BCC

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.

Parents
  • 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.

Reply
  • 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.

Children
  • Hi Sarah

    Thanks for your response. Sadly I have had a lifetime of unusual medical happenings.

    I do not think the problem lies particularly with dermatology departments (although in my case they did fail me), but rather

    the huge backlog in follow up treatment with plastic surgery. Dermatology does not accept any responsibility for this.

    One of my concerns is I still only have verbal "you are on the waiting list". In an effort to get more details I downloaded the NHS app

    but this does not confirm that I am.

    In my area waiting lists are still increasing as confirmed by the latest data and I do not have the option of paying for private treatment.

    so I guess like many others I am between a rock and a hard place.

    Kind Regards