Hi,

I know how worrying the wait is, especially if the BCC is growing fast. If it's in a visible or awkward place (eg. catching on clothing) then I would certainly ring the hospital and tell them you are happy to take a last minute cancellation if one comes up (assuming you would be available to do that). Otherwise, I'm afraid a 7 week wait is how long it's taking at the moment for non melanoma skin cancer biopsies. Pre-Covid they were averaging 4 weeks (melanoma biopsies were 2 weeks and are now 4 weeks) - unfortunately for you the melanoma biopsies always go to the top of the list as they can spread & are potentially fatal whilst basal cell isn't. Also, there are over 150,000 cases of non melanoma skin cancer diagnosed every year in the UK and 16,000 melanoma cases so it puts a lot of pressure on the dermatology departments, more so in these difficult times for the NHS. I know that doesn't help you with your worry but sadly it's always been the case (my sister-in-law, just before Covid, had a bcc diagnosed - it was 5 weeks before it was removed and another 8 weeks before she received the results).

I hope you manage to get your appointment brought forward and you are recovering quickly. Please let us know how you get on,

Angie (melanoma patient)

Thank you, I may call them and say I can come last minute. It's only for a scoop biopsy which will take minutes. The dermatologist asked them to do it on the day but they said Melanoma cases only. This is why I was suprised when the next appointment wasn't until the middle of May. Do you know how long the wait is for MOH's surgery? I guess I will then be waiting for another few months to get it removed. It's already grown 15mm in 3 months and is affecting the nerves in my ear and makes my ear numb. I'm just worried it's more serious but don't want to be too pushy and totally understand that melanoma is much more of a priority x 

I'm afraid I can't give you an idea as to the waiting time for MOHS surgery, especially as every hospital is different at the moment.

If the continued growth is causing you problems with your ear, I would contact your GP & explain the problem. The GP may have some sway in getting the hospital to move you up the list before the problem gets worse. Hopefully you won't be waiting too long. x

I'm afraid I can't give you an idea as to the waiting time for MOHS surgery, especially as every hospital is different at the moment.

If the continued growth is causing you problems with your ear, I would contact your GP & explain the problem. The GP may have some sway in getting the hospital to move you up the list before the problem gets worse. Hopefully you won't be waiting too long. x