MOS surgery in 07/2018. Removal of basal cell carcinoma from skin next to nose, near nose/cheek crease. Left with hole. Advice?

Question

Mid July 2018 I had MOS Surgery to remove basal cell carcinoma fron the skin next to my nose. The surgeon said all the cancer was removed & stitched the site nicely. It's been 4.5 months & the surgery site has a "pin dot" sized hole. It has a white, round "bead" in it. If it were a zit, I'd think it's the white core, but it's not a zit. It's a tiny hole. I mainly notice when I'm using my magnifying mirror. The hole seems oily or wet. It doesn't "weep", however. Should I be concerned?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Moh’s surgery on the face often requires surgical repair and reconstruction to reapproximate the skin edges. Flaps or direct closure techniques are used. It is important that you optimize scar healing during this phase in order to reduce longterm scars. For red scars, we use Vbeam laser, followed by fractional laser for scar topography and contour. We recommend Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily for the immediate postoperative period. Fractional laser is safe for scar laser therapy. 
There are treatments for swelling and edema of the scars. If there is residual sutures or edema, we advise you to follow a scar treatment protocol that can minimize the time to recovery. Our office specializes in scar revisions for Moh’s surgery. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

John Louis Ratz, MD · Answer

What you're describing could be a milium(tiny cyst) or suture that did not absorb. Have your Mohs surgeon take a look at it. There is also the possibility that it may be a focus of residual tumor.

MOS surgery in 07/2018. Removal of basal cell carcinoma from skin next to nose, near nose/cheek crease. Left with hole. Advice?

Answers (2)