Has anyone had Mohs surgery after excisions failed?
The margins came back positive for BCC both times, but pathology says it’s superficial. Have a consult with a Mohs Specialist next week. To discuss a topical ointment is a possibility instead of Mohs. Has anyone ever had to have Mohs surgery after having failed excisions?
I'm so sorry you're dealing with multiple surgeries! I've had an excision for melanoma and three Mohs for basal but never Mohs following a failed excision. Mohs is invasive and makes for a pretty long visit as they examine margins and bring you back into surgery to remove more tissue. I've been pleased with the results of my Mohs surgeries and scarring has been minimal considering the awkward spots they have been on my neck.
If I had to guess, it sounds like you may be offered a topical chemotherapy like Efudex. There are others like Carac cream and Blue light treatments. All of these can remove precancerous spots from the skin on a larger scale than individual surgeries or by freezing. I've used Efudex for about five years now and, though the treatment isn't easy, it's helped tremendously. Keep us posted on your visit! Wishing you the best! April, SkinCancer.net, ModeratorThank you for the info and support. The Mohs surgeon recommended using Imiquimod 5% topical cream. She said the remainder of the cancer cells are patchy and only on the surface of the skin so it would be more effective than the Mohs surgery at this point.
Here's an article on Efudex should you be prescribed this treatment. Ask any questions you like! We are here for you!
