So I got the results of my biopsies back and turns out the 3mm bump on my eyebrow that I have had for probably 6 months is not basal cell, it is squamous cell carcinoma. :( I am devastated after reading that there is a small chance of it spreading into the body and often reoccurs… my surgery date (mohs surgery) is not for 2 more weeks still and I am a mess. Does anyone have any success stories with squamous cell? I read that it is curable if caught early but I don't really consider 6 months "early." Any support or positive experiences would be greatly appreciated!! I want to see my babies grow up!
Had my mohs procedure done yesterday and the surgeon said he got all of the cancer out with clean borders. :)
I have had squamous cell lesions removed over the years. I really never gave it a second thought. Have had two friends who have had melanoma lesions removed and are fine. We all go every six months to be checked by dermatologist. Sit back, catch your breath and don't worry. The one on my shoulder (first one) was there for a long time. Who knows when it turned. I was 8 months pregnant. He is 37 years old now. Stay off the internet too.
Having had several pre-cancerous lesions removed from my face and back in recent years, I have been assured by 2 different dermatologists that basal cell cancers almost never spread, squamous cell cancers seldom spread, and neither are likely to be fatal, even if they have spread. I've learned not to sweat those biopsies, or I'd be a mess every time I get my skin checked. Wishing you the best!
"Early" with skin cancer is less about amount of time, and more about the depth of the lesion (mole).
The amount of time that they take to go from superficial (visible) to deep varies. (I know, this is not helpful for putting your mind at ease.)
I have had 3 malignant melanomas, I go for skin checks every 6 months, and it has not been a huge concern for me or my doctors to wait that long between visits. I also keep watch on my skin, and would call if I saw something out of the ordinary.
The good news with skin stuff is that for the most part, it seems like it moves pretty slowly.
I also assume that they took off the primary mole to test it. What they probably found is that they did not have enough margin on the mole- meaning they want to see space around it of normal skin, to make sure they get it all. With it being on your face, they will want to take care not to leave a monster scar when they go back for more. In my experience, two weeks is a reasonable amount of time between visits. I'd guess they got most/all of it the first time, but they just want to make sure that they did with the second excision.
BTW I am 5 years past the last 2 melanomas, and 8 years past the first. I am now 36, and had no family history of this. It sends your mind for a loop, that is for sure, but you will probably be OK. You'll just look at the world from a different view.
Hug to you. It is stressful. Take care of you.
The fact that they don't want to radiate you speaks volumes! My FIL had it on the back of one ear and the top of his head. They cut it off and he is fine now. Just be sure and go to your doc and have them examine you head to toe and mark down (or photograph) all your spots and lumps. Go every six months and get re-examined. Blessings and positive thoughts sent your way!
My M. just had is removed from her face about a month ago. They got it all and has not spread. My FIL had MELANOMA removed from his face a few weeks prior. He had to go back a few times but has been give the cancer free call. These were from moles on his face he has had for decades. We do not live in the dark ages of medicine. Many cancers like this are VERY treatable. While only time will tell, you have a very good chance of having no issues. I wish you the best!
