Melanoma stage 1

[Nikkicee]

Hi everyone , 

i also appreciate everyone’s time in advance!!!

decemeber 2018 I was diagnosed with stage 1 melanoma  , I have had a wide excision done and told surrounding tissue is clear , in the mean time I had 5 additional moles removed ( all suture worthy) as a precaution all came back negative I have visited a dermatologist at the RPA hospital Sydney and had a thorough body / skin check and been given the all clear for now to just do ongoing skin checks every 6months ,

my question  to anyone else who experienced this , after reading so many other people’s stories and even a person I personally know who had stage 2  had mole mapping , digital photography visits his specialist every  3 months and has now been 2 years all clear ( thank god ! ) is the treatment I have done sufficient ? I can’t help but wounder if it is to spread how will I know ? Should I get a second opinion ? 

Am I over thinking  am I not worrying enough I try and just forget about it and move because the idea of thinking ahead now is so scary .

[Katekat]

Hi @Nikkicee,

I can understand your worries, I actually had one cut out right before Christmas and didn't get the results until after New Year, which did have cells so the whole thing had to come out. 

Have you had a chat with your GP? Perhaps he or she could do some regular checks for you? Mine had a look at some others I was concerned about and he's happy to check me over regularly.

There's also nothing wrong with seeking a second opinion, many people do. I have also considered mole mapping, as I have extremely fair skin and get burnt very easily.

Cheers,

Kate

Online Community Manager