How long can I safely wait between diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma and Mohs surgery?

Question

I have recently been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma and recommended to Mohs surgery. I am having delays getting an appointment with a Mohs surgeon. I am supposed to leave for Europe in February for 3 months. What is the latest I canreasonably have the surgery in order to safely travel? If I can't get a timely appointment, would it be safe to leave it til I return May 1? Thanks so much?

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

I would recommend you get it taken care of as soon as possible even if you have to cancel your trip .  Moh's and the Moh's repair is done fairly immediately after diagnosis, I would recommend you have it done no more than a month from diagnosis.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

There is no great answer to this question. Ideally, following diagnosis, you would be referred to a Mohs surgeon and undergo surgery ASAP. This might take several weeks to a month in many cases but you're talking about a potential 6 month delay in treatment. This is definitely not ideal under any circumstances. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Most of the time, Mohs is done to slow growing cancers like BCCs. In general, I tell people to not wait to have the procedure done because it's CANCER and should be removed asap. BCCs are usually slow-growing, but that does mean it will still be growing the longer you wait. Why wait? Get it done asap! "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

How long can I safely wait between diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma and Mohs surgery?

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