Basal cell carcinoma on left side of nose
I thought I had a pimple on my nose, however, it did not go away after two months. I went to my dermatologist and had a biopsy. Sure enough, it was nodular basal cell carcinoma. I scheduled Mohs surgery and am lucky to say that the cancer was removed in one attempt. I waited about one week and had reconstructive surgery to cover up the hole which was the size of a dime. I’ll be honest, the pain from the needles was rough. That night I could not sleep and felt horrible. The sensation of my pulled skin via a flap procedure was painful. However, the pain subsided after two days. I am getting my stitches removed in a few days. I hope to never go through this again.
Thank you for sharing your experience with our community. I am hopeful that when your stitches are removed that you will be happy with the long term results. I hope that you have never have to go through this again. What are a couple of things you would tell someone about to go through MOHS surgery for the first time? Scott skincancer.net moderator
Hi Scott, here are my suggestions as a(pleased) one-timer about this important question. I had two recommendations from my dermatologist, both of whom met the criteria below, and I chose by proximity and other first-hand recommendations.
1. Surgeon qualifications and experience. If you have a choice, go to a MOHS surgeon who is "a board-certified dermatologist who is fellowship-trained in Mohs micrographic surgery. A list of fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons can be found by visiting the American College of Mohs Surgery website." Also, one who has long experience and has done a huge number of MOHS procedures. (Although mine works with a plastic surgeon when necessary, he generally does his own flaps, etc. himself).
2, if you can't manage to meet with the surgeon pre-surgery, be sure you can have a conversation with his/her PA or another knowledgeable staff person to get all your questions answered.
3. Arm yourself with patience, reading material, or other pastimes- tablet, knitting, etc.), and try to avoid expectations about the number of "passes".Also snacks, water, maybe light lunch -all of which the office will tell you.
3. Bring someone with you if allowed, even to come in and out.Thank you for your reply. I like everything that you wrote and especially appreciate the suggestion to bring someone with you. Scott skincancer.net moderator
Hello, I also had a 3-week pimple that was a BCC. I posted about it yesterday under "What was your first sign...", and have just seen your message. I am so glad to hear you needed only one pass and agree, like many here, that the sting of the needles on the sensitive nose is the worst part of the procedure. Fortunately, your post-flap pain has gone ( I had virtually none)and stitches out soon will be a relief. After the wound is fully healed, hopefully, you will be able to take an active role in improving your scar-whatever your Dr. recommends (silicone products, massage, for e.g.). Especially, best wishes for NEVER AGAIN.
Thank you for supporting our community with your encouraging comments. Scott skincancer.net moderator
