Hello,
I’m reaching out because I’m feeling quite anxious about a recent dermatology appointment. About four weeks ago, I had some photos taken of a facial mole, which was sent to my consultant. After reviewing the photos, the consultant advised that I come in for a face-to-face appointment as it might be a Solar Lentigo, but they also want to rule out Lentigo Maligna.
I saw the consultant a couple of days ago, and she mentioned that the mole is a bit irregular with some darker spots, so she recommends it be removed. She also mentioned I would likely have a scar about 9mm in size after the procedure. The mole is only 3mm in size, I was expecting her to say it’s ok so it was a shock and I am now really worried, and I can’t help but think the worst.
I’m feeling overwhelmed and anxious, especially with everything that’s been going on in my life recently. I lost my dad to dementia earlier this year, and I’m still dealing with the emotional impact of that. I’ve also been under treatment for a wrist injury I sustained seven months ago, so it feels like one thing after another.
I asked to have the procedure done at a different hospital, as I’m still under consultant care for my wrist, and I’m now waiting for that appointment which should be in 2 weeks but haven’t heard anymore. But in the meantime, I can’t stop worrying and keep imagining the worst. I’m 55, and I know it’s important to stay positive, but I’m really struggling to manage the anxiety, especially with Christmas coming up.
Has anyone else had a similar experience with facial mole removal or dealing with anxiety? How did you cope with the uncertainty and fear? Any advice would be really appreciated. I’m struggling to sleep.
Thank you.
Hi Smilexxx and a very warm welcome to the online community which I hope you'll find is both an informative and supportive place to be.
I’m Anne, one of the Community Champions here on the Online Community, and I was diagnosed with melanoma 8 years ago.
It's natural to worry when your consultant says that they want to remove a mole as they're not sure if it's benign or not. Unfortunately removing it, and sending it off for a biopsy is the only way that they can find out what it is. I've had 2 moles removed, one was melanoma and the other was an atypical mole (so not cancerous).
The online community is divided into different support groups so I'm going to recommend that you join us over in the melanoma group, which is a great place to ask questions, share experiences and get support.
To join, just click on the link I've created and, once you've joined, you can start a new post in the same way as you did here and join in with existing conversations by clicking on 'reply'.
I'll keep an eye out for you over there.
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
