Newly diagnosed
Two weeks ago, I went to the dermatologist for a consult. I have had a mole on the inner back of my thigh that was questionable. Upon her seeing the mole in question, I knew I was in trouble. The look on her face was not one for poker. Anywho, she decided to remove it. I guess this was a first for her to do an ellipse mole removal. The nurse tells me that she never does same-day removals, ever. She proceeds and removes the mole down to the fat.
I went for a follow-up suture removal and pathology report. Dr. LePage had told me initially it was a melanoma but needed pathology to examine it.
Pathology came back that it had grown into the skin by half a millimeter (0.53mm). I now need to see a plastic surgeon to remove more skin. The scar is already 4-5 inches long.
What have your experiences been in this situation? I still have to wait seven days until I see a plastic surgeon. I have had so much bad medical news lately, that tonight I feel overwhelmed. Thanks in advance for your replies.
...I am so sorry you are dealing with this new diagnosis. I know how overwhelming a melanoma diagnosis can feel.
My first skin cancer diagnosis was melanoma. My family doctor's reaction was much the same as your dermatologist's. He took it off and sent it for a biopsy. In just a few days he had already set me up with a dermatologist for an excision--even before he called me with the news.
I only required one excision, but I know there are many patients out there who have undergone multiple surgeries to completely remove the melanoma. I can say that it's good to hear that a plastic surgeon will be doing your procedure. I hear good things about recovery when a plastic surgeon heads up the process.
I know other members will be able to chime in and give you more words of wisdom. In the meantime, I am going to share a few articles you might find useful.
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/preparing-for-skin-cancer-surgery
https://skincancer.net/video/preparing-surgery
Wishing you all the best--please keep us posted on your healing. We are sending you lots of hugs!
April, SkinCancer.net, ModeratorThank you April! Tomorrow is the big day I see the plastic surgeon. I don't know if I only find out the specifics of the procedure or if he is doing it in his office. Apparently he has a little operating theater for minor surgeries in the back.
My mind is in a total fog tonight. Will keep the community updated....We are definitely sending you positive vibes! Ask your doctor any questions you think of--there is no silly question when it comes to your health! Hugs to you! April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator
First of all, I am sorry that you are going through this. It's tough, I know. It happened to me back in 1988. I had so much skin removed that they couldn't close it. But, the good news is that they have made a lot of advances in treatment for melanomas in the past ten years. I know that it can be scary and I know that waiting is the hardest part. We are here for you. We are in your corner. We have walked in your shoes. Please keep us updated on how you are doing. Scott skincancer.net moderator
