Feeling worried ...

Hi I've recently had a WLE for a melanoma on my leg (3 weeks tomorrow).  I'm back at the clinic tomorrow for a follow up and hopefully results so I know I haven't got a long wait to get checked out.   However, I've removed my dressing this evening (they put another one on Monday just to protect it a little after removing the stitches.   I've found a lump towards the end of the stitches - its not massve, probably marble sized.   I'm wondering ifs scar tissue or something that is quite normal but its made me feel a bit sick with panic.

I know that no one can tell me what it is for sure, but has anyone experienced anything similar?  Thank you.

  • Hi,

    It might well be part of a stitch they failed to remove - they cause a lump in the scar line as the body tries to eject them from the skin. The consultant will check it today and I'm sure they will put your mind at rest. Good luck with your results - please let us know how you get on.

    Angie (melanoma patient)

  • Thank you Angie for responding.

    It ended up that I didn't see the consultant, I saw the cancer nurse.  She said the results had come back clear (which is obviously great news).  I told her about the lump and she just looked at my leg and said oh its just where the stitches have been pulled (theres a podgy bit sticking out now where they've taken the chunk out).  I told her it wasn't that bit and it was an actually lump so she had a quick prod and said its likely to be scar tissue.  Fingers crossed that is the case, I will just keep an eye on it.

    Glad that I'm all clear but not feeling the relief I was expecting.  I know I'm very lucky as it was caught so early but feel quite apprehensive that I'll get another.  I'm sure it all just needs to sink in a little as its all been very quick!  

    Thanks again