sore. While many SCCs grow slowly, some can spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body if left untreated. Early diagnosis is therefore important. Treatment most commonly involves surgical removal under local anaesthetic, with other treatments considered for selected superficial lesions or patients.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer and accounts for the majority of skin cancers diagnosed each year. It often appears as a pearly bump, persistent sore or slowly enlarging pink patch that does not heal. Although BCCs rarely spread elsewhere in the body, they continue to enlarge and can cause significant local damage if untreated. Most basal cell carcinomas are treated successfully with surgery under local anaesthetic. Selected superficial BCCs may also be suitable for topical therapy or other non-surgical treatments.

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer because it has the potential to spread to other parts of the body. New Zealand has one of the highest melanoma rates globally, making early detection especially important. Melanomas can develop within an existing mole or arise as a new pigmented or changing lesion. Regular skin examinations and prompt assessment of changing spots greatly improve the chance of successful treatment. Most melanomas are treated surgically, with additional treatment depending on the stage of the disease.

Surgery remains the gold standard treatment for most skin cancers. Procedures are performed under local anaesthetic in our purpose-built procedure room, allowing patients to remain awake while ensuring excellent pain control. The affected lesion is removed together with an appropriate safety margin, and the specimen is examined by a specialist pathologist. Depending on the size and location, wounds may be closed directly or reconstructed using advanced techniques to optimise both healing and cosmetic outcome. Our dermatologists perform a wide range of skin cancer surgery, from simple excisions to more complex repairs.

Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal skin cells. It is a quick treatment commonly used for actinic keratoses, viral warts and selected superficial skin lesions. Most treatments take only a few seconds and do not require anaesthetic. After treatment, the area may blister, scab and heal over one to three weeks. Occasionally, more than one treatment session is required to achieve complete clearance.

Some precancerous lesions and selected superficial skin cancers can be treated using prescription creams rather than surgery. These medications stimulate the body's immune response or selectively destroy abnormal skin cells while treating areas of sun damage that may contain multiple invisible lesions. Commonly used treatments include 5-fluorouracil and imiquimod. Treatment usually causes temporary redness, inflammation and crusting, indicating that abnormal cells are responding. We will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your diagnosis, the location of the lesion and your individual circumstances.