Introduction — fast, clear guidance
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells). Early detection and the right treatment plan make a major difference — many early melanomas are curable with a simple surgical procedure, while advanced cases need coordinated medical and surgical care. This guide explains modern melanoma treatment options, follow-up, choosing a specialist in Delhi, and answers common patient questions in plain language.
Quick overview of treatment approach
- Diagnosis first: suspicious spots are excised or biopsied to confirm melanoma and measure depth (Breslow thickness).
- Local control: for localized melanoma the primary treatment is surgical removal (wide local excision) with margins based on depth. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is considered for intermediate- and some high-risk thin melanomas to check spread.
- If nodes or metastasis are found: multidisciplinary care may include lymph node surgery, targeted therapy (for specific mutations such as BRAF), immunotherapy, and occasionally radiotherapy or systemic chemotherapy.
- Follow-up & surveillance: regular skin and lymph-node examinations are scheduled according to stage; higher-stage patients have closer follow-up with imaging when indicated.
Diagnosis — how specialists confirm melanoma
When a dermatologist suspects melanoma they will usually perform a full-thickness excisional biopsy (best for most suspicious lesions) so the pathologist can measure depth and look for aggressive features. Dermoscopy (skin microscopy) is often used in clinic to decide which lesions need biopsy. Pathology results (including Breslow thickness, ulceration and mitotic rate) guide staging and next steps. Accurate biopsy is essential because it determines whether a sentinel lymph node biopsy or wider surgery is needed.
Main treatment options explained (what you’re likely to be offered)
1. Wide local excision (surgery) — the cornerstone
Surgical removal of the primary melanoma with a margin of normal skin is the primary curative treatment for localized melanoma. Margin width depends on tumor thickness and location. For many patients this surgery alone is curative.
2. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) — staging, not always therapeutic
SLNB is a minimally invasive procedure to check whether microscopic cancer has spread to the nearest lymph node(s). It’s commonly offered for melanomas of certain thicknesses or with high-risk features, because a positive node changes staging and often triggers additional options (e.g., adjuvant therapy).
3. Adjuvant immunotherapy — reducing recurrence risk
For patients at higher risk of recurrence (stage IIB/C and stage III after surgery), checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapies such as anti–PD-1 drugs are commonly used as adjuvant therapy to reduce the chance the cancer returns. These agents are prescribed and monitored by medical oncologists in coordination with dermatology and surgical teams.
4. Targeted therapy for BRAF-mutant melanoma
If molecular testing shows a BRAF V600 mutation, targeted oral drugs (BRAF inhibitors combined with MEK inhibitors) may be highly effective in controlling disease and are an important option in advanced or adjuvant settings. Genetic testing of the tumor is standard for patients with stage III–IV disease or those needing systemic therapy.
5. Radiotherapy and other therapies
Radiotherapy is occasionally used for local control (e.g., when surgery is not feasible, or for palliation). Clinical trials and evolving systemic therapies mean multidisciplinary discussion is important for every case.
What to expect after melanoma is removed (healing & follow-up)
- Immediate healing: wound healing depends on the size and location of the excision and whether reconstruction (flap/graft) was needed. Most small excisions heal within weeks; larger repairs take longer.
- Pathology-guided plan: your final pathology report determines whether further surgery, SLNB, or adjuvant therapy is recommended.
- Surveillance: follow-up frequency depends on stage — low-stage patients may be seen less often, while higher-stage patients have physical exams and imaging at closer intervals during the first 2–3 years when recurrence risk is highest. Regular full-skin exams for life are commonly advised.
Choosing the best doctor for melanoma treatment in Delhi
When searching for melanoma treatment in Delhi, pick a team with experience in skin cancer management:
- A dermatologist or dermato-oncologist who performs diagnostic biopsies and coordinates care.
- Access to surgical oncology or specialist skin-cancer surgeons for wide excision and lymph-node procedures.
- Medical oncology expertise for immunotherapy and targeted drugs.
- Facilities that offer accurate histopathology and molecular testing (BRAF status) and clear multidisciplinary tumor-board discussions.
If you are looking for care close to home, search for “melanoma treatment in South Delhi Safdarjung Enclave” or “melanoma treatment in West Delhi Bali Nagar” to find local clinics and hospital teams who coordinate these services.
Local care note — getting melanoma treatment in South & West Delhi
Delhi has specialty dermatology and oncology centers that work together to treat melanoma. For localized lesions, many dermatology clinics perform diagnostic excision and then either complete the surgery or refer to a skin-cancer surgeon. For node-positive or advanced disease, referral to a multidisciplinary cancer center is standard. If you prefer local continuity of care, ask whether the clinic coordinates with surgical oncology and medical oncology teams for seamless treatment and follow-up.
People Also Ask
What happens after melanoma is removed?
After removal, the excised specimen is examined by a pathologist. If the pathology shows high-risk features or positive nodes, further treatment (SLNB, wider surgery, adjuvant immunotherapy or targeted therapy) may be recommended; routine follow-up visits and skin checks are scheduled based on stage.
Can you be cured from melanoma?
Yes — many early melanomas are cured by surgical removal alone. Cure rates fall as stage increases, which is why early detection and prompt treatment are critical. Adjuvant therapies have improved outcomes for higher-risk cases.
What happens if you are diagnosed with melanoma?
You will usually undergo staging tests after biopsy (pathology review, possible imaging for higher stages). Treatment planning involves surgery for the primary tumor, consideration of SLNB, and multidisciplinary discussion about adjuvant therapies or further procedures if nodes or metastasis are found.
What is the biggest symptom of melanoma?
The most important sign is a changing or new pigmented spot — changes in size, shape, colour, or a lesion that bleeds or doesn’t heal. The ABCDE rule (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter >6 mm, Evolving) is a practical self-check, but any suspicious change should be examined promptly. (Remember: not all melanomas are dark; amelanotic lesions exist.)
Where is the most common spot for melanoma to start?
Melanoma can appear anywhere on the skin. In men it often appears on the trunk (back); in women, it’s more common on the legs — but patterns vary and areas of sun exposure or unusual lesions should be checked. Early professional assessment matters.
Practical patient checklist — what to bring to your first appointment
- The pathology report or biopsy slides if already done.
- Photos of how the lesion looked over time (if available).
- List of current medications, past skin cancers, family history of skin cancer.
- Any previous treatment notes or imaging reports.
- Questions about recommended follow-up intervals and surveillance plan.
Safety & second opinions
Melanoma management can be complex. If your case involves node-positive disease or advanced melanoma, consider a second opinion at a multidisciplinary cancer centre. Modern treatments (immunotherapy, targeted therapy) carry benefits and side effects — a specialist team helps balance risks and expected outcomes.
How Sunshine Skin & Hair Clinic (example local option) can help
If you are searching specifically for melanoma treatment in Delhi or “melanoma treatment near me,” Sunshine Skin & Hair Clinic evaluates suspicious lesions, performs biopsy/excision when appropriate, and coordinates with surgical and oncology teams for staging and advanced care. For local appointments in South Delhi (Safdarjung Enclave) or West Delhi (Bali Nagar), contact a trusted skin specialist to discuss next steps and referrals.
Short disclaimer
This article summarizes current standard approaches to melanoma care. It is not medical advice. For personal recommendations, consult a qualified dermatologist or oncologist promptly.