Hello harriet4

I'm sorry to hear that you've recently been diagnosed with BCC. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious about the possible treatment options and which may be the right choice for you. 

We do have some information about MOHS and radiotherapy on our website which may be of help but I wanted to suggest giving our team of nurses a call to talk things through with them. I'm sure they would be happy to talk things through with you and help you consider both options along with thinking about any potential questions you may want to raise with the Consultant. If you'd like to speak with them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

Hopefully, if we've any members here on the forum who have experience with BCC they will reply to share their experiences with you. 

Whatever route you chose to follow, I hope the treatment is straightforward and successful. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

Hi,

hope you don't mind me asking, but did you go ahead with the MOHs surgery? I'm awaiting surgery on my face I feel I've waited a long time for and considering radiotherapy now.

many Thanks

The NHS will do plastic surgery if it's related to medical necessity. Ditto for dental treatment. You won't get much on the NHS such as teeth implants unless there's also a good reason. Loss of functionality due to an accident or cancer.

Your plastic surgery, whilst classed as cosmetic to a certain extent, would also be classed as a medical necessity. The NHS don't set out to disfigure people, and if disfigurement is a result of a necessary procedure, they will fix it to the best of their ability. So I wouldn't worry about that.

Edit: Ooooh. I didn't realise this had been upped from a few years a go.

Hi Yes in the end I had the MOHs procedure (was on the waiting list from September and finally had it done 6 months later).  My top lip had to be reconstructed as the cancer had gone into the lip.  A large triangle was cut out and flaps of skin pulled together to cover.  Nearly a year now - everyone says what a fantastic job and how they hardly notice the scarring now but notice it everyday and no longer have a bow in my lip.  It is still very tight and hurts to really give a beaming smile like I used to.  Either side of the scar is numb so find my top lip sticks to my teeth if talking a lot!  Would I have had it done if I had my time over?  No - I think I would choose the radiotherapy option!  Sue