Signs to look out for amid Gordon Ramsay's health warning after undergoing cancer surgery

Gordon Ramsay recently issued a warning to his fans after revealing that he had basal cell carcinoma.

Yesterday (August 30), the celebrity chef took to Instagram to share snaps of his post-surgery scars after being diagnosed with skin cancer.

In one snap Ramsay had a dressing covering his wound under his left ear, and a second photo showed his stitches from where he had the cancer removed.

"Grateful and so appreciative for the incredible team at The Skin Associates and their fast reactive work on removing this Basal Cell Carcinoma thank you," the 58-year-old wrote next to the photos.

He went on to warn his 19,000,000 followers: "Please don’t forget your sunscreen this weekend."

Ramsay further assured his fans that he hadn't undergone a facelift and joked that he'd 'need a refund' if he had.

What is basal cell carcinoma?

Gordon Ramsay shared a photo of the site where he had the cancer removed (gordongram/Instagram)

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in the basal cells. These cells are 'a type of cell within the skin that produces new skin cells as old ones die off', explains Mayo Clinic.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, basal cell carcinoma the most common type of skin cancer and around 3.65 million cases are diagnosed each year in the US.

Warning signs you shouldn't ignore

You're likely to develop basal cell carcinoma on parts of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, but it can occur anywhere on the body.

Per the Skin Cancer Foundation, things you should look out for are: An open sore that doesn't heal, a reddish patch or irritated area of skin, a shiny bump or nodule that is pearly or clear, pink, red or white, a small pink growth, and/or a scar-like area.

Should you have two or more of these signs, it's likely to be a basal cell carcinoma tumor.

How can you protect yourself?

People are most likely to develop basal cell carcinoma on bits of skin often exposed to the sun (Getty Stock)

Limiting your exposure to ultraviolet rays is key in preventing a basal cell carcinoma tumor from developing.

The American Cancer Society says people should cover up in the sun, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect themselves in the sun.

It's also advised that people avoid using tanning beds and sun lamps, as they can cause long-term skin damage.

In regard to children who often spend a lot of time in the sun, the organization advises: "Parents and other caregivers should protect children from excess sun exposure by using the steps above. Children also need to be taught about the dangers of too much sun exposure as they become more independent."

If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.