Skin Cancer Surgery & Reconstruction
ABOUT THE PROCEDURE
Skin oncology is a core part of Mr Ibrahim's practice, and an area where the combination of oncological rigour and reconstructive expertise genuinely matters. Removing a skin cancer completely is the non-negotiable priority — but how the resulting defect is closed, and what function and appearance are preserved, depends heavily on the skill and experience of the reconstructing surgeon. Mr Ibrahim brings both to every case, working in close collaboration with dermatologists and oncologists across his hospital appointments.
The three most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. Each requires a different approach to excision margins, reconstruction, and follow-up, and Mr Ibrahim tailors the surgical plan accordingly.
What Skin Cancer Surgery Involves
Surgery involves excising the cancer with an appropriate margin of normal-appearing tissue — four to five millimetres for BCC; four to six millimetres (or more for high-risk lesions) for SCC; and zero point five to two centimetres for melanoma, depending on tumour thickness. The specimen is sent to pathology to confirm complete removal.
Reconstruction is planned based on the size, depth, and location of the defect, and the importance of preserving function and appearance in that area. Options include:
Primary closure: Direct suturing of the wound edges along natural skin tension lines. Suitable for smaller defects where closure can be achieved without distortion.
Full-thickness skin grafts: Skin taken from a discreet donor site provides good colour and texture match for facial or hand defects.
Local flaps: Adjacent tissue is rearranged to close the defect, maintaining its own blood supply and providing superior cosmetic results. Mr Ibrahim uses a wide range of flap designs for different locations and defect sizes.
Regional or free flaps: For larger or more complex defects, tissue from a nearby or distant donor site is transferred — drawing on Mr Ibrahim's extensive microsurgical training.
Your Recovery
Recovery depends on the complexity of excision and reconstruction. Simple excisions involve minimal downtime — sutures removed at five to fourteen days, with a return to normal activities within days to two weeks. Skin grafts require immobilisation for five to seven days while blood vessels grow. Local flap reconstructions involve one to two weeks of swelling, with gradual return to full activity over four to six weeks. Pathology results are reviewed at follow-up, typically within one to two weeks.
Long-term surveillance is essential for all patients. Mr Ibrahim coordinates ongoing follow-up with dermatology to monitor for recurrence and detect any new skin cancers early.
Risks & Complications
Infection, bleeding, or haematoma
Wound healing problems or wound separation
Unfavourable scarring
Graft failure — partial or complete
Flap necrosis
Need for further excision if margins are involved
Recurrence — varies by cancer type and completeness of excision
Functional change depending on location
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need further surgery after the initial excision? Only if pathology shows cancer cells at the margins. Mr Ibrahim will discuss results with you at your follow-up appointment.
Why is it important that my surgeon is a reconstructive specialist? Having excision and reconstruction planned together by the same surgeon generally leads to better outcomes, particularly for cancers on the face, hands, or other areas where function and appearance are important.
How can I reduce my risk of further skin cancers? Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours, never using tanning beds, regular self-examination, and consistent professional skin checks are all important.
MR SAFWAT IBRAHIM
Skin Cancer Surgery in Dublin
If you have been diagnosed with a skin cancer or have a suspicious lesion, contact Mr Ibrahim's rooms to arrange a prompt assessment. He will ensure complete, safe removal and the best possible reconstruction — and will work with your dermatologist and oncology team throughout.