Skin surgery

RD&E Heavitree, Gladstone Rd, Exeter EX1 2ED

Department of Dermatology

Suspected skin cancers are referred to us via the two week wait system. Patients with suspected cancer are seen in dedicated clinics, with facilities for skin biopsy and simple skin excisions for lesions that require urgent treatment.

We have four GP led community services for treating skin cancer:

• Tiverton: Dr James Wood, Dr Helen Crighton and Dr Jon Williams
• Exeter: Dr Victoria Chamberlain, the Heavitree Practice
• Exmouth: Dr William Willcock, Rolle surgery Exmouth
• Sidmouth: Dr Duncan Hall and Dr Andrew Rosewarne

Clinical Lead

• Dr Helen Frow

Dermatology

Most surgery for skin cancer is carried out in our own day case unit. Simple operations can sometimes be carried out on the day of your clinic appointment.

More complex skin cancers, such as those that have recurred after previous treatment, might require Mohs surgery, which we offer here. Mohs (named after the surgeon who created the procedure) involves removal of the skin cancer in stages. We test the skin that has been removed to see where the cancer cells are and to make sure that they are completely removed before we repair the area on your skin. Further information on Mohs surgery can be found here. 

A skin cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a huge impact on your social and psychological wellbeing. It is important to tell your GP or dermatology doctor about this during your consultation if it is relevant for you so that we can signpost you for further help in this regard.

Locally, we work with Talkworks who can offer support and advice.

There are also links to support groups and resources for many skin conditions at the following website.

Changing Faces is a support group for people living with disfigurement.

The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) have produced a number of patient information leaflets (PILs) to help you understand more about a particular skin condition.

They inform you what the condition is, what causes it, what can be done about it and where you can find out more information about it. Where possible, they advise you on what you can do yourself on a day-to-day basis to help with your skin condition. 

For accessibility queries related to different formats including large print, please visit the British Association of Dermatologists Skinhealth website.

Browse Patient Information Leaflets

Eastern services - additional leaflets

Care of your wound following diagnostic punch biopsy (RDE 19 229 001)

Care of your stitched wound after your operation (RDE 19 137 002)

Skin Flaps and Grafts in Dermatology (RDE 20 080 001)

Secondary Intention Wound Healing (RDE 20 081 001)

We have a dedicated section of the website for guidance, referral information and other useful information for Healthcare Professionals.

Find out more