How quickly should basal cell carcinoma be removed?

Thanks for the question, I do not delay treatment for any type of skin cancer in any way, unless there is a reason I would always move forward as soon as possible 

The goal in my practice is to remove BCC's in 4 weeks but I can wait up to 2-3 months in some cases if the patient is away out of town. SCC's are removed within 2-4 weeks and melanoma are excised within 1 week. BCC's are slow to move and most of my patients have had them from 2 months to 5 years so waiting 1-3 months should be ok. It also depends on the location and if its near a vital structure like the eye or lips, I would remove it quickly. I have seen cases of ocular metastasis of BCC in my practice so sooner the better overall.  

Any skin cancers are best removed sooner rather than later. I believe that you should go ahead with the surgical procedures to be sure that there is zero chance of metastasizing. Thank you for your question!Kate Ross, MD