Hi, All!

Okay, I'm going to get a bit personal here...

I don't usually get this personal on an online site. But, I have some health issues for which I need some moral support.

One of them is possible skin cancer.

I know that the testing that I'll need to go through pales in comparison to what some of you have had to endure. At least a couple of our members have died within the past year because of health related issues. J_9 has had breast cancer and the surgeries for it. Nonetheless, it is my body, my health and my life.

I admit that I'm a pansy when it comes to needles and the knife of the surgeon.

The boils(?) on my nose have now become quite large. I have to do something about them.

My dad died of skin cancer complications in 1982. He was a mailman for 37 years and spent a lot of time out in the sun. I'm worried that I might have the same thing happening to me.

I have an appointment on February 4th to have a doctor take a sample for a biopsy. A friend who is a nurse will be with me.

Please forgive me for being such a pansy, but I'm really scared! This is not the only thing that's going on in my life and with my health for which I have fear...

Please do share, if you've had to go through something similar.

I appreciate your support!

Thanks!

That is scary! I just had skin cancer twice in the past year, but mine was basal cell. I think I have another spot of it on my leg too, so I understand being scared. My twin had a malignant melanoma a few months ago, and that is very scary.

My advice is, keep your eyes closed. Don't look around to see any needles or scalpels. Hold your friend's hand. Hope and pray that what ever it is, you can be treated in time to save your life.

When I went back, after the biopsy, I knew it was cancer as soon as I saw the doctor. He didn't look at me, he kept his face pointed down at my chart for too long. I knew then it was cancer. I was relieved that it was basal cell and he said it looked like they got it all.

I had one spot cut out and one spot treated with liquid nitrogen. It didn't hurt, but that's because I didn't look ;)

Good luck, and know that you are very brave to go have this biopsy.

Thank you for your concern as well as condolense and empathy, thisisit!

It really bothers me!

If yours was basal cell, is that bad?

Thanks!

Clough... Everyone is a pansy when it comes to needles and surgery, you are not alone.

I've had over 20 surgeries, along with 6 months of chemo, and I'm still a pansy.

Honey, 1982 was a long time ago. There have been tremendous advances since then.

Sweetie, you need to be proactive in ALL of your health issues.

Clough...Everyone is a pansy when it comes to needles and surgery, you are not alone.

I've had over 20 surgeries, along with 6 months of chemo, and I'm still a pansy.

Honey, 1982 was a long time ago. There have been tremendous advances since then.

Sweetie, you need to be proactive in ALL of your health issues.

Well, I'm trying, and I'm glad that you came along here! :)

I know that you've already been through one hell of a lot of things!

I'm just scared that it's going to be something really bad!

Originally posted by thisisit

No, my basal cell cancer was not bad, compared to melanoma!

Please do continue to post, thisisit!

I am concerned...

Thanks!

Well, I'm trying, and I'm glad that you came along here! :)

I know that you've already been through one hell of a lot of things!

I'm just scared that it's going to be something really bad!

It might be bad. But bad is all in how you look at it.

Was breast cancer bad? To you maybe, to me no. It's all a state of mind hun.

I'm here, by internet... phone etc, if you need an ear.

C, The worst thing I have done was thinking too much, it drove me crazy.

With my bipolar I sometimes just over analyze the symptoms,the feeling that I just won't get better.

To find inner piece and some form of serenity,I have to find acceptance.Accepting things as they are,allowing myself to feel the feelings and emotions,opening up to those that support me(Being a panzy, no,I say this is a good step into being a real human)

Hey clough,its OK to be scared,I had a cervical cancer scare some years ago,I received treatment,that was OK.

The worst part was receiving the news,and awaiting results,once I knew what I was dealing with I was better able to get my head around it.

You're a good man,and nice man,I've great time for you.

Your in my thoughts and prayers.

It is human nature to always expect the worse whenever we get tested for health issues. But more times than not, the outcome is usually far less than worst case scenario. As J_9 stated, the advances in medicine, and treatment, in the past twenty years or so, have made our lives longer, and more secure.

May God bless you and be by your side throughout whatever lies before you.

You are in our prayers, Clough. Remember that, and be strong.

Hi Clough, Often times not knowing is more worrisome than knowing. Have you done any research on what your skin lesion looks like? I was looking at some statistics on skin cancer and found that over a million people were diagnosed with skin cancer in 2008 but only 1,000 died from it. Here is a link you may not have seen yet: 5 Skin Cancer Signs and Symptoms You Cannot Afford to Overlook, Page 2 of 2 - Associated Content - associatedcontent.com (http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1703585/5_skin_cancer_signs_and_symptoms_you_pg2.html?cat= 5)

Even if you find out you have melanoma, the sooner you find out the better chance you have of complete cure. Here is a link on melanoma: Melanoma Treatment - The Skin Cancer Foundation (http://www.skincancer.org/melanoma-treatment.html)

And I'll say it again, you are brave to go have the biopsy! You are doing the right thing.

Hi Clough, Often times not knowing is more worrisome than knowing. Have you done any research on what your skin lesion looks like? I was looking at some statistics on skin cancer and found that over a million people were diagnosed with skin cancer in 2008 but only 1,000 died from it. Here is a link you may not have seen yet: 5 Skin Cancer Signs and Symptoms You Cannot Afford to Overlook, Page 2 of 2 - Associated Content - associatedcontent.com (http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1703585/5_skin_cancer_signs_and_symptoms_you_pg2.html?cat= 5)

Even if you find out you have melanoma, the sooner you find out the better chance you have of complete cure. Here is a link on melanoma: Melanoma Treatment - The Skin Cancer Foundation (http://www.skincancer.org/melanoma-treatment.html)

And I'll say it again, you are brave to go have the biopsy! You are doing the right thing.

I'll be sure to check out those sites! I've seen many images of skin cancer on the Internet. However, I've yet to find one that looks like mine!

What did yours look like, please?

Thanks!

Mine was just like smooth skin colored mole, a little pinker than the rest of my skin, but it itched and sometimes would flake a little. Plus, it was growing. Sometimes when I would scratch it, it would bleed easily. That was on my collar bone area. I have another one just like it on my leg. I had another one on my cheek. That one was treated with liquid nitrogen twice, without biopsy. The dermatologist said it was skin cancer but not melanoma.

My twin's melanoma was black and dark brown and irregular shaped. It also itched and would bleed easily.

Mine started as what would appear to be a very small cut, like an open wound. It took it at least a couple of years to grow. It would itch and hurt, (still does!), and I'd end up scratching it in my sleep! Many times, as it did continue to grow, I would wake up with a bloody mess on me nose!

Also, when I've left it alone and put Neosporine on it, it would appear to heal. But, never go away completely.

Now, it's about a half inch long with raised bumps that are kind of waxy in appearance and touch. I can actually see little capilaries in the biggest bump.

I've seen descriptions on the Internet that match what I have, however never any images that are like it.

Mine does flake some, but so does the rest of my face. I have very dry skin on my face.

I've had 3 rounds of basal cell - I'm very fair and spent a lot of time in the sun without sunscreen at one time. No lasting effects other than some slight scarring. I had mine removed by a Plastic Surgeon (no Dermatologist for me) and, aside from being somewhat frightened the first time because the Doctor had been watching the area (now the minute "something" looks unusual I'm at the Doctor asking for a biopsy) I've had no problems.

Yes, it's a scare, particularly when there's a family history.

Keeping you in my thoughts -

Hi Clough, looking various cancers up on the net, is not always a good thing, I recently had a bowel operation, which is still not concluded, but I literally frightened myself to extreme.

My daughter who is a theatre nurse did warn me not to go searching on these sights, but curiosity got the better of me and of course I did.

The operation wasn't to be recommended, but was not the horror picture that I had built in my own mind,the trouble is every time someone mentions the 'C' word we all panic.

My daughter has just had a wart removed from her arm by her doctor as a precaution, just in case,it had changed shape and colour,which also put me in state of panic,she on the other hand remained perfectly calm adding that there would be 3 monthly checks just to make sure everything was as it should be.

Every day she attends operations that include removal of tumours of all kinds which she states almost all are benign,many are removed as a precaution.

I am so glad that you have plucked up the courage to deal with this now, so many people leave things for fear of what they may be told,which I totally understand,I think we are all pansies regarding this issue.

I feel sure that everything will be fine and that once you have seen your doctor you will be wondering what all the fuss was about.

Think positive, try not to listen or read every horror story, we can all tell one but that doesn't necessarily mean your diagnoses will be the same.

Goodluck

As your appointment is tomorrow I just wanted to wish you well and let you know your in my thoughts and prayers.

Ill cross fingers and toes too!

Agree with Redhed - especially in my thoughts today and tomorrow.

I'm going to get cut, I'm going to get cut, I'm going to get cut, tomorrow!

Can you imagine the music to that? :p

I'm gonna get cut, I'm gonna get cut, I'm gonna get cut, tomorrow!

Can you imagine the music to that?! :p

Actually I just had an image of a bearded man running around the room screaming 'im going to get cut I'm going to get cut and then bumping into a wall.

Perhaps some zulus in the corner jumping up and down... for effect.

Don't panic,all will be well.

actually i just had an image of a bearded man running around the room screaming 'im gonna get cut im gonna get cut and then bumping into a wall.

perhaps some zulus in the corner jumping up and down...for effect.

dont panic,all will be well.

Actually, I am a bearded man! Perhaps you've connected with me in more than one way?

Actually, I am a bearded man! Perhaps you've connected with me in more than one way?

I know you're a bearded man because you told me in a thread,I just pay attention.

But the zulus,now that's a different matter.

What is zulus, please?

I haven't a clue!

Thanks!

A zulu is an african warrior,there is a famous film with michael caine it was made about 1964/5...

There is a part in the film where thousands of zulus run down this hill and slaughter british soldiers... its an epic scene.

Hmmm,if you did'nt know zulu I guess my joke flat lined.

A friend is picking me up in about fifteen minutes to take me to my appointment.

Please pray for me and/or send your good thoughts to me!

Going to get cut, today... :eek:

Thanks!

a zulu is an african warrior,there is a famous film with michael caine it was made about 1964/5...

there is a part in the film where thousands of zulus run down this hill and slaughter british soldiers...its an epic scene.

hmmm,if you did'nt know zulu i guess my joke flat lined.

I don't get out much, redhed35!

When my keepers let me out, it's usually at night, when there aren't as many people around! :D

Hey clough,take a deep breathe,stay in control of your thoughts,don't let them run amouk.

I'm sending positive vibes your way.

hey clough,take a deep breathe,stay in control of your thoughts,dont let them run amouk.

im sending positive vibes your way.

Thank you!

It's going to happen, soon! I'm glad that a nurse friend is going to be with me! I hope that I don't squeeze her hand too hard!

I know that it's something that I just simply need to do! No choice here! Have to do something...

These things are getting bigger! Plus, I'm starting to freak out!

I'm going to probably one of the best surgeons in the area!

Bless his heart! I'm glad that he's willing to help me!

I know, I'm just a pansy! Many people go through so much... endure so much pain...

Why am I so afraid?

Got to go now...

Will report back as to how things went!

Thanks!

Because it's the unknown,will all fear what we don't know,what might be,our imaginations conjure up the worst.

Your being proactive in your health.

Fear is fear, and hurt is hurt,is does not matter if your terrified of spiders or seeing a surgeon,its fear.

Think back on your life,is this the worst thing that you have ever faced?

If so,when its done,whatever the outcome,know that you faced your fear head on,and that's takes courage.

Update:

Just got back from visiting the doctor.

He wants to operate at the hospital. Needs to also do a skin graft. Wants to go down to the bone. I'll be awake during the whole thing.

Operation is in two weeks.

He's 99% sure that it's basil cell carcinoma.

A nurse also took pictures of it. I asked her if that would be on the Internet. She assured me that it wouldn't be.

Thank you all for your concern, prayers and good thoughts!

because its the unknown,will all fear what we dont know,what might be,our imaginations conjure up the worst.

your being proactive in your health.

fear is fear, and hurt is hurt,is does not matter if your terrified of spiders or seeing a surgeon,its fear.

think back on your life,is this the worst thing that you have ever faced?

if so,when its done,whatever the outcome,know that you faced your fear head on,and thats takes courage.

No, it's not the worst thing that I've ever faced.

You give an excellent perspective on things, redhed35!

Thank you so much!

It's good you didn't wait any longer, Clough! It sounds like the doctor knows what he's doing. A skin graft will help you heal faster and give a better look once it is healed.

Have you had experience with or known people who've had skin grafts, thisisit?

I would appreciate hearing what experience people have had with them.

Thanks!

See all went OK, and you were running around singing 'im going to be cut'!

All you have to do now is put your head down and your shoulder to the work that's needs to be done.

Easy peesy.

see all went ok, and you were running around singing 'im gonna be cut'!

all you have to do now is put your head down and your shoulder to the work thats needs to be done.

easy peesy.

Yeah, I was singing, "I'm gonna be cut!"

Well, it's now a certainty that I am going to be cut, and I have a date with the surgeon and his knife for that!

Is it really going to be that easy?

Thanks!

We all have mountains to climb clough,how you view that mountain is important,is it too hard? Or is it achievable?. others have done it,so can you... your embarking a personal learning journey,your going to learn a lot about yourself during this time.

Writing about the experience will help you reflect.

Be brave be strong and be true to your feelings and you can't go too far wrong.

Sounds like a lot of codswallop!

But it has worked for me,hell,it might work for you too.

What's "codswallop", please?

Thanks!

What's "codswallop", please?

Thanks!

Nonsense,I guess is the best description.

Well, you've just taught me a new word then, redhed35!

Next time someone says something negative,insulting or just plain stupid,you can say... codswallop!

next time someone says something negative,insulting or just plain stupid,you can say...codswallop!

Good response! I couldn't spread the "love" so soon after having given it to you so recently!

I don't know anyone personally, Clough. I know of patients who have had skin grafts, but mainly my experience with patients with skin grafts was while I was a student. I did work medical/surgical for a couple years and some of those patients had skin grafts. There are different types of skin grafts. Did your doctor give you any literature to read while you are waiting?

The skin graft generally creates another 'wound', and of course the area the graft is moved to has to be watched carefully for signs of healing or tissue death. Usually some antibiotic cream will need to be applied three times a day till healing is complete.

I stayed away from burn patients, who are the patients most often to receive a skin graft. So my experience is very limited in that area. I could never tolerate the suffering of a burn patient while I was a student, so I avoided working with many patients who had skin grafts.

Good response! I couldn't spread the "love" so soon after having given it to you so recently!

You sound in good form.

Good.

I don't know anyone personally, Clough. I know of patients who have had skin grafts, but mainly my experience with patients with skin grafts was while I was a student. I did work medical/surgical for a couple years and some of those patients had skin grafts. There are different types of skin grafts. Did your doctor give you any literature to read while you are waiting?

The skin graft generally creates another 'wound', and of course the area the graft is moved to has to be watched carefully for signs of healing or issue death. Ususally some antibiotic cream will need to be applied three times a day till healing is complete.

I stayed away from burn patients, who are the patients most often to receive a skin graft. So my experience is very limited in that area. I could never tolerate the suffering of a burn patient while I was a student, so I avoided working with many patients who had skin grafts.

No, I wasn't given any literature to read. Although, I do really trust this doctor. I know that he's one of the best in this area. I also know him on a professional as well as personal basis.

Perhaps I've already read enough things though...

Thanks!

You were in my thoughts all day - I think you find a Physician you trust (which you have done), someone with a good reputation (if not a great reputation), someone YOU can work with (my sister's Doctor isn't necessarily someone I can work with) and then you count on prayers and good luck and just plain "thank God I caught this now."

You are doing all the right things - but you already know that.

There used to be a John Wayne Skin Cancer study which was very comprehensive, came out with comprehensive (printed) results - most helpful in times like you are going through. I don't know if it's still an active study, still around.

I'm glad that you were thinking about me, Judy! That means a lot to me! It's much appreciated!

The doctor wants to excise things all the way down to the bone! He also wants to make a skin graft. That will be skin that will come off my chest area.

Any other moral and emotional support will be much appreciated here!

Thanks!

I'm glad that you were thinking about me, Judy! That means a lot to me! It's much appreciated!

The doctor wants to excise things all the way down to the bone! He also wants to make a skin graft. That will be skin that will come off of my chest area.

Any other moral and emotional support will be much appreciated here!

Thanks!


How about "thank goodness you caught it in time" and you will have a whole lot of people praying for you?

Sounds like a real shock - I can't imagine hearing these words BUT I do know that the medical profession really does perform miracles. You want it removed and you want to make sure it does not come back and this appears to be the only way. Sometimes coming to terms with a shocker like this is the worst part. Sounds like you're staying strong and working your way through this. I trust you have some personal support? That means a lot.

I really do have a sense that we are all family here and pulling for each other so you can get some comfort in knowing that people whose faces you wouldn't even recognize are pulling for you.

Please keep us informed - I wish I had magical words but I don't but I hope I've "said" something that comforts you.

Originally Posted by Clough
I'm glad that you were thinking about me, Judy! That means a lot to me! It's much appreciated!

The doctor wants to excise things all the way down to the bone! He also wants to make a skin graft. That will be skin that will come off my chest area.

Any other moral and emotional support will be much appreciated here!

Thanks!


How about "thank goodness you caught it in time" and you will have a whole lot of people praying for you?

Sounds like a real shock - I can't imagine hearing these words BUT I do know that the medical profession really does perform miracles. You want it removed and you want to make sure it does not come back and this appears to be the only way. Sometimes coming to terms with a shocker like this is the worst part. Sounds like you're staying strong and working your way through this. I trust you have some personal support? That means a lot.

I really do have a sense that we are all family here and pulling for each other so you can get some comfort in knowing that people whose faces you wouldn't even recognize are pulling for you.

Please keep us informed - I wish I had magical words but I don't but I hope I've "said" something that comforts you.

I've already written this previously, might have been on this thread or on another - don't really remember. But, it's so nice to know that I'm not alone!

Thank you so much for your support!

Update:

Went to see the surgeon last week. All he did was look at it and said that he was 99% sure that it is basil cell carcinoma.

I'm having surgery at one of the local hospitals, this coming Thursday at 7:30 A.M. Need to be there by 6:30 A.M.

I would appreciate thoughts and prayers!

Thanks!

I was just thinking of you. You can count on me. I'm very sure your surgeon is right! I'll be sending you lots of positive, healing energy :)

Would you please share with me how things went with the procedures that you've already had, thisisit?

Thanks!

Awww, just seeing this Cloughy... please keep us posted and you're not a pansy- you're human. It's OK to be scared; we all are at some point in our lives. It takes a strong person to admit it.

Hang in there!

OK... I went to the hospital, nervous, of course. I was brave, just like you. I did not look at the doctor's instruments or the needles. I had two spots on my collar bone, one was a benign cyst, the other basal cell carcinoma. I made sure I looked away the whole time. I was injected along my collar bone near both spots. That made my skin nice and numb. The surgeon then cut out the cyst. That was harder to get out than the basal cell carcinoma. The cyst was kind of deep so there was some digging around, but all I could feel was pressure. About an inch away was the basal cell, which the surgeon cut out after the cyst. Then he stitched me up. It took a lot longer than I thought, but the surgeon just wanted to be sure he was thorough. The stitches were very irritating. They were the kind that are supposed to dissolve on their own, but they didn't. After a couple weeks I scraped the skin away from a couple knots in the stitches and pulled them out with tweezers.

I'm going to call the surgeon next week for the spot on my leg, I'm pretty sure it is basal cell carcinoma and its not going away by itself. You have inspired me stop putting it off and make the call. :)

Also, the spot on my cheek was taken care of at the dematologist's office. He just used a Q tip type thingy soaked in liquid nitrogen and burned the area on the side of my cheek. That didn't hurt much and required no special treatment.

You will probably be given drugs to make you go to sleep for your surgery, or to make you sleepy, I'm guessing.

I've been told that I will be given a local anesthetic and be awake the whole time.

He also is going to do a skin graft, taking the skin from my collar bone area.

He will be taking the stuff off my nose down to the bone.

I don't like needles. But, I guess they aren't that bad!

Well, that is lucky. You won't have to recover from anesthesia, which is a big plus on staying awake! Needles aren't bad, compared to scalpels! The thing with noses, there is not a lot of thickness as far as tissue goes, so, to be safe they have to go down to the bone... that isn't really very deep on the nose.

Well, the "count down" is here! If I haven't mentioned it already, surgery is this Thursday, at 7:30 A.M.

I would appreciate thoughts and prayers!

Thanks!

Gee, Clough, just happened on all of this now. You have already had the surgery cause this is Monday. Please let us know asap how you feel and what you are doing.

Tick

I'm pulling for you Clough, you are in my thoughts. Courage... you have courage! I'll be calling about my skin cancer in a few minutes, soon as the office opens. Thank you for sharing your courage with me!

gee, Clough, just happened on all of this now. You have already had the surgery cause this is Monday. Please let us know asap how you feel and what you are doing.

tick



I think the surgery is this coming Thursday, the 18th -

At any rate, Clough, you're in my thoughts and have been.

gee, Clough, just happened on all of this now. You have already had the surgery cause this is Monday. Please let us know asap how you feel and what you are doing.

tick

The surgery is this coming Thursday, the 18th, 7:30 A.M. I do appreciate your thoughts and concern, tickle! :)

Thanks!

I'm pulling for you Clough, you are in my thoughts. Courage.... you have courage! I'll be calling about my skin cancer in a few minutes, soon as the office opens. Thank you for sharing your courage with me!

What was the news, thisisit? I hope and pray that it was good!

Hey, thank you for sharing your good thoughts and courage with me! :)

My luck hasn't been so good today... My surgeon retired in December, just a couple months ago. The doctor who took over his practice does not accept my insurance. My insurance company informed me that I could make an appointment with any general surgeon or dermatologist in my area and they would approve it. So far none of the doctors I've called are willing to see me on those terms. The next doctor I call, I will be making the appointment as a self pay and will say I don't have insurance. The doctors I've called so far have said they cannot charge me if I have insurance that they don't accept~ so, they've refused to give me an appointment. The worst part, for me anyway, is just making the appointment. Taking that step is the hardest for me, now it is even more difficult due to insurance issues.

What about calling your old surgeon or maybe a nurse who worked with him to see what they have to say?

I'm sorry that you're having those difficulties!

Thanks, I'm not sure what I'm going to do. All the insurance reps were busy with other customers having similar problems. I did not get a call back this afternoon. If I get a call back tomorrow, I'll ask if there is someone at the insurance company who can arrange for an appointment with a doctor's office of their choice. If they can't, then I'll call a doctor myself, one I haven't called yet, and make a self pay appointment.

The surgery is this coming Thursday, the 18th, 7:30 A.M. I do appreciate your thoughts and concern, tickle! :)

Thanks!

I am right there with you in spirit and thoughts. You will sail right through the whole procedure and come out a winner Clough *****high five*****

Tick

Thanks, tickle! :)

Does anyone have an idea as to how long the type of surgery that I'm going to have might take? Raised, bumpy area on nose that's about 3/4's of an inch long, maybe a little over 1/4 of an inch wide. Skin graft will come from collar bone.

Thanks!

Good luck for in the morning, Clough! This evening, you should do something soothing and relaxing, something you enjoy. Treat yourself with your most enjoyable relaxing *whatever it is that soothes you. Maybe record some of your fav music to take along in the morning. You could keep your eyes closed and listen to your favorite music while the good doctor does his magic?

Good luck for in the morning, Clough! This evening, you should do something soothing and relaxing, something you enjoy. Treat yourself with your most enjoyable relaxing *whatever it is that soothes you. Maybe record some of your fav music to take along in the morning. You could keep your eyes closed and listen to your favorite music while the good doctor does his magic?

This is Ash Wednesday, so tonight, I'll be going to church. That will help.

Thank you so much for your suggestions! They're great! :) I hadn't even really given any thought to doing something relaxing! It's just the way that I am...

Clough, We are praying for you down here.

Go do something that you enjoy to ease your mind.

Let us know how it goes.

God bless you.

Clough, We are praying for you down here.

Go do something that you enjoy to ease your mind.

Let us know how it goes.

God bless you.

Well, bless your heart, jmjoseph! It's much appreciated!

God Bless You, Too!

Thanks! :)

Hello Again, Friends! :)

Well, the surgery was a success and not really as bad as I thought it would be. The initial shots in my nose didn't really hurt all that much, but the shots above my right eye below my eyebrow did really hurt!

I really don't know why I was so afraid...

It all worked out fine and I also wasn't a basket case! Just need to get through the healing process now.

Everything extracted was basil cell carcinoma and would appear to have been completely removed. Halleluia!

The whole procedure took about two hours and forty-five minutes. That was with waiting for reports from the lab three times, as to whether the edges were clear of cancer or not.

I could hear the surgeon scraping on the bone of my nose!

I tried to open my eyes a number of times. However, they were covered in blood, so I gave up on that until the end.

I have this cotton balls "thing" on the top of my nose that makes me look like a cyborg, cyclops or maybe even a pirate!

Arghhhh maties!! https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/../images/smilies/biggrin.gif

The cotton balls are held together with sutures and would appear to function as a clamp for the skin graft. Makes it look like a big spider is also there!

It's impairing my vision. I do need to be able to play. Have requested from the person who'll be selecting the hymns for Sunday to choose those that are easy to read as well as play.

One concern that I have right now, is that there is still blood flowing down the right side of my face occasionally. Is this normal?

Thanks!

Hi Clough, how long ago was your surgery finished? Are you still getting trickles of blood down your cheek? I'm so glad everything went as well as it did. I cringe reading the part where you could hear the surgeon scraping bone! Eeeek:eek: It sounds like you had some cutting very close to your eye, it is possible that your eye could be tearing a lot and that is mixing with small amount of blood making it seem like you have active bleeding. The main bleeding should be stopped by now. Have you been on aspirin or blood thinning medicine?

One bright side: For a while, at least, you'll be reminded that you have a nose with all the bandages.

It wasn't so bad, was it?

Hi Clough, how long ago was your surgery finished? Are you still getting trickles of blood down your cheek? I'm so glad everything went as well as it did. I cringe reading the part where you could hear the surgeon scraping bone! eeeek:eek: It sounds like you had some cutting very close to your eye, it is possible that your eye could be tearing a lot and that is mixing with small amount of blood making it seem like you have active bleeding. The main bleeding should be stopped by now. Have you been on aspirin or blood thinning medicine?

It was finished at about 10:15 this morning.

Yes, I'm still getting, I will say, a stream of blood down my cheek.

Part of the cutting was right by the right eye. No real gap there!

A retired nurse friend of mine who was there meantioned the tearing thing. That could be what it is concerning the blood flow.

No, I've not been on aspirin or any sort of blood thinning medication.

I really do appreaciate your concern!

Thanks!

One bright side: For a while, at least, youll be reminded that you have a nose with all the bandages.

It wasn't so bad, was it?

Yes, it wasn't so bad as I thought that it would be! The surgeon did go out a couple of times to meet with my kids and a friend who were waiting for me. He did mention to them both times about how much I moaned.

He mentioned that to me in the operating room about my moaning and that he just needed to do his work.

I reminded him, that he did this thing all the time, but that some of us have never done it.

We also joked around a lot...

Thanks!

Clough, We are praying for you down here.

Go do something that you enjoy to ease your mind.

Let us know how it goes.

God bless you.

I believe that the prayers really worked!

I've not been that calm, ever, for any procedure that I've had done!

Thanks!

Something to keep in mind: just a tiny little bit of blood mixed with water/tears looks like a lot of blood. If you think it is actively bleeding, can you apply light but firm and gentle pressure over the area you believe is bleeding. If it gets worse, call the doctor's office. He should have an after hours answering service who can have him give you a call.

Something to keep in mind: just a tiny little bit of blood mixed with water/tears looks like a lot of blood. If you think it is actively bleeding, can you apply light but firm and gentle pressure over the area you believe is bleeding. If it gets worse, call the doctor's office. He should have an after hours answering service who can have him give you a call.

I don't dare to apply any pressure at this point. I really don't know about everything that's underneath the cotton balls.

Don't really want to disturb anything.

Yes, I agree. A tiny bit of blood mixed with tears can look like a lot of blood.

I will call him if things get worse.

Thanks!

I have empathy for you because I have an idea of how you feel, I myself am a skin cancer survivor. I have had several squamous cell carcinoma, one over thirty years ago, I am the ripe old oge of seventy-nine now and I go twice a year to have a once over for any new pre-cancer spots.

I don't dare to apply any pressure at this point. I really don't know about everything that's underneath the cotton balls.

Don't really want to disturb anything.

Yes, I agree. A tiny bit of blood mixed with tears can look like a lot of blood.

I will call him if things get worse.

Thanks!

Yes, I'd be worried too about where to put pressure, exactly, without disturbing the skin graft. There is no way really since you did not see it before it was bandaged. It is probably just extra tearing from irritation... the tear glands are up there between your eyebrow and eye lashes near where you got injections. That alone could be irritating enough to cause extra tearing.

Just call the doc if it gets worse or the blood seems to be bloodier, if you know what I mean.

Originally Posted by Clough https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/medical-conditions-diseases/going-get-tested-possible-skin-cancer-am-nervous-about-441148-post2236594.html#post2236594)
I don't dare to apply any pressure at this point. I really don't know about everything that's underneath the cotton balls.

Don't really want to disturb anything.

Yes, I agree. A tiny bit of blood mixed with tears can look like a lot of blood.

I will call him if things get worse.

Thanks!



Yes, I'd be worried too about where to put pressure, exactly, without disturbing the skin graft. There is no way really since you did not see it before it was bandaged. It is probably just extra tearing from irritation... the tear glands are up there between your eyebrow and eye lashes near where you got injections. That alone could be irritating enough to cause extra tearing.

Just call the doc if it gets worse or the blood seems to be bloodier, if you know what I mean.

Your posts are full of compassion and empathy, thisisit!

I wish that you were my neighbor as well as my friend where I live locally!

Thanks!

I have empathy for you because I have an idea of how you feel, I myself am a skin cancer survivor. I have had several squamous cell carcinoma, one over thirty years ago, I am the ripe old oge of seventy-nine now and I go twice a year to have a once over for any new pre-cancer spots.

Thank you for sharing, letmetellu! I could not rep you after already having done so in the recent past.

If I have a "spot" in the future, I'm going to make sure that I have it checked out by a physician!

Thanks!

Hello Again, Friends! :)

Well, the surgery was a success and not really as bad as I thought it would be. The initial shots in my nose didn't really hurt all that much, but the shots above my right eye below my eyebrow did really hurt!

I really don't know why I was so afraid...

It all worked out fine and I also wasn't a basket case! Just need to get through the healing process now.

Everything extracted was basil cell carcinoma and would appear to have been completely removed. Halleluia!

The whole procedure took about two hours and forty-five minutes. That was with waiting for reports from the lab three times, as to whether the edges were clear of cancer or not.

I could hear the surgeon scraping on the bone of my nose!

I tried to open my eyes a number of times. However, they were covered in blood, so I gave up on that until the end.

I have this cotton balls "thing" on the top of my nose that makes me look like a cyborg, cyclops or maybe even a pirate!

Arghhhh maties!!!! https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/../images/smilies/biggrin.gif

The cotton balls are held together with sutures and would appear to function as a clamp for the skin graft. Makes it look like a big spider is also there!

It's impairing my vision. I do need to be able to play. Have requested from the person who'll be selecting the hymns for Sunday to choose those that are easy to read as well as play.

One concern that I have right now, is that there is still blood flowing down the right side of my face occasionally. Is this normal?

Thanks!

Glad to hear you are so upbeat, probably glad you got that under your belt and its all over for now. Don't worry about the blood, yes its normal. Blood is cleansing don't forget.

Keep us up dated please !

Tick

Glad to hear you are so upbeat, probably glad you got that under your belt and its all over for now. Dont worry about the blood, yes its normal. Blood is cleansing dont forget.

Keep us up dated please !

tick

Well, bless your heart, tickle! That's much appreciated! :)

Now the flow of the liquid is clear. Don't know what's up with that. I don't feel like I'm crying.

Thanks!

That's okay, probably white blood cells, cleansing too. The blood has done its work, now white blood cells are taking over. A normal occurrence. You must be a healthy man!

Whatever makes you happy and not worried, Clough !

Hugs

Thats okay, probably white blood cells, cleansing too. The blood has done its work, now white blood cells are taking over. A normal occurrence. You must be a healthy man !!

Whatever makes you happy and not worried, Clough !

hugs

Why would it be necessary for the wound/surgical stuff done to drain periodically, please?

Thanks!

Why would it be necessary for the wound/surgical stuff done to drain periodically, please?

Thanks!

So that the healing process can begin! ;)

It might be wound drainage, or it might be tear over flowing. There is a tiny duct in the corner of the lower eyelid called the nasolacrimal duct. It is in the corner near the bridge of the nose. It acts as a sort of tiny drain for the liquid our tear glands produce. Tear ducts produce excess fluid to keep the eye clean and lubricated. The extra fluid is transported out of the eye via the nasolacrimal duct that drains into the nasal cavity. (unless you are crying, then your tear glands produce even more liquid, and that spills over) If the surgeon disturbed this duct, the excess fluid would just spill over and drain down like a tear. It is possible that is what you are experiencing.

How is your pain level? Do you have swelling. How about a fever?

Originally Posted by Clough
Why would it be necessary for the wound/surgical stuff done to drain periodically, please?

Thanks!


So that the healing process can begin! ;)

Is that how things normally work, J_9? I have pain over about 1/4 of my face.

It drains even when I blow my nose.

I am just really glad that the surgical part is finished! :)

Thanks!

Yes, that is how the healing process begins. The clear fluid is white blood cells cleaning everything out and the scabbing should start soon. The pain will remain for a few days, but get lesser each day.

Yes, that is how the healing process begins. The clear fluid is white blood cells cleaning everything out and the scabbing should start soon. The pain will remain for a few days, but get lesser each day.

I had no idea that white blood cells looked like that!

Scabbing where? Along where the sutures have been applied?

The pain goes a few inches beyond where the surgery was done. But, I'm sure that you know all about that. Also, I'm sure that you know that I'm taking the generic equivalent of Darvocet.

At least with the white blood cells cleaning everything, maybe I might qualify as being a healthy person, at least after having surgery on my skin areas. Correct?

Thanks!

This is all of the healing process Clough. First the red blood cells, then the white come in behind. You may have some scabbing around the sutures.

Generic equivalent means nothing aside from money saving. They are the same really.

The white blood cells are cleaning around the wound area so that infection does not, hopefully, set in.

Clough, its called serous drainage, normal and healthy. Haven't you ever had a cut that was healing. It bleeds well, then it gets watery, that is serous drainage and white blood cells. Healthy people heal like that.

Anything else, greenish tinge, yellow colour is not good.

Tick

Hi Clough, if the surgeon disturbed your tear duct, which is located in the corner near the bridge of your nose, you would have clear fluid leaking down the side of your face even while you are resting and not crying. If this duct is swollen, obstructed, or if it got cut during your surgery, you would have that clear fluid leaking out of your eye area.

I could kick myself in the A$$!! How in h3ll did I ever miss your thread Clough??

I have read the whole thing and all I can say is you are a very courageous man, God bless you my friend.

Why didn't you email me to let me know? I feel like I let you down Clough, damn!

I am so glad that all went well for you. Please keep me informed buddy.

Again God bless you and I too said a prayer for you while reading your posts.

Stringer

Hi Clough, Sorry to bother you... I realize your eyesight is somewhat blocked, at the moment, but did your surgeon give you any literature about the kinds of drainage you could expect from your wound? Or did he or his nurse give you instructions and what to look for, or what to call the doctor about while you are recovering? Some kinds of drainage would be normal, as the experts have told you here. If you have increased pain, increased swelling, or a fever, or a colored drainage or discharge you should call your doctor.

Hi, I wasn't awake for your call and upon trying to call you I didn't raise you either,, we are like polar opposites as to the sleep patterns... :p

Try me before 9:30 or so, :)

Clough:

Been doing some stupid things lately and

1. Sliced 3 fingers with a razor blade accidentally cutting a bag of melting salt open. Clean cuts. Pushed on wound to try to stop bleeding. Wash with water. Wrap with gauze. Used vinyl glove with rubber band when showering. Switched to a flex fabric band-aid within a day. Haled up quick.

2. The second was a bit more messy. I was cutting up cardboard boxes with a utility knife with a hook type blade, Slashed by wrist about 1/2" vertically.

Bled a lot. Bled a little too much for a water rinse, so just wrapped it with gauze. Same deal with the glove. Switched to a huge bandaid. Turns out the cut was small, like 1/2".

Eventually changed the gauze, but added padding so it would not get bumped.

Then so Neosporin to get the redness away.

Then to close the skin with a homeaide bandage. Take a flex fabric bandaid and cut a semicircle out of both sides so only 1/8" of an inch is available in the middle. Use it to close the wound. it needs air to heal without a lot of scabbing.

Fun stuff.

There were two nasty cuts that i did in my life and I probably should have had stitches, but they haven't given me a moments trouble just two small scars.

A. I split my pinky open with a hammer. I pinched the edge of it and forced the guts out. I have a small 3/4" long scar for that one. I was probably 12-16 YO. Played doctor. Worked out.

B. I had a chain saw kick-back accident. Small scar when I can find it. That won't happen again. Again played doc. Probably 16-18 YO.

C. Large area sunburn isn't fun AT ALL. Been there. Done that.

Where all this wound care attention started was when I was in first grade, I got cut on a rusty nail. Well, this blue streak started traveling up my arm. Blood poisoning. Had to come home every day and bathe the wound in warm water and Epson salt. Lots of fun.

Yep, healing is fun. Dental surgeries hurt.

When my son played midget football he was tackling and had his hand on top of the player's helmet. Another player came helmet first and smashed his thumb completely flat. He went down and had his hand near his throat when I got to the field my first shock was that he had cut open his throat. Not so, but it was still very bad, he had to get 7 stitches and cried because he couldn't go back in the game.

Holy cow! I've got a lot of catching up to do here!

Later...

Off to church to see if I can see to play!

I could kick myself in the A$$ !!!!!! How in h3ll did I ever miss your thread Clough????

I have read the whole thing and all I can say is you are a very courageous man, God bless you my friend.

Why didn't you email me to let me know? I feel like I let you down Clough, damn!

I am so glad that all went well for you. Please keep me informed buddy.

Again God bless you and I too said a prayer for you while reading your posts.

Stringer

Well, bless your heart, Stringer!

When I count my blessings, they include you!

I'll be calling you, although I'm house and dog sitting again, so no free long distance!

Thanks!

clough, its called serous drainage, normal and healthy. Havent you ever had a cut that was healing. It bleeds well, then it gets watery, that is serous drainage and white blood cells. Healthy people heal like that.

Anything else, greenish tinge, yellow colour is not good.

tick

Yes, I've had cuts, but not like this!

Thanks!

Clough:

Been doing some stupid things lately and

1. Sliced 3 fingers with a razor blade accidently cutting a bag of melting salt open. Clean cuts. Pushed on wound to try to stop bleeding. Wash with water. Wrap with gauze. Used vinyl glove with rubber band when showering. Switched to a flex fabric band-aid within a day. Haled up quick.

2. The second was a bit more messy. I was cutting up cardboard boxes with a utility knife with a hook type blade, Slashed by wrist about 1/2" vertically.

Bled a lot. Bled a little too much for a water rinse, so just wrapped it with gauze. Same deal with the glove. Switched to a huge bandaid. Turns out the cut was small, like 1/2".

Eventually changed the gauze, but added padding so it would not get bumped.

Then so Neosporin to get the redness away.

Then to close the skin with a a homeaide bandage. Take a flex fabric bandaid and cut a semicircle out of both sides so only 1/8" of an inch is available in the middle. Use it to close the wound. it needs air to heal without a lot of scabbing.

Fun stuff.

There were two nasty cuts that i did in my life and I probably should have had stitches, but they haven't given me a moments trouble just two small scars.

A. I split my pinky open with a hammer. I pinched the edge of it and forced the guts out. I have a small 3/4" long scar for that one. I was probably 12-16 YO. Played doctor. Worked out.

B. I had a chain saw kick-back accident. Small scar when I can find it. That won't happen again. Again played doc. Probably 16-18 YO.

C. Large area sunburn isn't fun AT ALL. Been there. Done that.

Where all this wound care attention started was when I was in first grade, I got cut on a rusty nail. Well, this blue streak started traveling up my arm. Blood poisoning. Had to come home every day and bathe the wound in warm water and Epson salt. Lots of fun.

Yep, healing is fun. Dental surgeries hurt.

Hey, I've sawed into one of my fingers, the scar remains, and drilled a 1/4 hole in another finger when repairing a chair, there's more, but I can't remember right now...

Thanks!

Well, I'm a little reluctant to write now. My problems are minor compared to others.

Just would like to share, though...

Had the "pillow" of cotton swabs that was attached to my skin removed today. Didn't hurt to do that. Need to go back in a week to clean up the scabs for the skin graft and for a little trimming of the skin.

I don't like looking at myself in the mirror! To me, I look kind of gross and the skin graft looks like a piece of meat to me!

I could kick myself in the A$$ !!!!!! How in h3ll did I ever miss your thread Clough????

I have read the whole thing and all I can say is you are a very courageous man, God bless you my friend.

Why didn't you email me to let me know? I feel like I let you down Clough, damn!

I am so glad that all went well for you. Please keep me informed buddy.

Again God bless you and I too said a prayer for you while reading your posts.

Stringer

Hey, let me kick you, Stringer! I'd get a "kick" out of it! :p

We'll be in touch, soon! I promise! :)

Hi Clough, I saw the oncologist (cancer specialist) today and he made an appointment for me to have skin cancer removed from my leg on the 23rd. He says he is "very sure" it is basal cell carcinoma. Was thinking about you. I hope you are healing now, and feeling better. He said he wants to see me every six months to check me for skin cancer. He scheduled a six month appointment and says it is very important to do this. I would imagine it is important for you to have your skin checked regularly for new spots of skin cancer also. He said a dermatologist would be good enough, but he is going to check me himself every six months.

If you don't mind my asking is the oncologist doing the surgery or a plastic surgeon?

Or an oncologist/plastic surgeon?

Basel cell carcenoma is quite common. The surgery, though can remove the tissue very deep even for a small spot so all of the margins are removed.

If you don't mind my asking is the oncologist doing the surgery or a plastic surgeon?

Or an oncologist/plastic surgeon?

It was a plastic surgeon who did the surgery, Judy.

Thanks!

Hi Clough, I saw the oncologist (cancer specialist) today and he made an appointment for me to have skin cancer removed from my leg on the 23rd. He says he is "very sure" it is basal cell carcinoma. Was thinking about you. I hope you are healing now, and feeling better. He said he wants to see me every six months to check me for skin cancer. He scheduled a six month appointment and says it is very important to do this. I would imagine it is important for you to have your skin checked regularly for new spots of skin cancer also. He said a dermatologist would be good enough, but he is going to check me himself every six months.

How bad is the skin cancer on your leg, thisisit?

Thanks!

Basel cell carcenoma is quite common. The surgery, though can remove the tissue very deep even for a small spot so all of the margins are removed.

He removed the tissue down to the bone. I have little if any feeling left in the area of the skin graft.

I have a couple of other spots on my head for which I need to be watching...

Thanks!

Hi Clough, the spot of skin cancer on my leg is not bad at all. Mostly just irritating. It is small, about the size of a pencil eraser. It is below my left knee. I have a few other spots that are very small that the doc wants to keep watch over... actually, he wants to monitor my skin over all, because of my history. I'm thinking I will only need a few stitches on my leg.

I hope you are healing up from your skin graft. I know that non-feeling/numbness can be maddening!

Hi Clough, the spot of skin cancer on my leg is not bad at all. Mostly just irritating. It is small, about the size of a pencil eraser. It is below my left knee. I have a few other spots that are very small that the doc wants to keep watch over.... actually, he wants to monitor my skin over all, because of my history. I'm thinking I will only need a few stitches on my leg.

I hope you are healing up from your skin graft. I know that non-feeling/numbness can be maddening!

So, what are you going to do about the skin cancer on your leg, please?

I got most of the scabs taken off my nose a couple of days ago. The one big one right by my right eye was taken off some, but not all of the way.

I guess that I'll just have to get used to not feeling anything where the skin graft is. Maybe feeling will come back, maybe it won't.

Thanks!

So, what are you going to do about the skin cancer on your leg, please?

I got most of the scabs taken off of my nose a couple of days ago. The one big one right by my right eye was taken off some, but not all of the way.

I guess that I'll just have to get used to not feeling anything where the skin graft is. Maybe feeling will come back, maybe it won't.

Thanks!

Clough, the feeling probably won't come back because they had to remove some nerve endings to get down to the bone. When I had my mastectomy they removed lymph nodes under my right arm. My back is still numb and that was almost 13 years ago.

Originally Posted by Clough
So, what are you going to do about the skin cancer on your leg, please?

I got most of the scabs taken off my nose a couple of days ago. The one big one right by my right eye was taken off some, but not all of the way.

I guess that I'll just have to get used to not feeling anything where the skin graft is. Maybe feeling will come back, maybe it won't.

Thanks!


Clough, the feeling probably won't come back because they had to remove some nerve endings to get down to the bone. When I had my mastectomy they removed lymph nodes under my right arm. My back is still numb and that was almost 13 years ago.

I guess that it's just something to get used to, then. You're a real trouper who has been through so much and someone who is an example for others to follow, J_9!

I guess that it's just something to get used to, then. You're a real trouper who has been through so much and someone who is an example for others to follow, J_9!

Thank you Clough, but in all reality, it's a part of life. We all have our crosses to bear.

I'm going under the knife on the 23rd. I don't imagine it will be bad at all. I'll be able to take myself to the hospital and drive myself home the same day, as long as I don't take any sedatives.

Be patient with your skin graft. And be especially very gentle with it, because you can't feel anything on it and it is thinner, more tender skin than the surrounding area... it could be injured easily.

I'm going under the knife on the 23rd. I don't imagine it will be bad at all. I'll be able to take myself to the hospital and drive myself home the same day, as long as I don't take any sedatives.

Be patient with your skin graft. And be especially very gentle with it, because you can't feel anything on it and it is thinner, more tender skin than the surrounding area.... it could be injured easily.

What time on the 23rd, please?

Thank you for your admonition about the skin graft! There is still a smll, bloody scab near my right eye. They decided not to remove it yet. I have been told that I can get the whole grafted area wet now, though.

I'm going under the knife on the 23rd. I don't imagine it will be bad at all. I'll be able to take myself to the hospital and drive myself home the same day, as long as I don't take any sedatives.

.

Hi this ! Please let us know how you make out with that operation. Good luck !

Tick

1:45 in the afternoon

1:45 in the afternoon

Thank you for letting me know! And, what time zone are you in, please?

Eastern time zone. Today we jumped ahead an hour for daylight savings time. Right now it is 5:06 pm for me.

1:45 in the afternoon

I will be thinking of you ! Yes, I put all my clocks forward at 2am; lest I miss my first clients Monday morning

Tick

1:45 in the afternoon

Well, what happened? How did it go?

Thanks!

The surgeon found 5 more spots of what he says is skin cancer and wants to take them all off at the same time, so I was rescheduled for April 26, 1:00 pm. 2 spots on each leg, and one spot on each arm. Thanks for your concern.

How are you healing up? Are you healed yet? Scabs all gone?

The surgeon found 5 more spots of what he says is skin cancer and wants to take them all off at the same time, so I was rescheduled for April 26, 1:00 pm. 2 spots on each leg, and one spot on each arm. Thanks for your concern.

Hi, this, I hope it works out okay for you. Please keep up posted, okay.

Tick

The best of everything This... prayers for you. :)

Thanks so much for your kindness, everyone!

How are you healing up? Are you healed yet? Scabs all gone?

Scabs are almost all gone. Still have the feeling of tightness and there's some itching.

Trying to not go crazy with the non-feeling in the area. It's a pretty big area.

Thanks!

I know the non-feeling part is maddening. Is the itching part of the healing or is it itching within the non-feeling area, or both? Maybe with time you will get to where you can ignore it, or when its completely healed it'll stop itching.

It itches around it as well as in the non-feeling area. Don't know why I would feel something in the area that apparently doesn't have any nerve endings anymore?

I've got an area on my abdomen that itches sometimes, the area is a no feeling zone left over from my C-sections. It is maddening because since it is numb, I can never satisfy it by scratching. In fact, it would still itch if I dug a hole all the way through the skin. It doesn't bother me so much now, because I'm used to it, but to begin with it nearly drove me mad. You will always have to be extra careful and mindful not to damage the area that is numb because no amount of scratching will stop it, though it could damage the skin. Use something soft, like a dry wash cloth to gently rub around the area being especially careful not to put any tension on your skin surrounding the graft.

I was given some samples of a lotion to put on the area where the skin graft is. Seems to help.

Thank you for your admonitions, though! I'm heeding them!