Skin Cancer?

[Josette 2]

Any of you had Skin Cancer? I found a spot on my cheek about 3 months ago while applying makeup. I dismissed it for a while (obviously) and a month ago finally decided to go see my dermatologist. I went today and he is pretty sure it's skin cancer. He took a biopsy and said he'd call me in a week. I'm kind of freaked out. What do you guys think? Any advice or info?

[sassacass 0]

Hi there Josette. I'm sorry to hear of this. I don't know what kind of skin cancer yours might be, but mine was basal cell carcinoma. A rather slow growing one, but cancer nonetheless. It was in the fold between the nostril and the cheek. I was about 6 months pregnant at the time of biopsy. I didn't have my surgery until 4 days after delivery. I was referred to a Mohs surgeon, (not sure about the spelling), it was an office procedure, I was numbed locally (that was the worst part for me, that stupid beesting feeling) and then the surgeon took a very thin slice of skin, examining it to make sure the borders of the skin left were indeed not involved. I had 2 stiches, a bandaid, and I was on my way. The wait for the mohs surgeon was long, but the dermatologist said this was the best at preserving healthy tissue while removing the cancer. He might have had to take several layers until he came up with 'clear borders'. I really have no scar whatsoever. Now there are more aggressive skin cancers, so depending on what your biopsy is, that will dictate how it's taken care of. If it is slow growing, ask your derm about the possibility of a mohs surgeon. The reason I was sold on it, was that I knew when I left the office, they got it all. Also, if there had been a need for reconstruction, he would have taken care of it.

When I found out what kind of cancer it was, I was able to learn lots on the internet. Write it down before you leave the office so you don't forget. Will be anxious to hear an update, best of luck, cassie

[Mvpo8961 1]

I am sure you are a bundle of nerves right now. Thank goodness you didn't wait forever to go to the doc. Early intervention is the best.

Let us know how things go.

Myra

[gonnabethin 10]

Depending on the type skin cancer it is the removal isnt that bad. I had basal cell and they also used the layer and freeze method. It takes all day but In my opinion its better than leaving any trace behind. Depending on the size of the excision they will have a plastic surgeon do your closure- usually same or next day. Most of the time you do not need anything further than surgical removal.

Here's praying its anything other than melanoma.

Please keep us posted. And try no to worry - its there you cant control it so let it go for now. Read up and be prepared with your questions. Knowledge is power!

[NJChick 3]

Oh my, your in my prayers

My FIL and MIL has had lots of skin cancer removed from their faces (they are in their 80s), some was melanoma and some not, so far they have caught it early enough.

Sounds like you caught it early enough.... hang in there !!!!

[paula 4]

Hi Josette,

Fortunately I dont have ANY experience with skin cancer, but I am a sun lover and bask in it several times a week. Because of my love for sun tanning, I think about skin cancer quite often.

Im gonna be keeping an eye on this thread for future updates.

Good luck! ((hugs))

[vinesqueen 2]

All I can tell you is that I sure hope for the best, and that it really isn't cancer. I'll be thinking about you, take care!

[showboatgirl 0]

I had a basal cell removed a few years ago. Because it was so close to my nose, I opted for the MOHS surgery. I was so glad that I went to a MOHS surgeon because my scar is almost invisible. Before the surgeon sewed it closed, she showed me the hole. I was shocked because it looked big to me. I had a lot of neat little stitches. She did a great job. That procedure is the way to go. I hope things go well for you.