Hello grogram and thanks for your post,

It is difficult to advise you without being involved in your care but if the doctors do advise removal of your lymph nodes I would be guided by their expertise.

The doctors normally check the lymph nodes nearest to where you had the original melanoma. The aim is to stop the spread of any cancer cells through the lymphatic system. I can understand that the fear of side effects is understandable but not everyone has all the side effects that you may have read about.

Having only one mole can still mean that you may or may not have cancer cells in your lymph gland/glands but the doctors usually like to rule this out.

Do discuss your concerns with the doctors or specialist nurse involved in your care.

If you would like to ring and chat through any of this with one of the helpline nurses then you are welcome to give us a call.

The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the nurses are here Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

All the best,

Catherine