Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)—also referred to as squamous cell cancer or epidermoid carcinoma—is a form of skin cancer that originates in the squamous cells located in the middle and outer layers of the skin. Often, it appears as a red, scaly patch or bump in areas frequently exposed to the sun (like the face, ears, neck, or hands). While SCC can be aggressive, it typically isn’t life-threatening if treated early. However, leaving it untreated can allow it to grow larger, spread to other areas of the body, and potentially lead to serious complications.
When it appears on the skin, SCC is often called cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Keep in mind, however, that squamous cells exist in other parts of the body too, so SCC can arise in different regions.
Why Early Detection Matters
Identifying and addressing SCC early is crucial. Prompt removal or treatment greatly reduces the risk of complications and disfigurement. At TMSC, we take a meticulous approach:
We excise the lesion with adequate margins to ensure all cancerous cells are removed.
We then send the specimen for pathology analysis to confirm clear margins and rule out deeper spread.
Early intervention often translates to simpler treatments, faster recoveries, and better overall outcomes.
Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
While SCC can technically develop anywhere on the body’s skin surface, it appears most often on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and backs of hands. That said, it can also show up in other locations, including areas less exposed to sunlight. Key symptoms include:
Firm, red nodules
Flat sores with a scaly crust
New sores or raised areas that develop on old scars or skin sores
Rough or scaly red patches
Open sores that may ooze, crust, or fail to heal properly
Red sores or rough patches inside the mouth
Rough, scaly patches on the lip that may turn into open sores
Wart-like growths
If you notice any new growths or persistent changes in existing moles or spots, it’s best to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
Causes of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
The primary culprit behind SCC is long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. Nevertheless, SCC can also develop in regions not exposed to UV rays, which means there are additional factors to consider. Common risk factors include:
Radiation Therapy: Previous radiation treatments can damage skin cells, increasing cancer risk.
Fair Skin: People with fair complexions who burn easily are more susceptible.
History of Sunburns: Multiple or severe sunburns heighten the risk.
Previous Precancerous Lesions: If you’ve had precancerous growths (like actinic keratoses), you’re at higher risk.
Weakened Immune System: Certain medications or health conditions can lower immunity, making skin cancers more likely.
Genetic Disorders: Conditions such as xeroderma pigmentosum can predispose you to SCC.
SCC arises when DNA mutations within squamous cells disrupt normal cell behavior—causing uncontrolled growth and increased survival of abnormal cells.
What Happens if Squamous Cell Carcinoma is Left Untreated?
Ignoring or postponing treatment for SCC can lead to serious consequences:
Disfigurement: The tumor can expand, potentially causing noticeable cosmetic changes or functional impairment.
Destruction of Nearby Healthy Tissue: As SCC grows, it can invade surrounding tissues, making surgical removal more extensive and complex.
Spread to Lymph Nodes or Other Organs: If the cancer travels (metastasizes), it can become life-threatening.
Fatality: While uncommon, untreated SCC can occasionally be fatal.
Early diagnosis and prompt action are the best defenses against these more severe outcomes.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Removal and Surgery In Toronto and Oakville
At TMSC, we customize each patient’s treatment to their specific needs. Our range of treatments includes:
Surgical Excision
The cancerous lesion is removed along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure no cancer cells remain.
The excised tissue is sent for pathology to confirm clear margins.
Cryotherapy
Freezing the cancer cells with liquid nitrogen can effectively destroy them.
Suitable for superficial or small lesions.
Topical Treatments
Medicated creams (such as 5-fluorouracil or imiquimod) may be used for superficial SCC.
Typically used for small, early-stage lesions.
Radiation Therapy
High-energy rays target and kill cancer cells.
An option for cases where surgery isn’t viable or in addition to surgery for more advanced SCC.
Our board-certified surgeons and medical team work with you to choose the most appropriate and effective treatment approach.
What is the Best Treatment for Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
The “best” treatment hinges on factors like:
Size and location of the cancer
Stage of SCC (how deep or advanced it is)
Overall health and medical history
Patient preferences
Often, surgical excision is considered the gold standard due to its high success rate. Pathology can confirm whether all cancer cells are removed, which significantly lowers the chance of recurrence. However, for some patients, radiation therapy or topical treatments may be more suitable—especially if surgery poses a higher risk or the lesion is superficial.
Seborrheic Keratosis FAQ
Seborrheic Keratosis: Frequently Asked Questions
No, seborrheic keratoses are benign and non-cancerous. However, professional evaluation is important to distinguish them from other potentially serious skin conditions like melanoma.
Reassuring fact: Seborrheic keratoses have absolutely no potential to become cancerous or spread to other parts of the body.
Why professional evaluation is important:
Accurate diagnosis - some skin cancers can mimic seborrheic keratoses
Rule out melanoma - especially for darker or irregularly shaped lesions
Distinguish from other conditions - such as basal cell carcinoma or warts
Peace of mind - confirmation of benign nature
Treatment planning - if removal is desired for cosmetic reasons
Conditions that may appear similar:
Melanoma (especially amelanotic types)
Basal cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma
Solar lentigo (age spots)
Dermatofibroma
When to seek evaluation: If a seborrheic keratosis suddenly changes in appearance, becomes painful, bleeds, or looks different from your other lesions, seek professional assessment promptly.
Since seborrheic keratoses are harmless, there are no specific self-care instructions unless they become irritating. Regularly washing the area with mild soap and covering it with a bandage can help reduce discomfort.
Daily Care Routine:
1
Gentle cleansing - Wash with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap twice daily
2
Pat dry - Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel (avoid rubbing)
3
Moisturize - Apply a gentle, unscented moisturizer to prevent dryness
4
Protect if needed - Cover with loose bandage if clothing causes irritation
Additional self-care measures:
Avoid scratching or picking - this can lead to infection or scarring
Wear loose-fitting clothing - to minimize friction over lesions
Sun protection - use sunscreen to prevent further skin damage
Monitor for changes - keep track of size, color, or texture changes
Keep skin hydrated - well-moisturized skin is less likely to be irritated
Important: If there's any diagnostic uncertainty about whether a lesion is a seborrheic keratosis or something more serious, OHIP will typically cover removal for biopsy and diagnosis.
While seborrheic keratoses are benign, it's important to recognize the distinguishing features that help differentiate them from potentially serious skin cancers:
Typical seborrheic keratosis characteristics:
"Stuck-on" appearance - looks like it could be picked off
Waxy or greasy texture - often with a rough surface
Well-defined borders - clear edges and consistent shape
Uniform color - tan, brown, or black throughout
Symmetrical shape - generally round or oval
Gradual development - slow growth over months to years
Warning signs that suggest skin cancer:
Asymmetry - one half doesn't match the other
Irregular borders - jagged, notched, or blurred edges
Color variation - multiple colors within the same lesion
Large diameter - greater than 6mm (pencil eraser size)
Evolving - changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms
Bleeding or ulceration - without obvious trauma
Rapid growth - noticeable changes over weeks
When in doubt, get checked: Any skin lesion that doesn't look like your typical seborrheic keratoses or has concerning features should be evaluated by a healthcare professional immediately.
Conditions that can mimic seborrheic keratosis:
Melanoma - especially amelanotic (non-pigmented) types
Atypical moles - dysplastic nevi with irregular features
Professional advantage: Dermatologists and trained clinicians use dermoscopy (dermatoscope) to examine skin lesions with magnification and special lighting, greatly improving diagnostic accuracy.
Red flags requiring immediate evaluation:
Sudden appearance of a dark lesion
Rapid growth or change in an existing lesion
Bleeding, crusting, or ulceration
Irregular or changing borders
Multiple colors within one lesion
Itching, pain, or tenderness
Lesion that looks different from your others
Documentation tip: Take monthly photos of your skin lesions to track any changes over time. This can be invaluable for early detection of problems.
Recovery from seborrheic keratosis removal is typically straightforward and uncomplicated, with most patients healing completely within 1-3 weeks:
Recovery Timeline:
1
Day 1-3: Initial healing begins, keep area clean and dry
2
Day 4-7: Scab formation, avoid picking or scratching
Immediate post-procedure care (first 24-48 hours):
Keep bandage dry - avoid water on the wound
No strenuous activity - avoid heavy lifting or exercise
Pain management - over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
Monitor for bleeding - light spotting is normal
Follow specific instructions - adhered to provided wound care guidelines
Ongoing wound care:
Gentle cleansing - lukewarm water and mild soap after 24 hours
Apply antibiotic ointment - thin layer as directed
Cover with bandage - until healing is well established
Avoid soaking - no swimming, hot tubs, or long baths
Sun protection - crucial for proper healing and color matching
Normal healing signs: Mild redness, slight swelling, and formation of a protective scab are all normal parts of the healing process.
Activity restrictions:
Return to work - usually same day or next day
Exercise - avoid strenuous activity for 3-5 days
Swimming - wait until completely healed (2-3 weeks)
Sun exposure - protect healing area for several months
Expected cosmetic outcome:
Minimal scarring - most people heal with barely visible marks
Color matching - skin tone usually returns to normal
Texture - smooth skin surface in most cases
Size consideration - larger removals may have more noticeable healing
Contact us if you experience: Increasing pain, spreading redness, pus discharge, fever, or any concerns about healing progress.
Scar prevention: Consistent sun protection of the healing area for 6-12 months helps ensure the best cosmetic outcome and prevents permanent color changes.
reminder: Always consult your healthcare provider before using any chemicals or over-the-counter treatments on seborrheic keratoses.
Pro tip: If you have multiple seborrheic keratoses, taking photos can help you monitor them for any changes over time.
Most minor surgeries for seborrheic keratoses do not require extensive follow-ups. After successful removal, you can usually go home immediately. If complications arise, which is rare, you can return to our clinic for a follow-up visit.
Typical follow-up schedule:
Same day - discharge after brief observation period
1-2 weeks - wound check (if indicated)
As needed - only if complications develop
No routine long-term follow-up - unless multiple lesions or cosmetic concerns
Simple recovery: Most patients heal completely within 1-2 weeks with minimal scarring and no ongoing issues.
When follow-up may be recommended:
Large lesion removal - requiring more extensive healing
Location considerations - areas prone to infection or poor healing
Patient-specific factors - diabetes, immunocompromise, or healing concerns
Cosmetic optimization - scar management or touch-up procedures
Signs that warrant a follow-up visit:
Persistent bleeding or oozing beyond 24-48 hours
Signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus, fever)
Unusual pain or discomfort
Delayed healing beyond expected timeframe
Concerns about scarring or appearance
Peace of mind: Our clinic maintains an open-door policy for any post-procedure concerns, ensuring you have support throughout your recovery.
If seborrheic keratoses become irritating, covering them with a bandage can prevent rubbing. Wash the area twice a day with mild soap and apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to soften the skin.
Comfort Management Steps:
1
Identify irritation sources - clothing, jewelry, or activity-related friction
2
Gentle cleansing - mild soap and lukewarm water twice daily
3
Apply protective barrier - thin layer of petroleum jelly or zinc oxide
4
Use protective covering - soft bandage or padded adhesive strip
5
Modify activities - adjust clothing or routines to minimize contact
Additional comfort strategies:
Choose appropriate clothing - loose-fitting, soft fabrics like cotton
Use hypoallergenic products - fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers
Consider location-specific solutions - different approaches for face vs. body lesions
Manage environmental factors - humidity levels and temperature control
Sleep position adjustments - avoid pressure on irritated lesions
Products that may help:
Barrier creams - petroleum jelly, zinc oxide, or dimethicone-based products
Soft bandages - non-adhesive or silicone-based adhesives
Padding materials - foam dressings or moleskin for pressure points
Moisture-wicking fabrics - for areas prone to sweating
Avoid these approaches: Never use any chemicals, acids, or over-the-counter removal products without consulting your surgeon first.
When comfort measures aren't enough: If seborrheic keratoses continue to cause significant discomfort despite these measures, professional removal may be the best solution for your quality of life.
Seborrheic keratoses are extremely common age-related skin growths that develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors:
Primary causes and risk factors:
Age - most common after age 40, increasing with age
Genetics - strong family history component
Sun exposure - cumulative UV damage over time
Hormonal changes - pregnancy can trigger development
Friction - areas subject to repeated rubbing
Common occurrence: By age 60, approximately 90% of people have at least one seborrheic keratosis. They're sometimes called "wisdom spots" or "barnacles of aging."
Typical development patterns:
Gradual appearance - usually develop slowly over months to years
Multiple lesions - people often develop several over time
Common locations - chest, back, shoulders, face, and scalp
Variable appearance - can range from flat to raised, light to dark
Factors that may accelerate development:
Prolonged sun exposure without protection
Fair skin that burns easily
History of frequent sunburns
Certain medications that increase photosensitivity
Immunosuppression
Prevention note: While you can't prevent all seborrheic keratoses due to genetic factors, consistent sun protection throughout life may help reduce their number and severity.
Several effective removal methods are available, with the choice depending on the size, location, and number of lesions:
Common removal techniques:
Shave excision - surface removal with a scalpel (most common)
Curettage - scraping away the lesion with a specialized tool
Electrocautery - burning off the lesion with electrical current
Cryotherapy - freezing with liquid nitrogen
Laser removal - precise removal with minimal scarring
Method selection factors:
Size and thickness - larger lesions may require different approaches
Location - facial lesions often require more precise techniques
Number of lesions - multiple lesions may benefit from certain methods
Cosmetic concerns - visible areas require careful technique selection
Curettage - effective removal, slight texture change possible
Electrocautery - good results, may have small white scar
Cryotherapy - effective but may cause temporary pigment changes
Laser removal - precise results, excellent for facial lesions
Recovery expectations:
Healing time - typically 1-3 weeks depending on method
Activity restrictions - minimal, usually just wound care
Pain level - mild discomfort for a few days
Scarring - minimal with proper technique and aftercare
Our approach: We customize the removal method based on your specific lesions and aesthetic goals to achieve the best possible outcome.
When properly removed, seborrheic keratoses rarely recur in the exact same location. However, new lesions commonly develop elsewhere on the body over time:
Recurrence rates: True recurrence at the removal site occurs in less than 5% of cases when complete removal is achieved.
Factors affecting recurrence:
Completeness of removal - partial removal increases recurrence risk
Removal method - some techniques have lower recurrence rates
Lesion characteristics - thick lesions may be more challenging to remove completely
Location - areas subject to friction may have higher recurrence
Individual factors - healing response and skin characteristics
New lesion development:
Ongoing process - new seborrheic keratoses often continue to appear with age
Genetic predisposition - family history influences likelihood
Sun exposure - continued UV damage can trigger new growths
Hormonal factors - certain life stages may accelerate development
Prevention of new lesions:
Sun protection - consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen
Protective clothing - minimize UV exposure to skin
Regular skin checks - early identification of new growths
Gentle skin care - avoid excessive friction or irritation
Long-term outlook: While you may develop new seborrheic keratoses over time, each removal is typically permanent and the procedure can be repeated as needed for cosmetic comfort.
When to consider re-evaluation:
Growth appearing at a previous removal site
Rapid development of multiple new lesions
Changes in existing seborrheic keratoses
New lesions with unusual appearance
OHIP coverage for seborrheic keratosis removal depends on medical necessity rather than cosmetic preferences:
Typically covered situations:
Diagnostic uncertainty - when appearance is suspicious for cancer
Extended health plans - may cover cosmetic removal
Workplace benefits - some plans include dermatological procedures
Health spending accounts - tax-advantaged payment options
Payment plans - clinic financing options
Cost consideration: Even when not covered by OHIP, seborrheic keratosis removal is typically very affordable, especially considering the permanent results.
Important
Why Choose TMSC?
Expert Surgeons Our surgeons are highly trained, with years of experience treating various skin lesions, including SCC. They maintain a keen focus on precision, patient safety, and optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Comprehensive Care From your initial consultation through post-operative follow-ups, our team is committed to guiding you every step of the way.
OHIP Coverage We understand that cost can be a concern. SCC surgery is covered by OHIP, helping ensure you receive the best possible care without added financial strain.
Safe, State-of-the-Art Environment All procedures are performed in our well-equipped clinics in Toronto, Oakville, or Vaughan.
If you suspect you have squamous cell carcinoma or have been recently diagnosed, don’t wait to seek treatment. The sooner you address it, the better your chances for a successful outcome.
Contact TMSC to schedule a consultation at one of our locations:
Our locaitons
Toronto: 2920 Dufferin Street, Suite 202, Toronto ON M6B 3S8
Oakville: 3075 Hospital Gate Unit 109, Oakville, ON L6M 1M
Vaughan: 2701 Rutherford Rd Building C, Vaughan, ON L4K 2N6
Mississauga: 1224 Dundas Street West Unit 101 Mississauga, ON L4C 4G7
