Learn about Melanoma Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Melanoma and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Melanoma

Melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigment. Diagnosis and treatment are primarily performed by a dermatologist, a specialist in skin health. The procedure typically begins with a thorough skin examination, often using dermoscopy to magnify and analyze suspicious moles or lesions. If melanoma is suspected, a biopsy is performed to remove a tissue sample for pathological analysis, confirming the diagnosis and determining its stage. Treatment depends on the stage and may involve surgical excision to remove the cancer and a margin of healthy tissue, sentinel lymph node biopsy to check for spread, or more advanced therapies for later stages. Early detection and treatment by a dermatologist are critical for the best possible outcome.

Key Highlights

    Early detection significantly improves survival rates and treatment outcomes.Performed by a specialized dermatologist with expertise in skin cancer.Accurate diagnosis through biopsy and pathological analysis.Tailored treatment plans based on the specific stage and characteristics of the melanoma.Minimally invasive surgical options are often available for early-stage melanomas.Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care to manage recurrence risk./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • A new, changing, or unusual mole on the skin (as per the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving).
  • A personal or strong family history of melanoma.
  • Presence of numerous or atypical moles (dysplastic nevus syndrome).
  • A lesion that is bleeding, itching, or crusting.
  • Follow-up for a previously treated melanoma to monitor for recurrence.
  • Diagnostic confirmation of a suspicious skin lesion identified during a routine skin check.

How to prepare

  • Undergo a comprehensive skin examination by the dermatologist.
  • Discuss your full medical history, including previous skin cancers and medications (especially blood thinners).
  • Provide a list of all current medications, supplements, and allergies.
  • For a scheduled surgical procedure, you may be asked to fast for a few hours if sedation is planned.
  • Avoid applying lotions, creams, or makeup to the area on the day of the procedure.
  • Arrange for transportation home if sedation or anesthesia is involved.

Risks & possible complications

  • Bleeding, bruising, or infection at the biopsy or surgical site.
  • Scarring or changes in skin texture at the treatment area.
  • Allergic reaction to local anesthesia or other medications.
  • Nerve damage, potentially causing temporary or permanent numbness.
  • Incomplete removal of cancer cells, requiring further treatment.
  • Risks associated with lymph node biopsy, such as lymphedema (swelling).
  • Recurrence of melanoma at the original site or elsewhere.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Keep the wound clean, dry, and covered as per the dermatologist's instructions.
  • Manage pain with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as advised.
  • Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and swimming for the time specified by your doctor.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments for suture removal (if non-dissolvable) and wound check.
  • Protect the scar from sun exposure with high-SPF sunscreen to aid healing and prevent darkening.
  • Monitor the site for signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, pus, fever) and report them immediately.
  • Adhere to a schedule for regular full-body skin exams as part of long-term surveillance.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0-2 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1-4 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering melanoma in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for melanoma compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 54 – USD 2,719 0-2 days ~ 1-4 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 403 – USD 20,131 0-2 days ~ 1-4 weeks Know More
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