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Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD answers: What should I ask about nodular BCC on my ala?

I have a nodular basal cell carcinoma (BCC) on my nasal ala. It is 5mm across and primarily flat. I will be having Mohs surgery in a couple weeks to remove it. I am a 46-year-old woman, and this is my third BCC The last one was diagnosed 7 years ago. I've had one on my back and one on my shoulder. I am concerned about reconstruction and would like to know what questions you might recommend that I ask my surgeon about it. Thanks!


Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD
7 months ago
By Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD - Virginia Beach Dermatologist

Mohs surgery is the most effective means of removilng a basal cell, especially in potentially tricky spots such as where yours has planted itself.

     I would leave it up to your Mohs surgeon. If it turns out that if your basal cell is not that extensive, he or she should be able to perform the repair quite easily. Otherwise and the talents of a plastic surgeon are required, then your Mohs surgeon would know which plastic surgeon would have the best expertise in that area.

  One other piece of advice. Do not be alarmed who this looks immediately afterwards, or even weeks afterwards. I have seen numerous cases where the cosmetic result looked terrible for weeks but eventually the patient had a supurb cosmetic result.

  Good luck.

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