Skin Cancer Specialist Auckland
“Cancer is a word, not a sentence.” John Diamond
Skin Cancer Introduction
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and New Zealand has the highest skin cancer rate in the world. Research suggests that two in three New Zealanders will develop a non-melanoma skin cancer during their lifetime.
If you think you might have a skin cancer, it can be a concerning time, and you may be wondering what the options are. The earlier a skin cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance of it being treated successfully. Left untreated, the skin cancer will continue to grow, and in some cases, it can cause significant destruction to vital structures or even be life-threatening.
Patients who have received an organ transplant have a higher risk for developing skin cancers, up to 250-fold, compared with non-transplant patients. In particular, transplant recipients have a significantly increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinomas. SCC is more likely to spread in organ transplant recipients and may lead to the death of the patient.
Dr Mackenzie undertook her PhD studies at the University of Otago focusing on skin cancers in kidney transplant patients. She published her numerous papers and her work allowed her to make a significant improvement to management of skin cancers in kidney transplant patients.
Dr Mackenzie can see patients with more complex skin cancers that need reconstruction and are on the face. She uses a range of techniques, such as local flaps or grafts. The aim is to excise the cancer with an appropriate margin and achieve the best possible functional and aesthetic outcome.
Malignant Melanoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Cyst Removal
LIPOMA REMOVAL
Skin Tag Removal
SCAR REVISION
Plastic Surgeon & Skin Cancer Specialist
Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie
If you are looking for a plastic surgeon skin cancer specialist in Auckland, Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie provides expert surgical treatment and reconstruction for patients across the greater Auckland region.
Based in Auckland, Dr Mackenzie combines advanced plastic and reconstructive surgical training with specialist expertise in skin cancer management. She treats basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, ensuring complete cancer removal while carefully restoring both function and appearance.
Skin Cancer Treatment in Auckland
New Zealand has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, and Auckland’s high UV exposure places residents at particular risk. Research shows that two in three New Zealanders will develop a non-melanoma skin cancer during their lifetime.
Early diagnosis is critical. When detected early, skin cancers can be treated effectively. Left untreated, they continue to grow and may damage surrounding tissue, nerves and important facial structures. In more serious cases, some skin cancers can become life-threatening.
Dr Mackenzie provides thorough assessment and surgical treatment for patients throughout Auckland, including those referred by GPs, dermatologists and skin clinics.
Specialist Care for High-Risk Patients
Certain patients are at significantly higher risk of developing aggressive skin cancers. Organ transplant recipients, for example, have up to a 250-fold increased risk compared with the general population. Squamous cell carcinoma in transplant patients is more likely to spread and can be life-threatening.
Dr Mackenzie completed her PhD at the University of Otago focusing on skin cancers in kidney transplant patients. Her research has been widely published and has contributed to improvements in the management of high-risk skin cancer patients in New Zealand. This advanced academic background provides reassurance for patients requiring complex or specialised care in Auckland.
Facial Skin Cancer Reconstruction in Auckland
Skin cancers on the face require precision and experience. Dr Mackenzie treats complex skin cancers that require reconstruction, particularly those involving the nose, eyelids, lips, ears and scalp.
As a plastic surgeon and skin cancer specialist in Auckland, she uses advanced reconstructive techniques including:
• Local flap reconstruction
• Skin grafts
• Layered closure techniques
• Scar-minimising surgical planning
The goal is always to excise the cancer with appropriate margins while achieving the best possible functional and aesthetic outcome.
Why Choose Dr Mackenzie in Auckland?
• Specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon
• Dedicated skin cancer expertise
• PhD research in transplant-related skin cancers
• Experience managing complex facial cancers
• Focus on both cancer control and cosmetic outcome
Patients across Auckland choose Dr Mackenzie for her careful surgical technique, personalised consultations and commitment to delivering safe, precise and natural-looking results.