BCC Removal

Hi kfs_395

Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. My name is Sherrye and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

I’m sorry to hear that you have a basal cell carcinoma to your lower back but am glad its being removed and I hope the recovery is comfortable and quick for you, especially as you’re going to Turkey 3 weeks later.

Generally after a BCC is removed no long-term follow-up care is needed, but your doctor may want you to have regular check-ups for a time to check the treatment has been successful and the cancer has not come back.

It my be beneficial to arrange an appointment with either your doctor or clinical nurse specialist the week before you are due to travel to check the area is healing well and there are no issues.

Protecting yourself from the sun is even more important after you have had treatment for skin cancer. Here are some suggestions on how to protect your skin and prevent skin cancer.

It’s recommended to use a high sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and re-apply regularly throughout the day. Cover up with cotton or natural fibres and stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm – this may differ and be longer in Turkey.

The NHS website has some useful information on how to care for sunburn if it does happen.

You may find the patient hub on the British Association of Dermatologists website helpful as they also have sun awareness information.

I hope this information helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.

Best wishes,

Sherrye H,

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm), send us an email or contact us through webchat.

Ref SH/HB