Horrors of Misdiagnosis

In around 2010/2011 I noticed a pimple on my chin. I proceeded to squeeze the tiny little mite (which only produced a minute wet spot) and left it at that. I did notice that it was a persistent little horror but thought nothing of it at the time as we were in the process of moving houses and 6 months after the move we changed countries. To make a long story short we were in Italy and the offensive spot grew wider to the size of a small pea in diameter.

An unsure diagnosis and a pandemic

I proceeded to see my local doctor who took one look and said "Herpes Zastor" and prescribed cream. Had a small effect so I proceeded to consult a second medical professional who confirmed the previous diagnosis and prompted the same therapy. We then moved from Lombardy to Tuscany and I went and saw the medical practitioner there. The same result with him and by now the offensive spot was almost 1cm in diameter. Visible to any medical professional I encountered including the ER docs that I saw on a regular basis for other medical reasons (EU style - complicated) and not one commented on this now disturbing sight on my chin. COVID hit the world and seeing doctors was a nightmare but whoever I saw in the profession never once mentioned BCC but insisted on herpes.

It was actually basal cell carcinoma

Between lockdowns, we moved to Ireland, and finally in 2021 (almost 11 years later) I was admitted to a hospital for tests for another unrelated reason and the resident doc took one look at my face and mentioned the words "basal cell carcinoma". Immediately she referred me to a dermatologist. Again here, long story short, they wanted to cut it out and their words were "Not to worry you will have a slight shift in your face, luckily its local so it should be fine".

Now I am sure many other ladies would react in the same way and ask 1000 questions. My first was alternative therapy. I was too young for chemo or radiation of any sort and BCC was too small (1.5cm x 2cm diameter). So I asked about creams and was bluntly told they do not work. My only choice was surgery which they would do locally. I was mortified. Not only do I suffer from vasovagal syncope but I would have to live with a distorted face for the next 40 years if I braved surgery.

Seeking treatment for basal cell carcinoma

So my question is what should I do? Find the alternatives or live with the consequences of surgery for the rest of my life? (Bear in mind my work deals with meeting people)

I have no one else to discuss this with and I am hoping that based on your experience I can make the correct informed decision. Thank you for your patience and understanding and for any information you could give.