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Recently Underwent a Procedure: Seeking Insights

3/26/2025, 6:40:19 AMMale25-34

I’m a 36-year-old woman and today I had a small growth excised. The lesion was found to be 7mm in size, and they performed a punch biopsy that was 10mm in diameter. I’ll have to wait for two weeks to get the results. I’m curious about your thoughts—could this potentially be skin cancer?

MolesDermatologySkin Cancer

Answers (1)

Cony

3/26/2025, 6:40:38 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's completely understandable to have concerns after undergoing a procedure like this, especially when waiting for biopsy results. The possibility of skin cancer can be distressing, but let’s break this down.

Main Points:

  • A 7mm lesion excised and biopsied could be benign or malignant.
  • Size alone does not determine whether it is cancer; many factors are considered.
  • Waiting for the biopsy results is essential for accurate diagnosis.

Explanation:

The size of the lesion you've mentioned (7mm) is one of the factors doctors evaluate when assessing skin growths. Not all growths of this size are cancerous. In fact, many skin lesions are benign, such as dermatofibromas or seborrheic keratoses. The biopsy will provide crucial information about the nature of the growth. It’s valid to feel anxious, but know that the majority of skin lesions turn out to be non-cancerous.

Next Steps:

  1. Stay Calm and Informed: While waiting for results, distract yourself with activities you enjoy. It can help reduce anxiety.

  2. Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any changes such as increased redness, swelling, or pain at the excision site. While minor discomfort can be normal post-surgery, significant changes should prompt you to seek advice from your healthcare provider.

  3. Follow Care Instructions: Adhere to any wound care instructions provided by your doctor to promote healing and prevent infection.

  4. Prepare for Results: Consider writing down any questions or concerns for when you receive your results. Knowing what to ask can help you feel more in control.

  5. Support System: Talk to friends or family about your feelings; it can be comforting to share your experiences.

If you experience significant symptoms such as excessive bleeding, signs of infection, or emotional distress, consider discussing these with your healthcare provider. Remember, the next step is to wait for the results, which will provide clarity on your situation. You’ve taken important steps by having the lesion examined, so continue to be proactive in your care.

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