New Zealand’s most common skin cancer — expertly managed by Dermatologists at SkinCentre Tauranga.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer in New Zealand. While it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause significant local damage if left untreated — especially on the face, scalp, ears, or nose.
At SkinCentre, 171 Cameron Road, Tauranga, our Dermatologists are experts in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of BCC. We offer a full range of treatments — from straightforward excisions to Mohs micrographic surgery for high-risk or cosmetically sensitive areas.
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What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma arises from the basal cells in the lower layer of the epidermis (outer skin). It usually appears as a pearly bump, non-healing sore, or scaly patch. BCCs grow slowly, but over time they can erode local tissue and become disfiguring if not properly treated.
New Zealand’s high UV levels mean that BCC is especially common in areas of chronic sun exposure, such as:
- Nose
- Cheeks
- Forehead
- Scalp
- Neck
- Shoulders and back
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What Does BCC Look Like?
There are several types of BCC, including:
Nodular BCC: Shiny, skin-coloured or pink bump that may ulcerate or bleed
Superficial BCC: Red, scaly patch — often mistaken for eczema or psoriasis
Morpheic or infiltrative BCC: Flat, firm, scar-like lesion with poorly defined edges (more aggressive)
Any spot that doesn’t heal, bleeds repeatedly, or changes over time should be assessed by a Dermatologist.
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How We Diagnose BCC
At SkinCentre, diagnosis begins with a full skin examination by a Dermatologist. We use dermoscopy — a specialised skin microscope — to assess all lesions.
If a lesion is suspicious for BCC, we may:
- Perform a biopsy (a small skin sample taken under local anaesthetic)
- Recommend complete surgical excision without biopsy if clinical features are clearly consistent
- Discuss Mohs surgery if the lesion is high-risk or in a cosmetically sensitive area
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BCC Treatment Options at SkinCentre
1. Standard Surgical Excision
A common and effective method for low- to moderate-risk BCCs. The lesion is removed along with a margin of healthy skin. The wound is then closed with stitches or reconstructive techniques.
2. Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Recommended for BCCs on the face, ears, nose, scalp, and other high-risk sites. This precise technique allows our Mohs Surgeon to remove all cancer cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. It offers the highest cure rate and the best cosmetic outcomes.
3. Curettage and Cautery
Sometimes used for small, superficial BCCs on the trunk or limbs. The lesion is scraped out and the base is cauterised.
4. Topical Treatments
In select cases (e.g. superficial BCCs), topical creams like imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil may be used. These are generally reserved for very early-stage BCCs and are not suitable for deeper or more aggressive types.
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Why Choose SkinCentre?
🧑⚕️ Specialist Dermatologists with advanced training in skin cancer diagnosis and surgery
🔬 Mohs Micrographic Surgery performed by fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeons
🏥 Accredited day-stay surgical facility
👃 Expert reconstruction for cosmetically sensitive areas
⏱ Prompt access to consultations and treatment
We’ve managed thousands of cases of BCC and are trusted by General Practitioners and patients throughout the Bay of Plenty and beyond.
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What Happens After Treatment?
We’ll provide you with detailed wound care instructions and arrange appropriate follow-up. Some patients require regular skin checks due to an increased risk of developing new skin cancers.
If you’ve had one BCC, it’s common to develop more – which is why ongoing monitoring is an important part of long-term care.
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Book a Specialist Skin Check
Think you might have a BCC? Had one in the past and want to stay on top of your skin health?
Book a skin check directly with one of our Dermatologists:
📍 SkinCentre, 171 Cameron Road, Tauranga
📞 07 578 5788
💻 Book online
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Related Posts:
What Is Mohs Surgery and When Do You Need It?
Skin Checks in Tauranga: Why Regular Skin Exams Could Save Your Life
Treating Actinic Keratoses Before They Turn Into Cancer