Hi guys. This is all fairly new to me. Back in February I noticed a mole that I'd had for what I remember as most of my life looked a bit darker in one half. I pondered for a few days, but then decided to make an appointment with the GP. The appointment was for 4 weeks time, which took me to March. By this point I'd already been on Google and got myself all upset. Anyway, GP sent me on an urgent 2 week wait referral, although it was actually 4.5 weeks by the time the hospital could see me due to a back log, so April 21st I went to the dermatology department who said it was concerning and they removed it there and then. I was told I would get the results in 4-6 weeks. 3 weeks later I had an appointment to go back - I knew it was cancer then, why would I be called back earlier than planned. Anyway, yes it is skin cancer, melanoma in situ and I cried, which looking back I feel stupid for doing so, but all I had heard was the word cancer and I remember her saying it is good news and I kept thinking how is this good news. Anyway, after a few days had passed and I had time to process everything I agreed it was good news and that it could have been so much worse.

I'm booked in for a WLE on 15th June. At the moment I've a round scar on my forearm, what am I to expect? Apparently they have already taken 4.5mm so they just need another 0.5mm. Do they remove the scar plus 0.5mm? Also, is there a reasoning as to why they don't take the recommended 5mm to begin with?

Will the recovery / healing be the same as before? I'm a self employed cleaner so last time the surgeon told me I couldn't work for at least a week, this time I'm prepared and informed my clients I'll be off for at least a week.

Also, is it normal to feel paranoid about every mole on your body? I am constantly looking at my moles now, daily, it's almost like it has become an obsession. I'm a very moley person as well which doesn't help.

I feel like I have waffled on and asked too many questions.

Thanks in advance for taking the time to read.