Introduction

Skin health is an essential part of overall wellbeing, and recognising unusual changes in the skin is important for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Skin cancer is a significant health concern in Australia, where prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can increase the risk of developing different types of skin cancer. Understanding the warning signs, available treatment options and importance of regular skin examinations can help individuals take better care of their skin.

Dr Shaun Segal is a skin cancer surgeon based in Perth, Australia, with a professional focus on skin cancer diagnosis, surgical treatment and reconstruction. His approach emphasises individualised care, clear communication and careful treatment planning. From assessing suspicious skin lesions to performing complex surgical procedures, his work focuses on addressing patients' medical needs while considering functional and cosmetic outcomes.

Who Is Dr Shaun Segal?

Dr Shaun Segal is an experienced medical professional specialising in skin cancer medicine and surgery. He completed his initial medical training in Johannesburg, South Africa, graduating with an MBBCh qualification in 1997. His professional journey includes surgical experience in South Africa and England before moving to Australia in 2008.

Over time, he developed a particular interest in skin cancer diagnosis, surgical management and reconstructive procedures. His additional qualifications and professional credentials include MBBCh, FRACGP, FACCO and PDSCS.

His clinical interests include managing skin cancers in challenging anatomical locations, particularly areas such as the nose, ears, eyelids and other sensitive facial regions. These areas often require detailed surgical planning because treatment must consider both the removal of cancerous tissue and the preservation of normal function.

Understanding the Importance of Skin Cancer Diagnosis

Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably. Although it can occur anywhere on the body, it frequently affects areas exposed to sunlight, including the face, neck, arms, hands and scalp.

Recognising unusual skin changes is an important first step towards receiving appropriate medical attention. Some warning signs include:

• A mole that changes its shape, size or colour.
• A new growth that continues to increase in size.
• A sore that does not heal properly.
• A spot that repeatedly bleeds or develops a crust.
• A rough or scaly patch that remains for an extended period.
• A skin lesion that looks different from surrounding marks.

These changes do not necessarily indicate cancer, but they should be assessed by a qualified medical professional. Early assessment can help determine whether further investigation or treatment is necessary.

Common Types of Skin Cancer

Understanding the different types of skin cancer can help patients become more aware of their skin health.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This is one of the most common forms of skin cancer. It often develops on sun-exposed areas and may appear as a pearly bump, pink patch or persistent sore. Although it rarely spreads to distant organs, it can damage surrounding tissue if left untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This type can appear as a scaly patch, firm lump or sore that does not heal. It may grow into deeper tissues and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important.

Melanoma: Melanoma develops from pigment-producing cells in the skin. It may appear as a new mole or a noticeable change in an existing mole. Changes in colour, shape, size or appearance should be assessed promptly.

Each type requires an individual treatment approach based on the diagnosis, location, size and other clinical factors.

Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Assessment

Accurate diagnosis plays a major role in successful skin cancer management. During an examination, a medical professional may review the patient's medical history, previous skin conditions, sun exposure and changes in the affected area.

Dermoscopy may be used to examine skin lesions more closely. This technique helps identify features that may not be visible during an ordinary examination.

If a suspicious lesion requires further investigation, a biopsy may be recommended. This involves collecting a tissue sample for laboratory examination. The pathology results help establish the diagnosis and guide decisions about suitable treatment.

A clear diagnostic process allows patients to understand their condition and discuss the next steps with their treating clinician.

Advanced Skin Cancer Surgery and Treatment

Surgery is a common treatment option for several types of skin cancer. The primary objective is to remove the cancerous tissue while considering the surrounding healthy skin and important anatomical structures.

The surgical approach depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, its size, depth and location. Some cases may require straightforward surgical excision, while others involve more detailed planning.

Dr Shaun Segal has a professional interest in specialised skin cancer surgery, including procedures involving complex excision and reconstruction.

When a skin cancer affects a sensitive facial area, preserving normal function becomes particularly important. For example, surgery around the eyelids must consider eye protection and movement, while procedures involving the nose must account for its structure and function.

Skin Cancer Reconstruction and Cosmetic Considerations

Reconstruction may be necessary after removing a skin cancer, particularly when the resulting wound cannot be closed easily using a simple repair technique.

Two commonly used reconstructive methods include:

Skin Flap Reconstruction: This technique uses nearby healthy tissue to cover the affected area. It can help repair surgical wounds while maintaining the surrounding tissue's blood supply.

Skin Graft Reconstruction: This procedure involves transferring skin from another part of the body to cover the surgical defect.

The choice of technique depends on the wound's size, location, surrounding tissue and individual medical circumstances.

Reconstruction is especially important when treating sensitive areas such as the face, nose, ears and eyelids. Careful planning aims to support healing, preserve function and achieve an appropriate cosmetic result. Patients should also understand that surgical procedures can leave scars and that outcomes vary between individuals.

Slow Mohs Surgery and Margin-Controlled Techniques

Some skin cancers require careful examination of the surgical margins to determine whether cancerous cells remain at the edges of the removed tissue.

Slow Mohs surgery is a specialised margin-controlled technique that may be considered in selected cases. It can be particularly relevant when treating certain skin cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas, where preserving healthy tissue is important.

The suitability of this approach depends on the tumour and individual clinical circumstances. A specialist can explain the procedure, expected timeline and possible reconstructive requirements before treatment begins.

The Importance of Follow-Up Care

Skin cancer management does not always end after surgery. Follow-up appointments are important for reviewing wound healing, discussing pathology results and determining whether additional treatment or monitoring is necessary.

Patients with a previous history of skin cancer may require ongoing skin examinations because they can have an increased risk of developing another lesion.

Following wound-care instructions, attending recommended appointments and reporting unexpected symptoms can support the recovery process.

Long-term monitoring and professional guidance also help patients remain aware of new or changing skin lesions.

Sun Protection and Prevention

Preventive care is an important part of maintaining healthy skin. Reducing excessive UV exposure can help lower the risk of developing certain skin cancers.

Some practical sun-protection measures include:

• Applying broad-spectrum SPF 50 or SPF 50+ sunscreen as directed.
• Wearing protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats.
• Using sunglasses to protect the eyes and surrounding skin.
• Seeking shade when UV radiation levels are high.
• Avoiding tanning beds and deliberate tanning.
• Checking the skin regularly for unusual changes.

People with a history of skin cancer should discuss an appropriate prevention and monitoring plan with their healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Skin cancer awareness, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for maintaining long-term skin health. Recognising unusual changes and seeking professional advice can help individuals understand their condition and explore suitable treatment options.

Dr Shaun Segal's professional focus on skin cancer diagnosis, surgical treatment and reconstruction reflects the importance of individualised medical care. His interests include complex skin cancer surgery, reconstructive techniques and the management of lesions affecting sensitive anatomical areas.

For individuals concerned about a suspicious skin lesion or seeking information about skin cancer treatment in Perth, a professional consultation can provide an opportunity to discuss diagnosis, available procedures and follow-up care. Every treatment decision should be based on individual medical findings and the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

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