Nodular BCC and Mohs Surgery

Bryan K. Chen, 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!


Bryan K. Chen, MD
7 months ago

One way to help gauge whether your Mohs surgeon does good reconstructive work is to ask for before and after photographs.  You can ask your surgeon how long he or she has been performing Mohs surgery reconstruction. 

The reconstructive options depend on the size of your final surgical defect and whether or not the underlying cartilage is involved.  Your surgeon may or may not perform all of the reconstruction procedures him/herself.  More frequently, however, for more complicated repairs, your surgeon may coordinate with a facial plastic surgeon.  The question really becomes, do you trust your surgeon to make decision based on your best interest.  I would express all of your concerns to your surgeon who would almost certainly want to know.

Good luck.

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