Can my basal cell resurface 90 days after mohs surgery?

Question

I have a suspicious area beside my scar that I had to have a biopsy done today. I just had mohs,surgery in December for the second time in the same area of my face.

John Louis Ratz, MD · Answer

While virtually every Mohs Surgeon quotes a 99% cure rate for basal cell carcinoma, that figure comes from several large studies done in the past. I don't believe every doctor doing Mohs Surgery is capable of this. On the other hand, it would not be unusual to have two basal cell carcinomas develop very close to each other. The bottom line is that if you have another tumor on or near the site of Mohs Surgery, it still needs to be treated, and Mohs Surgery remains the best treatment option.

Mark L. Mazow, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. As you are aware, sun damage to skin is the primary cause of most basal cell carcinomas. The skin is one big organ and has had the same amount of sun exposure. While it is not typical for a basal cell to recur at the margin so soon aft Mohs excision, it is known to happen. This may not be a recurrence if the biopsy does indeed show that it is basal cell. It may well be a new lesion. No matter what this biopsy shows you do need to take care to protect your skin from excess sunlight and wear 30spf or higher sun block. Consult your dermatologist about your specific case.

Can my basal cell resurface 90 days after mohs surgery?

Answers (2)

More Mohs Surgery Questions

Lump after Mohs surgery, will it flatten? (Photo)

MOHS surgery: incision reopened, will it ever close?

I have a squamous on shin bone. What recovery can I expect? I am to have Mohs done.

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS