I had a small (3mm) raised pearly colored bump on my forehead for the past few months. My dermatologist removed it and sent if for a biopsy. It came back as a small basal cell carcinoma. When I spoke to my dermatologist's assistant, she said that I need to come back into the office to discuss Mohs surgery. I'm in a wedding in June and I have my 20 year college reunion in August. Can I wait until Spetember to have the Mohs surgery? I'd rather not have a mark on my face for either of these.
May 17, 2010
Answer: Mohs surgery is best performed within 6 weeks of cancer diagnosis
I usually recommend that my patients have their Mohs surgery within 6 weeks of the diagnosis of basal cell cancer, as the tumor will never be smaller than it currently is. Basal cell cancers are slow growing, however, and some can wait longer, depending on the size. I would speak with your surgeon right away to get a feel for the timing. Depending on when your event in June is, it is possible that your scar could be easily camouflaged by that time with a little makeup. That depends on the size of the tumor and how you typically heal, though.
Earlier is always better, but longer can be permissible in certain situations.
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May 17, 2010
Answer: Mohs surgery is best performed within 6 weeks of cancer diagnosis
I usually recommend that my patients have their Mohs surgery within 6 weeks of the diagnosis of basal cell cancer, as the tumor will never be smaller than it currently is. Basal cell cancers are slow growing, however, and some can wait longer, depending on the size. I would speak with your surgeon right away to get a feel for the timing. Depending on when your event in June is, it is possible that your scar could be easily camouflaged by that time with a little makeup. That depends on the size of the tumor and how you typically heal, though.
Earlier is always better, but longer can be permissible in certain situations.
Helpful
May 13, 2010
Answer: Basal cell cancer
Lucky for you basal cell cancers are typically slow growing. However, the size of the tumor is best evaluated by your dermatologist as they often look smaller on the surface than they are. I would also suggest discussing the practicality and timing of treatment with your dermatologist. Your situation is quite common and as long as you are informed of the consequences of deferring treatment such as enlarging size of the removal and the attendant consequences, then you can make an informed decision.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
May 13, 2010
Answer: Basal cell cancer
Lucky for you basal cell cancers are typically slow growing. However, the size of the tumor is best evaluated by your dermatologist as they often look smaller on the surface than they are. I would also suggest discussing the practicality and timing of treatment with your dermatologist. Your situation is quite common and as long as you are informed of the consequences of deferring treatment such as enlarging size of the removal and the attendant consequences, then you can make an informed decision.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful