Using this guide What's covered
Here you’ll find the answers to many of your questions about skin tumour removal. Learn how it works, what it may cost, what your recovery may be like, and more.
Cost indicator
Discover the typical out-pocket costs HCF members can expect to pay for skin tumour removal, and learn how your choice of doctor and hospital affect that cost.
Malignant melanoma costs
Basal cell costs
The basics
What is a skin tumour?
A skin tumour is an abnormal growth of tissue, that generally provides no useful function. They may be classified as benign or malignant.
Benign
Benign tumours are non-cancerous, usually slow growing and usually grow locally without spreading to surrounding tissues. The cells don't separate and travel via the bloodstream or lymphatic vessels to form masses in other parts of the body.
Benign tumour cells closely resemble the normal cells from which they originate. In most cases – unless the tumour becomes a problem by either growing bigger, being uncomfortable or unsightly – there's no need for removal.
Malignant
Malignant tumours multiply more rapidly and are made up of cancerous cells that don’t perform the functions of normal cells. These cancerous cells vary in size and shape and proliferate in a disorganised way.
Malignant tumours can separate from the main site and pass through the blood or lymphatic vessels to create a new tumour far from the original. The second tumour is called a metastasis. Malignant tumours need to be removed because they can grow more quickly and continue to spread to other areas of the body.
The details
PREPARING FOR SURGERY
Types of skin tumours
How tumours grow and what they may look like.
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Are you at risk?
Major risk factors and the importance of early detection.
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Choosing a specialist
How to find a surgeon who specialises in your procedure.
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Questions for your specialist
What you should be asking before going ahead with surgery.
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Treatment options
Your treatment will depend on the type of tumour and whether it has spread.
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Preparing for your procedure
Pre-operative tests and what to take to hospital.
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surgery and aftercare
Going to hospital
What to expect on the day of your procedure.
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Your procedure
What happens in the operating theatre.
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Afterwards
Your aftercare and recovery.
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Give us feedback
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To provide feedback, email us at wellbeing@hcf.com.au.
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Important information
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.