treatment

[suki]

My consultant thinks I have a basal cell carcinoma on the side of my nose and I am worried about the treatment. I did not ask questions when I saw him and now I want to know. He said he would probably cut and sew but it may leave me with an upturned nostril which sounds horrible to me! Is there any way I can avoid this? Obviously, I must have it done but I was wondering if I could have a small skin graft instead of stitches.

Thank you for your help.

[ateyah]

You might want to get a second opinion from someone who performs MOHS surgery - it allows them to remove the least amount of tissue required for clear margins - they can also do skin grafts, if necessary.  Although, skin grafts aren't always cosmetically appealling.  But even without the skin graft, it may leave a more appealing outcome.

Otherwise - consider a second opinion with a plastic surgeon.  See if the two docs could work together.  Basal cell is usually slow growing, so check with your doc to see if you have some time to play with to get the best possible outcome that you feel you can live with.

Good luck!

[Kathy7777]

I had Mohs Surgery on my lip last August with very good cosmetic results. All of the cancer was removed as well.  I had squamous cell carcinoma. To find a surgeon near you go to www.mohscollege.org.  It will tell you all about Mohs Surgery and you can also find a Mohs surgeon near you.