I found out last week that I BBC (by biopsy).Its very small-about the diameter of a pencil eraser,it has the raised edge.Dr. options (she gave me 2):"scraping" (I imagine it being scooped out),or Mohs.She said Mohs was the "gold Standard"-this would be performed by another Dr.I was wondering with a carsinoma this small-how big (long) of an incission should I expect?If it was maybe an inch I could handle that.But to look in the mirror afterwards and find a two inch incision,well that might get me a bit upset.Any input would be appreciated.
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Q: Possible "size" of scar for Mohs procedure
Answers (1)
11/ 5/08 5:44pm
Well, here's the deal - and you don't mention if its on your face - i assume it is if you are concerned about incision size.
Mohs is the standard because its goals are to remove every last suspicious or cancerous cell with as minimal an incision as possible. I would "assume" this would be small BUT if they have to extend it a bit due to findings of questionable cells - you have to realize that means that you are getting peace of mind knowing that every last suspicious remnant has been removed.
The decision is ultimately your call.
9/23/09 10:35pm
I am sorry that you had that experience and yes, usually a doctor will warn you - even with MOHs , about the possibility of a scar. I would seek a board certified, highly recommended plastic surgeon who does alot of MOHs procedures specifically on the face. I would also discuss with him the possibility of using fillers and other treatments to correct the issues you have been left with.
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I had a small squamous cell carcinoma removed via the Mohs procedure a couple of years ago. It was just under my left nostril. The doctor said the scar would be unnoticeable. A LIE! He could have said that he hoped it would, but he insisted, even afterwards, when the scar was quite prominent and the lip deformed slightly upward, that I looked just the same. Everyone else saw the difference, though.
If I were you, I'd ask for a plastic surgeon to look at the carcinoma. I'm going to. I now have a basal cell right under the spot where the squamous cell one was. I'll end up looking as if I have a hare lip if the same doctor does more of the same thing! It never hurts to get another opinion! Even a third, if you are not satisfied.