I have a pre-cancer area on tip of nose. What would be the best way to remove this area without deforming nose?

Question

I had a basal cell cancer on side of nose removed by MOHs and plastic surgery to remedy hole.

Alim R. Devani, MD, FRCPC · Answer

The best treatment for actinic keratosis would be liquid nitrogen, aldara, zyclara, efudex or photodynamic therapy. Mohs is not required and the products should not deform your nose. See your dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis first before deciding on your treatment. Good luck!

E. Eugene Bain III, MD · Answer

For pre-cancerous lesions (actinic keratoses), Mohs surgery is not required and would not be appropriate.  This would be best treated with liquid nitrogen or even one of several topical prescription medication, of which there are several options. I would see your dermatologist or Mohs surgeon for this.  Mohs micrographic surgery is still the preferred treatment for the removal of skin cancers (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma most commonly).  When done by a qualified provider (member of the American College of Mohs Surgery, ACMS), Mohs offers the highest cure rate possible among skin cancer treatments.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

The best way to treat precancerous lesions is to freeze the lesion with liquid nitrogen which is less likely to leave a blemish.

I have a pre-cancer area on tip of nose. What would be the best way to remove this area without deforming nose?

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I have a pre-cancer area on tip of nose. What would be the best way to remove this area without deforming nose?

Answers (3)

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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.