Can Mohs Surgery Wait a Month After Diagnosis?

Question

If my recent biopsy of a very tiny, pimple-like thing on my cheek is basil cell cancer, can I wait 4-5 weeks after the diagnosis for Mohs surgery? I have only had this "pimple" for 1 month. I am getting married in 4-5 weeks and don't want to have this show.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Basal cell carcinomas are often very slow to grow.  Waiting four or five weeks is not uncommon for some patients to just get an appointment for consultation in some busy practices.  The doubling time for this slow-growing skin cancer allows one to relax if there is a short delay before treatment compared with faster-growing skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinomas or melanomas.  A rare exception would be if there are symptoms of nerve involvement near crucual areas such as the eyelid with shooting pain, new onset of double vision or blurred vision which would suggest you obtain the appropriate consultation prior to delaying the treatment.  The doctor might be able to give someone reassurance that for their case it would not place one's health in jeopardy. In all likelihood you will be able to enjoy your wedding first!

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

In many cases, Mohs surgery for uncomplicated skin cancer can wait 1 month. I would agree with my dermatology colleagues. In many cities, it's not unusual to wait several months between diagnosis and the final appointment for skin cancer excision by a Dermatologic surgeon. Enjoy your wedding but make sure you followup as soon as possible after the celebration with your dermatologist.Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Brian E. Dubow, MD · Answer

It should be fine to wait 4-5 weeks before having the BCC removed.  Enjoy your wedding but make your appointment as soon as possible after you return.  You can even book now to ensure you are on the schedule.

Steven Hacker, MD · Answer

Typically waiting 4-5 weeks will not result in any significant difference in your basal cell carcinoma treatment plan. However I would suggest you confirm this with your dermatologist.

Peter J. Malouf, DO · Answer

Since BCC is a slow growing non lifethreatening skin cancer, I can safely reccomend waiting up to two months before having the procedure.

Can Mohs Surgery Wait a Month After Diagnosis?

Answers (10)

Answer: Basal cell carcinoma and Mohs surgery

Answer: Basal cell carcinoma and Mohs surgery

Answer: Waiting a month to treat bcc

Answer: Waiting a month to treat bcc

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Can Mohs Surgery Wait a Month After Diagnosis?

Answers (10)

Answer: Basal cell carcinoma and Mohs surgery

Answer: Basal cell carcinoma and Mohs surgery

Answer: Waiting a month to treat bcc

Answer: Waiting a month to treat bcc

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mohs Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.