[foreverromantic]

Recently I went to a local Dermatologist who looked at a very tiny dark pin mark spot on my left cheek. Pathology report came back with a positive diagnosis of Basal Cell Carcinoma, skin cancer.
That tiny spot has been there on my left cheek for at least five years.
They all claim I need to have it removed.
The method they suggest is MOHS surgery.
I do not want to have any scar or marks thereafter; so dermatologist says "they send everyone to a local plastic surgeon to "finish up".
I am very skeptical about having this done at all.
They all claim the spot has "roots" and may spread to nearing cells.
I read on the internet it takes DECADES for this spot to even appear.
Have not been in sun since 1985 that I can remember, BUT live in Florida.
Please advise.
Thanks

[ma0641]

Basal cells do not typically metastasize to something worse. It shouldn’t be taken lightly, though, it can be disfiguring if not treated promptly. In itself it may become much more visible and, if it grows, would possibly require more invasive surgery. I think I would put personal appearance behind potential future health issues.

[joypulv]

"I read on the internet it takes DECADES for this spot to even appear.
Have not been in sun since 1985 that I can remember, BUT live in Florida."

That's not really relevant. It sounds like you doubt the doctor. I wouldn't, and I'm a big doubter (and in a family with all kinds of skin cancer). If you want to wait on plastic surgery, do so.
The doctor won't know how deep or wide the excision has to be, because each layer is tested as it goes, when using MOHS.

[DoulaLC]

I'm not understanding why it matters how long it may or may not take to show up. The point is you have it now, so best to have it taken care of. It is common practice to have a plastic surgeon take care of the final steps when dealing with cancer on the face. It's your best bet at having it done well.

[teacherjenn4]

Get a second opinion, but do it quickly. My dermatologist reminds me that although I stay out of the sun, driving in an automobile causes sun exposure. So, however you decide to choose your dermatologist, have the carcinoma removed as soon as possible.