The nasal cavity includes the nostrils and the area behind the nose. Surgery in this area is much specialised and only a specialist surgeon can do it. An experienced cancer doctor Singapore will try to remove the cancer and some surrounding tissue but will also try to change your appearance as little as possible.
The amount of surgery you need depends on the position of the cancer in the nasal cavity. The type of surgery will also depend on the stage of your nose cancer. Your doctor might not be in a position to tell the cancer stage until a surgery is done. Here are different types of surgeries for this cancer.
Endoscopic Surgery
This type of surgery is not suitable for everyone. It will depend very much on the type and position of the tumour you have and what other options are available. Endoscopic surgery is done if you have any tumour which your surgeon can reach and completely remove.
Another case for this surgery to take place is when there is a larger tumour. But it is possible to remove it without damage to surrounding structures and you can have radiotherapy afterwards to reduce chances of cancer growing again.
Endoscopic surgery involves putting a thin, rigid tube into the nose. Keep in mind there are no cuts to the face. This type of surgery allows removal of the cancer with a border of normal tissue.
Removal of Part or All of Your Nose
For cancers on the side of the nose affecting the skin, your cancer doctor Singapore can usually remove the affected part. Doctors call this operation a partial rhinectomy. Your surgeon may need to remove all of your nose if the cancer has spread widely into your nose tissue. This operation is called rhinectomy. In both cases, your surgeon will need to rebuild your nose.
They will use tissue taken from your face or another part of your body. This may need further operations. A prosthetic technician may make a false nose for you. Remember, this type of surgery will change your appearance. It can be challenging at first but there are people who can help you cope.
When tests are done, your cancer doctor Singapore is likely to recommend what kind of treatment or surgery is best for you. Make sure you rely on a specialist who will guide you through the right surgery.