If you have had a skin cancer removed, this means that your skin has previously received significant UV exposure, and this accumulated radiation has been enough to cause cellular damage to your skin. The skin surrounding your cancer has received a similar amount of sun damage. This surrounding skin is at increased risk of developing a similar (or worse) cancer.

This phenomena is called field cancerisation.

The above diagram shows some facts about the increased risk of skin cancer, if you have previously been diagnosed with one. For example, if you have had 1-2 skin cancers, your future risk is 40% higher within 3 years.

If you have had a skin cancer removed previously, it is imperative that you conduct regular skin checks to monitor for potential new cancers. The doctors at Bunbury Skin Cancer Clinic can arrange a personalised skin health plan to monitor for signs of any new cancers.

Aside from routine skin checks conducted by one of our doctors, you will be taught to know your own skin. You and your close family see your skin every day, so are best placed to recognize for early signs of melanoma, such as Asymmetery, Borders, Colour, Diameter, and Evolution (ABCDE).

Finally if you have previously been diagnosed with a skin cancer, you should take steps to reduce your future UV exposure. Check out our range of sun safe products available at reception.