MySkinCancerTeam

When radiation is used as an adjunct (add-on) treatment after surgery for skin cancer, the schedule typically follows a standard pattern of once-daily sessions, Monday through Friday.

The total number of sessions can vary quite a bit depending on a few key factors:

- Tumor type (BCC vs. SCC)
- Tumor size
- Location on the Show Full Answer

When radiation is used as an adjunct (add-on) treatment after surgery for skin cancer, the schedule typically follows a standard pattern of once-daily sessions, Monday through Friday.

The total number of sessions can vary quite a bit depending on a few key factors:

- Tumor type (BCC vs. SCC)
- Tumor size
- Location on the body
- Overall health and age

Most courses run anywhere from 1 to 6 weeks, which could mean roughly 5 to 30 sessions in total. Some older or frail patients may be treated less frequently, and in some cases only a single session is needed. Because SCC is more likely to spread than BCC, adjunct radiation tends to be used more often after SCC surgery — particularly when cancer has spread along a nerve, margins weren't fully clear, or the tumor was larger and more aggressive.

The radiation oncologist will map out the exact plan before treatment begins, so the number of sessions will be tailored specifically to the situation. It's always worth asking the care team for a clear breakdown of what to expect.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Radiation Therapy for Skin Cancer: What To Expect and When It’s Used