Hello Jged

I'm sorry to hear about your experiences with BCC. I think it's understandable that you're feeling worried about things. 

I wonder if you might find it helpful to speak to one of our team of nurses. I'm sure that they will be able to answer some of your questions and offer some advice and support.

If you'd like to talk to them they're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator

Hi Jged.

I should start out by saying I'm not a doctor and I have no medical qualifications.

Basal cell carcinomas are usually caused by repeated exposure to U/V radiation, and it's not uncommon to get a second BCC some years after the first. Maybe it's because the whole of the face has received the same dose of U/V radiation?

However, please be reassured that while these things are a complete nuisance, you'd have to neglect a BCC for many years for it to become even vaguely life threatening, and of course you and your doctor are never going to let any BCC reach that stage.

As for disfigurement, I have several friends who've had BCCs removed and scarring has been minimal.  In fact, you'd never know it had happened to them. I think that as long as a BCC is removed as soon as you're aware of it, you won't need to worry about your looks. 

PS: I don't know if it's reassuring or not, but actor Hugh Jackman has had 5 of them removed from his face now (presumably due to exposure to the strong Australian sun), and his face gets projected on huge cinema screens! 

I'm pleased I was able to reassure you.

Hugh Jackman is very open about getting these things, which means that others won't be shy in coming forward.