Basal Cell Carcinoma
by Rachel
(Plymouth, MN, USA)
Six years ago, at the age of 30, I was diagnosed with Basil Cell Carcinoma ( Basal Skin Cancer ) on the tip of my nose. I was never a ‘tanner’, didn’t hit the tanning beds or lather myself up in baby oil and lay in the sun, which made it even more surprising.
I had a spot on my nose for almost 1 year that I thought was a pimple that wouldn’t go away. Finally a co-worker mentioned that she knew someone who had had Nose Skin Cancer and she was worried that that is what I had.
Another friend recommended I go right to a Skin Cancer Surgeon or plastic surgeon for a biopsy since it was in such a noticeable place. The numbing shots in the nose were absolutely the most painful thing I have ever experienced, including child birth.
After learning that it was a malignant Skin Cancer Cells, I scheduled Mohs Skin Cancer Surgery treatment with my dermatologist. Surprisingly that was very easy and a relatively painless process.
It’s a relief to know that the Skin Cancer Doctor can tell immediately whether or not they got the completely got the cancer removed. This was followed up by immediate plastic surgery to ensure that the scar wasn’t too visible.
Now when I am out in the sun I utilize both a sun protection hat and organic sunscreen. Hat shopping is fun, and a great way to keep my face out of the sun. Sunscreen, of course, is imperative, and frequent reapplications are so important.
I also have 6 month check-ups with my dermatologist, and do not hesitate to have anything suspicious removed. I highly recommend at least yearly checks as well as self checks.
While Skin Cancer used to be more prevalent in older patients, it seems that a lot of people in their 30’s and 40’s are now paying for their teen days of tanning. Stay out of the sun and be careful!!
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