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BCC

KBull
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New here. Just wondered how typical my experience with BCC is.

I was diagnosed by biopsy in October 2024 and proposal was for plastic surgery. Unfortunately

my referral from Dermatology did not happen until March 2025 and I am now told waiting time for treatment is at

least 12 months. During this time I have been told to "manage the bleeding" with plasters.

What concerns me is that one consultant confirmed this type of cancer does not spread, while a different

consultant (the original one left) says it can do.

This situation is causing considrable stress and loss of confidence. I have to wear a hat both indoor and outdoor in public.

Attempts to divert to another health authority with my GP are being stonewalled so I have very little alternative

but to consider private treatment.

I would be grateful for any advice and other peoples experiences.

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    Hi Kbull

    Your experience is fairly typical. The NHS Dermatology departments are under great pressure from the huge volume of people presenting with BCC and SCC due to over exposure to UV sunlight.

    It is correct that BCC does not spread (as in metastasise)  but the lesions do slowly increase in size over time. You are also likely to get further lesions as you will have other areas of sun damaged skin. It is really important to protect your skin with suncream clothing and a hat if you dont already do so all year round. I also wear a hat all the time not just to protect my skin as I have some really awful scars from multiple previous surgeries which attract unwanted attention. I now have metastatic advanced SCC which has spread to my bones.

    As the lesion is now bleeding, if you can afford private treatment get it done. Depending on where you live its about £1500 often with the option of paying over 6 to 12 months at 0% interest.

    Ed

  • Offline in reply to Farmer_Ed

    Ed

    Many thanks for taking the time to reply. I am told that Plastic surgery is considered an emergency department

    these days so it makes me wonder if BCC is a victim of this. Having spent many years driving up and down the country

    I also wonder if this is an exposure factor which gets overlooked.

    All the best

  • Offline

    As said it's pretty typical, I am back g my 5th BCC removed next month after found a scrape in March.  Having chemo treatment on an ACC now as well then a wait for Mohs opp and skin graft.  Hope you're goes straightforward for you. 

  • Hello, and thank you for posting.

    I'm sorry that you're struggling with your BCC I am glad you have had support from fellow forum users.

    It is difficult for me to comment on what has been said to you previously by your doctor; however, I can say that it is very unusual for BCC to spread from its original site.

    Unfortunately, waiting times are difficult at the moment in dermatology departments, I do hope you get seen soon.

    Do read the British Association of Dermatology information on BCC if helpful.

    Take care, and if you want to talk to the nurses on the helpline call 0808 800 4040. Lines are open mon-fri, 9-5.

    Sarah.

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