I Think I Have Basal Cell Carcinoma on my Chin?

Question

I've had a crusting, never-healing sore on my chin, on the fleshy pad bit, just under my lip and slightly to the left, for over eleven years. Don't ask me why I never got it seen to, I'm so filled with regret now that I suspect it might be bcc. As its been going on for so long, I'm now terrified any surgery would be horribly disfiguring. Would it potentially take my lip away? Or even bone?

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Basal cell carcinomas are typically very slow growing cancers, and may not be noticed by a health care provider or the patient for months or sometimes several years.  Every case decision must be made on a patient by patient basis.  I would recommend having your lesion examined as soon as possible.  Often times, reconstruction options are available that with good aftercare may leave minimal scarring, depending on the size of the tumor. I hope this helps.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Start out by obtaining a biopsy by a board certified skin cancer expert. After the diagnosis is made, then the next step of planning surgery and reconstruction is performed. Raffy Karamanoukian, Los Angeles

Joseph R. Payne, MD · Answer

It’s of upmost important to have the affected area examined immediately by a board certified dermatologist as early treatment is the best way to not only avoid cosmetic issues, but also ensure the best outcome and reduce the risk of cancer metastasis. During an examination the dermatologist will be able to biopsy the area to determine if your sore is in fact cancerous. If it is indeed BCC it’s important to find a skilled Mohs surgeon who can provide you with effective and safe cancer removal.

Nobuyoshi Kageyama, MD · Answer

Lindsay. Even if it's been there for 11 years, sometimes these BCC don't grow as rapidly. Also the chin is an area that is not as difficult to reconstruct compared to other sites. Go in with a positive attitude. It might not be as bad as you think. I've had tons of patients who come in thinking they were gonna lose and ear or nose just to have a pretty minor surgery.

Steven Swengel, MD · Answer

Pick up the phone and make an appointment to see a board certified dermatologist, preferably someone who is also a member of the Mohs College. The first step is to determine what the growth is so that the appropriate treatment and cure is selected. If this is a neglected BCC on your chin, Mohs will probably be the treatment of choice. Go to the MohsCollege.org to find a fellow in the Mohs College to do your surgery. Make that appointment!

I Think I Have Basal Cell Carcinoma on my Chin?

Answers (8)