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Squamous Cell Cancer Upper Lip and Philtrum
Melanoma & Skin Cancer | Last Active: 3 days ago | Replies (24)Comment receiving replies
@moorjan3: There are various types of sutures, for instance vicryl, monocryl or fast-absorbing - although the latter are generally not used in the lip area due to a weaker hold. The type of suture is based on provider preference generally based upon past experience. However, it is true that most of the actual holding power in the former two lose their strength after the first month although the actual thread can take longer to completely disappear - hence, the longer "recovery" time for complete absorption. For some people, it may be a shorter duration and for others longer - though one may not even be aware of this process. My background is in nursing so I tend to look at it from that perspective and it's not meant to be confusing, apologies if it added to your distress!
Kenalog could certainly be a good option as it sounds like you're doing everything you can to ease the discomfort. What this corticosteroid could do if you don't relieve the discomfort is essentially target the collegen to break down scar formation that may be contributing to the problems you're reporting.
Can you report back next week as to your progress?
Replies to "@moorjan3: There are various types of sutures, for instance vicryl, monocryl or fast-absorbing - although the..."
@grammato3
Regarding sutures. I had SCC removed (MOHS) from left hand. The surgeon wanted to use self absorbing sutures that did not need to be removed. I had some real issues with the suture line separating and long time healing.
I went into office for surgery check up and said what I was seeing and experiencing was normal. But then she saw a suspicious area about an inch from the sutures. She did a biopsy and came back SCC. So this time (MOHS) surgery she used the old type sutures that have to be removed. It healed so much faster but did need to have them removed. I did not get any separation along suture line like I did with self absorbing stiches.
I did though have a more profound scar and I think reason why did self absorbing ones first time. This timed she said wanted to eliminate the issues I had originally sutures. Yes I have a scar but I am 79 with some many skin spots, age spots, and everything in-between don't even notice.
@grammato3
This week I saw both my MOHS surgeon and an ENT plastic surgeon. My discomfort level remains very high. My nostril is pulled on constantly and is irritated and swollen. My left philtrum is also irritated and rope-like as that is next to the straight line stitch that was done from my left nostril to the bottom of the upper left lip. I have asymmetry. My mouth pulls the left more so in movement. The left side of my lip will not move up and down with the right when I speak. Both Drs. really cannot offer any additional solutions other than giving more time. It has been 8 weeks today since my surgery date and I am really frustrated with the level of discomfort and my appearance. They say it can take 6 months to a year. I cannot think about tolerating my nostril being pulled on for a year and this level of discomfort. It is very hard emotionally and physically. I am not sure what else to do or where to turn to for some comfort and a solution to my issues. Is it common at 8 weeks to have all this tightness and pulling still. There are some concerns in using the Kenalog that it may cause atrophy and depression especially in this area philtrum and lip, so they held on that for now. What else can I do or seek out to try to get comfort.
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@grammato3 yes I will report back and thank you. Any information is helpful and I appreciate the insight.