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Is Mohs right for 82-year-old healthy woman
Melanoma & Skin Cancer | Last Active: Nov 19 2:07pm | Replies (5)Comment receiving replies
@hearth I’m glad you found us here at Mayo Clinic Connect as it can be frightening and confusing dealing with this diagnosis and treatment. I speak from experience as I went through it myself five years ago in my early 60’s. The melanoma was also on my face - from mid cheek down to top of lip - and also required a flap reconstruction. So even though there’s an age difference, the procedure you’ll be undergoing is quite similar.
I’m not certain age factors into the process, do you have underlying medical conditions you’re concerned about? While I can’t address those, if any, I can tell you my dad who underwent several Mohs through his 99 years and had comorbidities (other medical conditions) did not have any issues with the procedure. However, I would encourage you to discuss any of your concerns with your medical professional so you can feel as comfortable and confident as possible beforehand.
Does this help?
Replies to "@hearth I’m glad you found us here at Mayo Clinic Connect as it can be frightening..."
@grammato3 Hi again,
So glad I found this site! People are so gracious and helpful!!
April
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@grammato3 Dear Susan,
Thank you very much for your reply = I just learned about 2 weeks ago I had melanoma and I spoke with a plastic surgeon last week who outlined two options: go in and take a bit more tissue than what they deem necessary and then the flap surgery
Or the MOHs surgery, which, as you know, is less invasive to the face and still requires flap surgery. I will see a MOHs surgeon tomorrow to get more information - but I think that is the most effective for me.
My health is quite good although I had eye radiation for choroidal melanoma about 5 years ago - the 'freckle' has been inactive for about 5 yrs although I still have bi-yearly MRI, CT, and blood work to assure there are no radical cells that could attack liver or lungs.
I walk my dog every day and had been an active hiker while living in NH 20 yrs ago.
I do plan to discuss if age is a factor for me - but from the bit of literature out there, it seems not to be a real concern. I do have moments of concern but I counter with there is a real solution to the problem I now have.
Thank you so much for your own experiences - your note really helps quell those 'oh-no' moments!
April