My Observations and Suggestions:

THEY DON'T JUST CUT THEM OFF!

My treatment was necessary because of early misdiagnosis referred to as "an age spot."

Recommended procedure is to attempt to excise the lesion and obtain one centimeter of clean margins around and under the Melanoma.  On a thin face, that can be difficult. Thankfully the primary melanoma on my cheek was thin and the other nodular melanoma, though ulcerated was not lethally deep.

My surgical oncologist removed both lesions attempting to save my bottom eyelid and preserve as much of my face as possible. The plastic surgeon was able to stretch skin to mostly cover the gaping absence of cheek.  Nerves were cut and even now, 5 years later, numb areas remain. Severed nerves do continue to try and reconnect hence scratching my forehead results in a tingling under my left ear. Although I was told I might have results resembling a stroke victim, I have regained most facial expression.

A 12 man consensus pathology report detailed a unanimous opinion that all margins were free of cancer! If I had been aware of the Sentinel Node Biopsy procedure, I would have questioned the need for it.  Today I would insist on it.

The second surgery to reconstruct was not covered by insurance even though my plastic surgeon fought with underwriters for benefits. That is another of the issues you may face as you become your own case manager. As you proceed with chemotherapy, radiation, CAT scans, MRI's, PET scans, x-rays, blood tests, urinalysis, and other screenings, you will need to be cognizant of your insurer's policies and procedures.  It seems every insurance company has it's own set of accepted procedures and if you or your physician's staff don't adhere to them, you may be left holding the bag on charges. Cost of services is exorbitant.

Remember, I am one of the very lucky ones and consider my current survival somewhat of a miracle. Losing a cheek, dealing with an eye that doesn't quite close and is super sensitive to air and light and missing part of my smile may seem a small offering in exchange for my life. Nevertheless, early accurate diagnosis might have spared me from learning to live with an ever-present shadow of fear..........

"If you have been diagnosed with melanoma, it is important that you have clear, open discussions with your doctor. The treatment plan developed by your doctor depends on the extent of the disease, your age and general health, and other factors..

A team of specialists, such as a dermatologist, surgeon, medical oncologist, and plastic surgeon will most likely treat you.The standard  treatment for melanoma is surgery. In some cases, doctors may also use chemotherapy, biological therapy, or radiation therapy. One treatment method or a combination of treatment methods may be used..

Before starting treatment, you may want a second specialist to review the diagnosis and treatment plan. If it takes a week or two to arrange for this, a short delay will not reduce the chance that treatment will be successful."      Melanoma Research Foundation.

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Disclaimer:  This site was designed as a result of personal experience and is offered for educational purposes only. It is not engaged in rendering medical advice. The information offered here should not be used for diagnosis or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.