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Skin cancer

Chloe690
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I had a skin biopsy 4 weeks ago, 2 weeks ago i found out that it was indeed skin cancer. They let me know through letter that they were successful in getting it all but also said that this can come back. I'm thankful that they have got it all bit worried that it's going to come back and I don't then catch it. I'm struggling with dealing with this as this was on my forehead, the scar is quiet big and it's still so sore to touch. Is there anything you can suggest that might help with the soreness of the scarring and anything you can suggest that might help me to process the news?

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    Ive had many BCC and SCC lesions removed over 30 years.

    When the wound has healed, keep the scar moisturized 2X daily. If you gently massage the scar 10 minutes each day this helps with reducing its appearance. It will take 12 months for it to become less noticeable and will continue to fade with time.

    As you will have other sun damaged areas of skin. You can considerably reduce the chance of recurrence by using Factor 50 suncream on exposed skin every day including winter months. If you wear makeup this often includes SPF 50. Wear a hat, long sleeves dress/trousers jeans, avoid midday sun.

    Take vitamin D3 daily 5000UI to counteract lack of sun on skin and natural production of D3. A years supply is under £10.00  There are studies to show that daily vitamin B3 can be effective in preventing further SCC the same may also be true for BCC.

    Make a routine of checking your skin once a month say regularly on 1st or payday and if you notice any changes report them to your doctor or dermatologist.

    Hope this is of some help.

    Ed

  • Hello and thank you for your post,

    I can appreciate that having surgery on your face to remove cancer is a worrying time for you. 

    It is the case that some cancers can come back, but not all will. Please remember that it is all about knowing your body and reporting any areas giving you concern to your doctor.

    It sounds like it is still early days after the surgery, so there may be some swollen areas, these will go down. It could take weeks and sometimes months for the skin to settle down. Keeping the area clean and moisturised (with a non-perfumed moisturiser) can help.  Remember, that as time goes by any scarring you have will become less noticeable and paler in colour.

    If this is still painful take some over-the-counter pain relief.

    I see you have already received a helpful reply so I hope more people will get back to you with helpful information.  You may also find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline

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