Melanoma Insitu removed, now more biopsies 3 months post op

First melanoma in situ surgery, 36 years ago with subsequent in situ removals with clear margins. Kept up w/annual dermatology inspections and treatments.

@lelandmomof3: Does it help to know you're not alone feeling this way? I've learned that we're part of a group of about 70% of melanoma patients who have reported of anxiety around follow-ups. There's even a term for this - scanxiety, often applied to those of us who need to undergo frequent imaging. In any event, it's normal and not reason for undue alarm, especially for in situ melanoma as there is very little risk for recurrence or metastasis per Melanoma Research Alliance.

I also found this article that shows such fears are universal, as it comes out of Australia: https://melanoma.org.au/news/how-to-cope-with-fear-of-melanoma-returning/

Does that provide some reassurance?

It makes sense to get checked every 6 months. The risk of other pre-cancers
is real. You and your dermatologist are both sensitized to the risks.
You are better off knowing how to prevent problems. Sometimes photos
of spots and affected areas show no change over time and lessen the number of biopsies performed.

Susan, I really appreciate your response. thank you

I too am experiencing multiple melanomas , biopsied after a 6 month check then 3 months later and then again at my next 3 month check, all 0 stage, I feel your worry and relief at the same time. So I would like to hear from others who have gone though this same experience.

@tamartree7 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect - in general and specifically to this forum for those of us who have treated for melanoma. While I myself have had one melanoma excision to date, I've had several basal cell (BCC) and squamous cell excisions. Especially for those of us with multipe skin cancers, frequent skin checks - even as oftern as every 3 months - can be key to early detection. As you have likely been informed, Stage 0 is melanoma in situ, confined to the top layer of skin only and associated with excellent prognosis.

These articles may be helpful: https://www.aimatmelanoma.org/after-treatment/developing-second-melanoma/
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/be-sun-savvy-and-protect-yourself-from-skin-cancer
There is one other consideration you may want to explore with your medical provider that is explained in this article from the Amercian Academy of Dermatology for people who have had 3 or more melanomas that fit into specific categories that are outlined under the recommendations section: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/types/common/melanoma/genetic-testing

Is that something you feel would be helpful to discuss with your doctor?

Hello to you! I started my journey in summer 2025 after finding I had a simple squamous cell carcinoma. Doctor suggested I be scanned, checked every three months. Next visit Dr saw something, the result was I too, was diagnosed with melanoma in situ. It was on my right shoulder, facing forward. Since then I have had 2 more squamous cell carcinomas, on my left arm. I do see the doctor every three months and had some precancerous sights frozen. I do look and keep notes to being to her. So glad I found a great doctor!

I didn't mention, I had 2 biopsies the first time. The doctor informed me that I had two types of skin cancer. One was BCC in situ and melanoma in situ. That was a bit of a shock. Fortunately for me, they were caught early. My doctor warned me, once diagnosed with MC , it's not uncommon for further findings in the future.
I didn't think it would be so soon. Good news, we are very diligent from here on in, check-ups every 3 months .

Do your best to center yourself in peace at this point. I'm considerably older than you (75) and have learned there's no point in running down the road to meet an outcome that isn't even heading your way. Stay strong and don't worry as best you're able. Best luck to you!

@bluelizard I am with you in age, 78, I am an Ovarian Cancer Survivor, been clean since 2018. Disliked the chemo sessions, and Hope I never have to do it again.