I’m sorry that you’re having to go through all of this & that your procedure was halted. Maybe it truly was a blessing in disguise. I am like you, in that I know this problem has to be dealt with and with the best treatment.
I hope you can get the lesion on your tongue evaluated.
My lip has diffuse areas of sun damage. I was a lifeguard for many years & we have lived in Florida for 31 years. I have fair skin.
My nephew is a plastic surgeon in NC & told me that Actinic Cheilitis, which is Actinic Keratosis on the lip is challenging to treat. They start with a chemotherapeutic (Fluorocil lip balm in my case), then if that doesn’t work, go to other options. Being a surgeon, he said the “complete shave” of the lower lip has high success rates. He also said that the lips respond well & cosmetic results are good.
I know I’m getting ahead, but he said a biopsy is important to know what I’m dealing with. The main area is right in the middle of my lip where it looks like I bit my lip, but some of my other lip is still inflamed after the chemotherapeutic treatment.
The dermatologist told me to go on a trip that I’ve had planned for quite some time, so I’m going to try to enjoy it & worry about the biopsy when I return.
My lower lip feels dry & chapped all the time & I use Aquaphor & Vaseline to soothe.
I think I have 3 of the 6 usual signs/symptoms for lip cancer:
1. A sore that doesn’t heal
2. Pain in the lip
3. Red patches on the lip
I’m glad there is an oral cancer support group. Being around other people who are going through the same thing can be beneficial to our mental, emotional & spiritual health.

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