Surgery for vulval cancer
Surgery is the main treatment for vulval cancer. The type of surgery you need depends on where the cancer is in your vulva. Read about what happens before surgery and how you might feel after your operation.
This section is about surgery for vulval cancer. We have separate information about surgery for vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN).
Types of surgery for vulval cancer
Surgery is the main treatment for vulval cancer. The type of surgery you need depends on how big the cancer is and how much of your vulva is affected.
Before your vulval cancer surgery
Before your operation you have some tests and meet members of your treatment team.
On the day of your vulval cancer surgery
You have a general anaesthetic so you can't feel anything during the operation. This sends you into a deep sleep.
After vulval cancer surgery
Your recovery will depend on the type of surgery you have. You may need to spend a few days in the hospital and then give yourself time to recover once you are home.
Problems after vulval cancer surgery
There is a risk of problems or complications after vulval surgery. Many problems are minor, but some are more serious.
