Basal cell carcinoma on face - does it definitely need surgery

Hi everyone, I have seen a dermatologist this week who has diagnosed a BCC next to my nose. He’s referred me for excision but it’s not urgent. 

I’ve measured it and it’s around 3mm wide. I’m so scared about the scar I’m going to be left with and just wonder if there is any less extreme way of getting rid of it?

I know it seems vain but I have a very stressful job, I’m going through the menopause and I just feel this is going to really mess me up - emotionally and physically. 

Does anyone have any advice? Happy to go private if needed.

Parents
  • Hi Brownmouse, I am waiting to see a Surgeon on the 15th of this month to be advised how extensive my surgery will be for a BCC on my nose. I am 78 but if being vain is doing my hair and make up every day even if I am just around the house then count me in as vain!

    All I can say is that I am getting reports that with one as small as yours the scarring will be unnoticeable in a years time.

    My BCC has been assessed as 4mm and I am hoping that next spring we will be wondering what we had been so stressed about.

    I am going private as my Husband has private cover as part of his retirement package so I appreciate how lucky I am. In my area the NHS wait was at least 3 months, was told probally more like 6+ which was too long for me. I want rid of it as soon as possible so that I can get on with the rest of my life. We celebrate 55 years together this year and my Husband turns 80 so I could really have done without this!! Sending love.

Reply
  • Hi Brownmouse, I am waiting to see a Surgeon on the 15th of this month to be advised how extensive my surgery will be for a BCC on my nose. I am 78 but if being vain is doing my hair and make up every day even if I am just around the house then count me in as vain!

    All I can say is that I am getting reports that with one as small as yours the scarring will be unnoticeable in a years time.

    My BCC has been assessed as 4mm and I am hoping that next spring we will be wondering what we had been so stressed about.

    I am going private as my Husband has private cover as part of his retirement package so I appreciate how lucky I am. In my area the NHS wait was at least 3 months, was told probally more like 6+ which was too long for me. I want rid of it as soon as possible so that I can get on with the rest of my life. We celebrate 55 years together this year and my Husband turns 80 so I could really have done without this!! Sending love.

Children