STEP 4: MAPPING THE TUMOUR

Once the first layer has been removed, a 'map' or drawing of the tissue and its orientation in relation to local landmarks (for example, the nose or cheek) is made to serve as a guide to its precise location. The tissue is labelled and colour-coded to correlate with its position on the map.

The tissue sections are processed by a laboratory technician and then examined by Dr Aslam, who thoroughly looks for evidence of remaining cancer cells. It takes approximately 60 minutes to process, stain and examine a tissue section. During this time, your wound will be bandaged and you will return to the waiting area.