Expert Care for Basal Cell Carcinoma on the Nasal Dorsum: A Patient’s Story
At Village Dermatology, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, expert care for patients managing skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Today, we share the story of an 80-year-old male patient who came to our Katy and Memorial Houston offices for Mohs surgery to treat nodular basal cell carcinoma on the nasal dorsum.
Basal Cell Carcinoma: Understanding the Diagnosis
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically appears as a small, flesh-colored bump or a pearly nodule and often develops on sun-exposed areas, such as the face and neck. Nodular basal cell carcinoma, a subtype, is characterized by its rounded growth and potential for local tissue invasion. While BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body, timely treatment is crucial to prevent deeper tissue damage.
For more about basal cell carcinoma, visit our Basal Cell Carcinoma page.
The Patient’s Case: A Personalized Approach to Care
The patient initially presented with a 0.4 cm x 0.4 cm lesion on the nasal dorsum, which was confirmed as nodular basal cell carcinoma through a biopsy. Due to the tumor’s location on the nasal dorsum, an area where tissue conservation is critical, Mohs micrographic surgery was determined to be the most appropriate treatment.
Why Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a precise, tissue-sparing technique that removes the cancerous tissue layer by layer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This method is especially beneficial for high-risk areas like the nose, where maintaining functionality and appearance is essential.
Mohs Surgery: Procedure Overview
The procedure began with a detailed discussion about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of Mohs surgery. After obtaining the patient’s informed consent, Dr. Wang performed the surgery in one stage, removing the tumor completely.
Preoperative Size: 0.4 cm x 0.4 cm
Final Defect Size: 0.7 cm x 0.7 cm
Depth of Defect: Muscle
Frozen section analysis confirmed that all cancerous cells were removed, and the surgical site was carefully repaired using a complex repair technique to minimize scarring and optimize healing.
Postoperative Care and Patient Education
Following the procedure, the patient received detailed postoperative instructions to promote healing and reduce complications:
Keep the area clean and dry.
Apply petrolatum and pressure dressing as directed.
Avoid sun exposure and use broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the healing skin.
For tips on protecting your skin from sun damage, visit our Sun Protection page.
Why Early Detection Matters
Basal cell carcinoma is largely preventable with consistent sun protection and regular dermatologic check-ups. Early detection allows for less invasive treatments and better outcomes.
Expert Skin Cancer Care at Village Dermatology
At Village Dermatology, we specialize in advanced skin cancer treatments, including Mohs surgery, and prioritize patient-centered care. Whether you’re concerned about a new lesion or managing a confirmed diagnosis, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our Basal Cell Carcinoma page or contact us directly.