Hi Emily, I've just had two moles excised by a plastic surgeon under local anesthetic. The worst bit was the anaesthetic going in but that lasted all of six seconds. Tell them you are squeamish and they will look after you. I was also advised to stay out of the sun, which is not difficult for me as I don't like it! But I am careful to cover up and wear high SPF just to go out in the car if it's sunny. I'd do the same on holiday. Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, and cover up at other times, even if it's cloudy, and stay in the shade. I would use SPF 50+, reapply frequently, and buy a reliable brand. You have nothing to fear if you take sensible precautions. Hope you enjoy your holiday and the WLE goes well xx

Hi I have not actually had a melanoma diagnosis but have had pre cancerous skin problems. I was also scared to go out in the sun initially but brought good quality sunscreen factor 50 and this year have become more relaxed regarding the sun I do keep out of strong midday sun and never venture out without factor 50 There is a great sunscreen actually developed by a dermatologist that I buy from Amazon and very realistically price take a look it is called Altruist . I also go on holiday to a small Greek Island twice a year my dermatologist said it was fine to do this as long as Imuse Factor 50 and avoid the sun between 11.30 and 2.30 

Hi Emily 

I'm paranoid too! 
I was diagnosed with a thin1A melonoma in June on my stomach and had a WLE 11 days ago. I was away at the beginning of August and wore factor 50 religiously and also wore a think shirt over a vest top if I was walking around in the sun. If I went to the beach I sat under an umbrella. I never left the house without factor 50 on me and reapplied regularly. 

I think I will be paranoid for the rest of my life! 
 

The WLE was very similar to the biopsy except the scar is longer and I believe it's deeper. I'm in little pain but do have lumps at both ends of the scar. My GP isn't concerned but gave me antibiotics in case it was the start of an infection, now I'm wondering if it's scar tissue. 
 

you'll be fine with the WLE just relax and don't watch them (easier said than done I know) 

let me know how you get on I'll send you a friend request 
 

Hi Amy 

Thank you for your response! 
I smothered myself in factor 50 and stayed in the shade as much as possible. Really enjoyed my holiday too! Only a couple of little hiccups in terms of feeling really paranoid. 
 Thank you x

Hi! 
Hope you are doing OK  

I also just smothered myself in suncream, and stayed in the shade as much as I can. Still went in the pool but for shorter periods of time. I thought I was the only one who felt really paranoid being in the sun!! It will stick with us forever I think! 
 

I had my WLE last Tuesday - was uncomfortable as I'm very squeamish but the worst is over, although I have to wait 6 weeks for the results, but this time I'm not over thinking it or googling anything lol! 
 

Hope the antibiotics kick in

Hi there,

I was diagnosed last November with a Stage 1A MM and have found the first summer since a worry. Just like you've said: reapply plenty of Factor 50, sunhat, cover up and seek the shade. I don't think we'll ever feel safe in the sun, but that's a good thing.....we do need to be extra careful! But we still need Vit D so don't panic, so long as you're protected you will be good!