Skin Cancer Treatment Specialist

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, and over 3,000 skin cancer cases occur in Singapore yearly. Fortunately, it is also one of the most treatable cancers when detected early. Even melanoma, a particularly aggressive but highly curable type of skin cancer, can be effectively managed with timely and early intervention.

Dr Gerard Ee is a skin cancer specialist in Singapore committed to providing comprehensive skin cancer treatment for patients, with a focus on early detection and personalised care. Read on to find out more about the different skin cancer types and common treatment options in Singapore.

Dr Gerard Ee
MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), DP Dermatology (Cardiff)

About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer develops when skin cells begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably, often due to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This uncontrolled growth can form malignant tumours that may appear as new growths, changing moles, or sores that don’t heal. Skin cancer most commonly occurs on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, arms, and legs.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are several types of skin cancer, each with its own distinct characteristics and requiring specific treatment approaches.

Basal cell carcinoma of the skin (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually appears as a pearly or waxy bump, often on the face, ears, or neck. BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body but can cause localised damage if left untreated. It’s crucial to seek timely treatment to prevent potential disfigurement or complications.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer. It often appears as a firm, red nodule or a scaly patch on sun-exposed areas. While usually not life-threatening, SCC can spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. Early detection and treatment are vital to prevent potential spread and ensure the best possible outcome.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. Malignant melanoma of the skin can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin. It is highly aggressive and can spread quickly to other organs if not detected and treated early with prompt, aggressive treatment.

Skin Cancer Treatment Options

Dr. Gerard Ee offers a range of skin cancer treatment options tailored to a patient’s specific condition. These options include:

Surgical excision is the most common treatment for skin cancer. It involves surgically removing the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal and minimise the risk of recurrence. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia and may leave a small scar, depending on the size and location of the lesion.

Mohs surgery is a specialised technique used for skin cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas (e.g. the face and neck) or those with a high risk of recurrence. It involves removing the cancer layer by layer and examining each layer under a microscope until all cancerous cells are gone. This treatment approach maximises cancer removal while preserving healthy tissue, leading to improved cosmetic outcomes and reduced recurrence rates.

Immunotherapy and chemotherapy use medications to stimulate the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells (immunotherapy) or directly kill cancer cells (chemotherapy). Immunotherapy stimulates the immune system to better recognise and target cancer cells, while chemotherapy utilises drugs that are toxic to cells to eradicate the cells directly.

These treatments may be used for advanced skin cancers or those that have spread to other parts of the body. Chemotherapy’s aggressive nature can also lead to severe side effects such as nausea and hair loss, which a doctor will take into consideration before pursuing a treatment path.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, depending on the type and stage of skin cancer. It is often recommended for patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery or for those with larger or more aggressive skin cancers. It can also be used after surgery to eliminate any residual cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection, such as through a skin biopsy, is crucial in the successful treatment of skin cancer. Early-stage skin cancers, especially BCC and SCC, can often be completely cured with simple treatments. Early detection of melanoma also greatly improves treatment outcomes, as it is much more treatable in its early stages.

Specialists such as Dr Ee encourage regular self-examination and professional skin cancer screenings in Singapore to identify any suspicious lesions early on. By taking a proactive approach to skin health and seeking timely medical attention, you can significantly improve your chances of successful treatment and long-term well-being.

Learn More About Dr Gerard Ee

MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), DP Dermatology (Cardiff)

Dr Gerard Ee is a medical aesthetic doctor specialising in skin cancer treatments and acne laser treatments in Singapore. He earned his medical degree (MBBS) from St George’s University of London before pursuing further training and becoming a member of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) in Edinburgh. He has also attained DP Dermatology from Cardiff University and worked at Singapore General Hospital (SGH), National University Hospital (NUH), and Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.

Dr Ee has accreditations in applications of Botox, fillers, lasers, and light therapy for medical aesthetic purposes. His areas of expertise include:

  • Acne and Acne Scar Treatment
  • Medical Aesthetics
  • Skin Rejuvenation

Dr Ee believes in building strong relationships with individuals based on trust and open communication. He takes the time to understand their concerns and goals, creating personalised treatment plans tailored to their specific needs. He is committed to providing a comfortable and supportive environment where patients of all ages, genders, and backgrounds feel empowered to make informed decisions about their skin health and appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Cancer Treatment

Yes, skin cancer can recur after treatment, although the likelihood depends on various factors such as the type of skin cancer, its stage at diagnosis, and the treatment method used. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) generally have a relatively low risk of recurrence, especially when detected and treated early. However, melanoma has a higher chance of returning, particularly if it was diagnosed at an advanced stage.

To minimise the risk of recurrence, it’s important to schedule regular follow-up appointments and skin cancer screenings with your doctor or cancer specialist. This enables early detection of any new or recurrent skin cancers, enabling prompt treatment and improved outcomes. Patients should also practise sun safety measures to reduce the risk of developing new skin cancers.

Protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure is the most effective way to prevent skin cancer. This includes:

  • Trying to stay in the shade as much as possible during peak sun hours (around 10am-4pm).
  • Covering up exposed skin with long-sleeved shirts, long pants, wide-brimmed hats, or sunglasses when outdoors.
  • Applying broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
  • Reapplying sunscreen every two to four hours when outdoors.
  • Avoiding tanning beds.

You should also perform regular self-exams to look for any new or changing moles or spots. If you notice anything suspicious, schedule an appointment with a skin cancer or melanoma specialist in Singapore, such as Dr Ee, for a professional screening. Early detection is key to successful skin cancer treatment.

The frequency of follow-up skin cancer screenings after treatment depends on several factors, including the type of skin cancer you had, its stage at diagnosis, your individual risk factors, and your doctor or specialist’s recommendations.

Generally, patients who have been treated for BCC or SCC may need check-ups every few months for the first few years, then annually or less frequently if there are no signs of recurrence. However, melanoma patients may require more frequent monitoring, potentially every 3 to 6 months initially, and then annually or as advised by their doctor.

During these follow-up appointments, your doctor will examine your skin for any signs of recurrence or new skin cancers and may perform a skin biopsy if necessary.