Procedures and surgery - Melanoma Focus

Melanoma is a serious form of cancer that arises when the pigment-producing cells in the skin (melanocytes) may display as a mole or lesion that grows, changes shape, or colour.

About melanoma

Our experts have created specialist resources including comprehensive information on melanoma stages and treatment to help you make informed choices.

Support

We have a professional membership for clinicians, scientists and nurses in the field of melanoma. We provide key educational resources, the melanoma TrialFinder and research grants, in addition to organising two multidisciplinary meetings each year.

For professionals

We know there is more that can be done to stop melanoma and the suffering it causes, but we need your help.

Get involved

As experts in melanoma, we provide information, guidance and support for patients, carers and healthcare professionals. We have built a community of melanoma specialists who underpin our commitment to melanoma education and research.

About us

Procedures and surgery

Patient Guide Menu

Patient Guide

local excision example

Local excision

Find out about local excision (also known as skin biopsy) and what happens next

wide local excision button

Wide local excision

If your local excision shows you have a melanoma you will need a wide local excision (find out more)

sentinel lymph node biopsy

Sentinel lymph node biopsy

Our animations explain the lymphatic system and what happens during a sentinel lymph node biopsy

Surgery for advanced melanoma button

What to look out for after surgery

Find out how to check your lymph nodes and what to look out for after surgery