Melanoma, also known as malignant melanoma, is a type of skin cancer that develops from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes, which produce melanin—the pigment that gives your skin its colour. When melanocytes start to grow out of control, it leads to melanoma. Although melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer, it is the most dangerous type as it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if it isn’t caught and treated early.
The sooner melanoma is caught and treated, the less disfigurement and complications there are. At TMSC, we carefully excise the lesion with appropriate margins and send it for pathology analysis. Our melanoma surgery Toronto procedures are personalized and tailored to each patient’s specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcome. Our team of experienced board-certified surgeons specializes in melanoma surgery and is dedicated to providing high-quality care for patients diagnosed with this type of skin cancer.
Melanomas exhibit changes in an existing mole or develop as newly pigmented or unusual-looking growth on the skin. To help remember the characteristics that may indicate melanoma, use the ABCDE guide:
Melanomas can look different from one another. Some might show all the typical signs, but others might only display one or two. Also, they can appear on any part of the body.
Melanoma is caused by DNA damage in melanocytes, the melanin-producing cells which give your skin its colour. Exactly what causes this damage is unclear, or it may be a combination of both environmental and genetic factors. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds is believed to be one of the causes. However, UV radiation does not contribute to all melanomas, as indicated by melanomas shielded from sunlight exposure, further adding to evidence that other factors contribute to the development of melanoma.
At The Minor Surgery Center, we carefully excise the melanoma lesion with appropriate margins and send it for pathology analysis.
Our surgeons are highly trained and experienced professionals who care deeply about their patients. Rest assured all of our procedures, including melanoma treatment in Toronto, are carried out with the utmost care, precision, and in a safe environment.
Treatment of melanoma lesions in Toronto is covered by OHIP.
