Advice on Minimizing Scarring from Melanoma Surgery on Ear
I’m a 42-year-old woman, standing at 5’6” and weighing 118 pounds, with fair skin. I do not smoke or consume alcohol. In about a week, I am scheduled for a surgical procedure to excise a melanoma (stage 0) located on the upper part of my ear's helix. My surgeon mentioned that a graft will likely follow the excision, performed through a meticulous Mohs technique. While they expressed a strong focus on the tumor's removal—my primary concern too—they appeared less attentive toward the potential for scarring, which is a significant issue for me since I tend to scar easily. When I inquired about scar reduction strategies, the surgeon’s response was simply that any incision will result in scarring, and they quickly shifted the conversation. This interaction left me with several questions: - The surgeon indicated that a skin graft could be harvested either from my cheek area near the ear or from my neck behind the ear. I have an assumption that the neck location might be less visible? Can I express a preference for this option, considering my tendency to scar? - What can you recommend in terms of bandages or gels suitable for the healing phase on the ear (2-5 weeks post-surgery)? I find it challenging to locate bandages that fit the ear’s unique shape. - What products or techniques would you suggest once the initial healing phase is over to minimize the appearance of scars? Should I approach the donor site differently in terms of care? - Are there any other key topics or concerns I should raise with my surgeon before the operation? For context, I routinely use sunscreen with SPF 50+, wear long sleeves, and frequently don wide-brimmed hats. The dermatologist mentioned that this melanoma likely stemmed from sun exposure during my childhood. At this stage of my life, I’m thankful to have identified it early. Thank you to everyone for your insights!
Answers (1)
8/16/2025, 3:02:27 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you've caught the melanoma early, and your proactive approach to minimizing scarring is commendable. Here’s a structured response tailored to your concerns:
Key Points:
- Site Preference for Grafting: Expressing your preference for the neck graft over the cheek is reasonable due to visibility concerns.
- Post-Surgery Care: Special bandages and silicone gels can help in minimizing scarring during the healing phase.
- Long-Term Scar Management: After initial healing, specific products and practices can further reduce scar appearance.
- Communication with Your Surgeon: It’s essential to discuss your concerns about scarring and any other specific topics before surgery.
Explanation:
-
Skin Graft Location: The choice of graft location can affect the visibility of scars. Scars on the neck may indeed be less noticeable compared to those on the face. You can certainly express your preference to your surgeon. Indicating your concerns about scarring may help them consider this during the procedure.
-
Post-Surgery Bandages and Gels: After surgery, place a hydrocolloid dressing, which conforms well to odd shapes like the ear. These bandages keep the area moist and protect it from irritation. You might also consider silicone sheet products or gels (e.g., silicone gel sheets or gels like Mederma or ScarAway). Apply these once the incisions have closed and scabs have fallen off, typically around 1-2 weeks post-surgery.
-
Scar Management Techniques: After the initial healing phase (2-5 weeks post-surgery), you can start using silicone gel or sheets consistently, massaging the area gently to promote healing. Additionally, during the healing phase, continue using your high SPF sunscreen to protect the area from UV exposure, which can darken scars. Keep the area moisturized with gentle emollients.
-
Discuss with Your Surgeon: Before your surgery, ask the following:
- Clarification about your graft site's visibility and healing outcomes.
- Any specific post-operative care recommendations they have for minimizing scarring.
- If there are additional treatments or therapies they recommend after the healing phase (like laser therapy or steroid injections for pronounced scars).
Next Steps:
- Communicate your graft site preference to your surgeon, highlighting your concerns about scarring.
- Obtain hydrocolloid dressings and have silicone gel products ready for use post-surgery.
- Discuss scar management options and additional concerns with your surgeon prior to the operation.
Your proactive approach to both your melanoma treatment and scar management speaks to your dedication to your health. Stay positive, and remember, proper care and early intervention can significantly enhance healing outcomes!
Related Questions
Understanding Exercise-Related Cramps in Women with an IUD
For the past eight years, I have not experienced menstruation thanks to my IUD, which I have replaced once since its initial insertion. Recently, I took up running, and after engaging in longer or more intense sessions, I find myself experiencing cramps. Thankfully, these cramps are significantly milder than any menstrual discomfort I recall. Occasionally, I also notice some light spotting. I’ve attempted to research this topic, but most articles focus on exercise as a means to halt periods altogether. While I’m not overly concerned, my curiosity has been piqued. A bit about myself: I am a 35-year-old woman, standing at 5'9" and weighing around 11 stone. I consume alcohol infrequently, and when I do partake, I also smoke.
Why Does My Lipoma Persist After Surgical Removal?
As a 16-year-old Caucasian female, I'm not entirely sure of my weight. Recently, I noticed discrepancies on either side of my abdomen. My left side had an obvious fatty mass that resembled a bulge, and upon touching it, I felt it was lumpy. This prompted a visit to my physician who diagnosed it as a lipoma. Thankfully, it was not cancerous, and I underwent surgery to have it excised. However, I still see it there! On the same day of the procedure, I could still make out the outline of the lipoma, but I refrained from feeling it too much to avoid any risk of infection. My mother suggested that it might be swollen. After around ten days, I cautiously examined it again and noticed it felt unchanged. Now, more than three months have passed, and it remains present. Moreover, the discomfort has substantially increased since the operation! I experience sudden, intense, stabbing pains in that area. The pain tends to be sharp and occurs every second for a brief period. Could it be that the lipoma has reformed at an astonishing rate?
M38 - Brief Episode of Sparkling Light in Left Eye for 15 Minutes
Demographics: Male Onset: Approximately 20 minutes prior, with the experience concluding within the last 5 minutes. Symptoms: Briefly observed shimmering lights on the left side of my vision. The larger shapes resembled a reversed 'C', while the smaller flashes were arranged in a 'Z' formation. The event occurred while I was preparing a cleaning paste using baking soda and water, complemented by vinegar for enhanced effectiveness. While I was focused on cleaning the oven racks, an abrupt change in my left eye’s vision occurred, mimicking the appearance of a spark, although I hadn’t actually encountered one. The vivid patterns were shaped like an inverted 'C' and were distinctly jagged in appearance. Regardless of whether my eyes were open or closed, the visual disturbance continued. My sensitivity to light heightened as well; I found that the brightness of my phone's screen was either excessive or insufficient. To alleviate this, I entered my room where the lights were turned off. What did I just experience? This is a novel occurrence for me. Aside from this incident, I feel completely normal and well.
Navigating a Complex Health Journey: From Suspected Autoimmunity to Thyroid Concerns
At 24 years old, I’m facing a challenging health journey compounded by a significant family history of hypothyroidism and lupus, which my grandmother has. It all began over six years ago with my first bout of knee effusion that proved tenacious. Despite various treatment attempts, it only subsided after aspiration and receiving a steroid shot. I’ve lost track, but I believe I’ve experienced this troubling flare-up about five or six times, alternating between my knees. Each episode consistently necessitated similar interventions to stave off immediate recurrence, and interestingly, they tend to arise during the late fall and early winter months. Last March, I underwent arthroscopy on my knee, hoping to find relief. However, my health has unraveled since then. I had never really needed to see a doctor in the past, and my first blood test wasn’t until I turned 18. Since those initial flare-ups, it seems like something new occurs almost monthly — swollen lymph nodes, persistent ear infections, frequent bladder issues causing me to urinate back-to-back without the previous intervals of 3-4 times a day, jaw pain, and random discomfort in my sternum and spine. It’s hard to say if these symptoms are interrelated, but they mark a stark contrast to my previous health. I was diagnosed with Peripheral Ankylosing Spondylitis, yet my rheumatologist suggests this might not be entirely accurate; it’s merely the best interpretation she can offer. Prior to this, I was under treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, but there wasn’t substantial evidence for this diagnosis aside from my recurrent flare-ups and synovial fluid complications in my knee. I’ve only once tested positive for ANA, and I don’t have ongoing issues with smaller joints, with my routine knee effusion being an annual event paired with intermittent issues throughout the year. In May, I began MTX injections, but the only noticeable change has been an increase in fatigue, which I already struggled with. My illness lingers longer, and I now encounter several new problems each month. Despite experiencing this, my rheumatologist encourages me to stay the course with my treatment. Additionally, Hashimoto's has been a consideration among doctors, though my thyroid function tests have remained within the normal limits — not elevated, but also not low enough to necessitate treatment. Frequent swelling of my lymph nodes has been noted and documented in multiple ultrasounds. After a month of starting MTX, I developed a notable goiter that is persistently growing. Unfortunately, finding accessible endocrinology services in my area is extremely challenging, as there are no new patient openings. A technician from my latest ultrasound reassured me that, despite its size, the goiter appears benign. A subsequent radioactive scan indicated that my left thyroid was entirely “cold,” leading to recommendations for a partial thyroidectomy due to potential malignancy concerns. Living in my current location restricts my ability to advocate for my health effectively, as the medical system seems to operate on a narrow focus. I endured two years of hardship just to secure an appointment with a rheumatologist, even with an officially translated document confirming my diagnosis from the US. There appears to be a communication gap between my healthcare providers, as none are fully informed about my history or ongoing issues, leading me to believe there’s a broader systemic problem that’s only being addressed in fragments. Given this context, what conclusions can be drawn about my situation? What steps should I consider moving forward, and what types of care could be beneficial for me?
Looking for Guidance for My Partner Facing Autoimmune Challenges
Hello everyone. I'm reaching out in hopes of gaining some insights regarding my partner, who identifies as a trans man (29 AFAB) and is currently grappling with what appears to be a serious autoimmune disorder, which has rapidly diminished his quality of life. **Symptoms Experienced:** - Severe exhaustion, notably when unwell - Inflammation and pain in joints, particularly the hands and wrists - Muscular weakness - Difficulty breathing - Unintended weight loss and reduced appetite - Cognitive fog - Tingling and numbness in fingers - Blood pooling issues - Joint hypermobility - Frequent episodes of diarrhea - Nighttime sweating **Medical Background:** - Diagnosed conditions: Bipolar disorder, ADHD, CPTSD - Underwent an appendectomy in 2016 - Previous SVT related to possible hyperestrogen; resolved upon beginning HRT - OSA with adherence to CPAP therapy **Current Medications:** - 100 mg of testosterone administered intramuscularly weekly - 100 mg of Lamictal taken twice daily - 150 mg of Wellbutrin each day - 15 mg of Prednisone daily - Daily Zyrtec **Our Journey:** My partner has a history of quickly succumbing to illness. This situation escalated dramatically in January when he contracted influenza A. His lethargy became so severe that I had to rush him to the ER; he was sleeping for over 20 hours a day and struggled to wake up for nourishment. As a registered nurse, witnessing this was extremely troubling. In the hospital, lab tests indicated elevated liver enzymes, but not high enough for admission. They discharged him with steroids that eventually helped restore some energy, after weeks of recovery. Sadly, just a month later, his health took another downturn, resulting in worse exhaustion and excessive sleeping. During our visit to the emergency department, he was so unresponsive that he required shaking to be roused by medical staff. After receiving fluids and steroids, they decided to send him home, citing that, although his condition was concerning, they couldn't justify a hospital stay. This spring marked a positive change with his promotion at work to a physically demanding position, an opportunity he was excited about given his athletic build. However, joint pain soon started to hinder his performance. While soaking in Epsom salts provided brief relief, I managed to persuade him to consult with his primary care physician. The doctor diagnosed him with hypermobility and noted wheezing, expressing concerns about potential autoimmune issues due to recurrent and severe health challenges. A positive ANA test led to a referral to a rheumatologist. In the interim of waiting for that appointment, my partner’s condition deteriorated significantly. He began to feel breathless after simple activities, like brushing his teeth or showering. His muscle strength declined drastically to the point where he mentioned that simply breathing felt exhausting, necessitating breaks in between. Sadly, he has been unable to work for several months. Additionally, he experiences excessive nighttime sweating leading to daily laundry, and he often awakens with fingers that feel numb and uncontrollable. After calling the rheumatologist’s office, we managed to secure an earlier appointment. They conducted numerous tests, with most results coming back normal. His only concerning result was high vitamin D. The rheumatologist prescribed a short course of Prednisone but appeared uncertain about the direction to take next. Given my nursing background, I am becoming concerned about conditions like myasthenia gravis, MS, or others. What steps should we consider moving forward? **Abnormal Lab Findings:** - ANA: Positive (rheumatologist deemed it solidly abnormal) - dsDNA: 191 (Positive) - Total testosterone: 136 (high, yet acceptable according to his endocrinologist) - Vitamin D: 90.4 (high abnormal) **Normal/Ruled Out Tests:** - Sed rate: 1 - CRP: <3 - Rheumatoid factor: negative - Pulmonary function test: no asthma - HIV 1 and 2: negative - TB: negative - TSH: 0.9 - Hep C: nonreactive - X-rays of hands, shoulders, hips: no inflammation detected - CK: 57 - C3: 139 - C4: 26 - Urine protein: 9.8 - Urine creatinine: 170.8 - Protein creatinine ratio: 0.06 - CBC and CMP both normal Apologies for the lengthy message!