The Difference Between a Dermatologist and a Plastic Surgeon for Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is one of the most common health conditions affecting Australians. When a suspicious lesion is identified, patients may encounter several different types of specialists involved in diagnosis and treatment.

Two medical professionals frequently involved in skin cancer care are dermatologists and plastic surgeons. While both play important roles, their training and focus within skin cancer management are different.

Understanding these roles can help patients better navigate the treatment process.

The Role of Dermatologists in Skin Cancer Care

Dermatologists are medical specialists who focus on conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails. They receive advanced training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin diseases, including skin cancer.

Dermatologists commonly perform:

● Comprehensive skin examinations
● Dermatoscopic evaluation of moles and lesions
● Skin biopsies
● Diagnosis of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers
● Certain surgical treatments for skin cancers

Many dermatologists also perform procedures such as Mohs micrographic surgery, which is used for some skin cancers to remove cancerous tissue while preserving healthy skin.

Because dermatologists specialize in skin diseases, they are often the first specialist involved in diagnosing suspicious lesions.

The Role of Plastic Surgeons in Skin Cancer Treatment

Specialist plastic surgeons are medical specialists trained in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Their training focuses on restoring the body’s form and function following trauma, disease, or surgical removal of tissue.

In skin cancer care, plastic surgeons are frequently involved when:

● A lesion is located in a complex anatomical area
● A larger amount of tissue must be removed
● Reconstruction is needed following cancer excision
● Functional structures such as the eyelids, lips, or nose may be affected

Plastic surgeons perform a variety of reconstructive procedures designed to repair the area after cancer removal.

These procedures may include:

● Local flap reconstruction
● Skin grafting
● Layered closure techniques
● Reconstruction of facial structures

The goal is to restore both the appearance and function of the affected area.

When Both Specialists Work Together

In many cases, dermatologists and plastic surgeons collaborate in the treatment of skin cancer.

For example:

● A dermatologist may diagnose the cancer and remove the lesion.
● A plastic surgeon may perform reconstruction if a larger defect remains.

This collaborative approach is particularly common when skin cancers occur in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas of the face.

Working together allows each specialist to contribute their expertise to different aspects of care.

Why Location of Skin Cancer Matters

Skin cancers frequently occur on areas that receive high levels of sun exposure, including the face, scalp, neck, and ears.

These areas contain important anatomical structures that influence facial movement, vision, breathing, and speech. Removing skin cancer in these locations may require careful planning to avoid disrupting these functions.

Plastic surgeons are specifically trained in reconstructive techniques designed to restore these structures after surgery.

Skin Cancer and Facial Reconstruction

When a skin cancer is removed, the resulting surgical site may vary in size depending on the type of cancer and the margins required to ensure complete removal.

Reconstruction may involve techniques that reposition nearby skin, redistribute tension, or replace tissue in order to maintain natural contours.

Each procedure is tailored to the individual patient and the location of the defect.

Skin Cancer Care in Sydney

Due to Australia’s high levels of sun exposure, skin cancer is a significant public health concern across the country, including in Sydney.

Many patients require multidisciplinary care involving different specialists.

A/Prof Damian Marucci is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Sydney with extensive training in reconstructive procedures. His surgical background includes experience in complex facial reconstruction, which can be an important component of skin cancer treatment when tissue repair is required after excision.

Patients referred for specialist consultation are typically those whose treatment may involve reconstructive considerations.

When Should You See a Plastic Surgeon for Skin Cancer?

Patients may be referred to a plastic surgeon if:

● The skin cancer is located on the face
● Reconstruction may be required after removal
● The lesion is large or complex
● Previous treatments have not been successful
● The cancer is located near delicate structures

A referral from a GP or dermatologist is commonly used to coordinate this care.

The Importance of Skin Cancer Awareness

Regardless of which specialist performs treatment, early detection remains essential.

Australians are encouraged to:

● Have regular skin checks
● Protect their skin from excessive sun exposure
● Monitor changes in moles or skin lesions
● Seek medical advice for any concerning skin changes

Early assessment and treatment can help reduce the complexity of surgery and improve overall outcomes.

Both dermatologists and plastic surgeons play valuable roles in the management of skin cancer. Dermatologists often focus on diagnosis and medical management of skin disease, while plastic surgeons may become involved when surgical removal requires reconstructive expertise.

Patients with concerns about skin cancer should begin by consulting their GP or skin specialist, who can recommend the most appropriate treatment pathway.