Patient Story: Basal Cell Carcinoma on the Side of the Nose Treated with Mohs Surgery

A 78-year-old female patient was diagnosed with a basal cell carcinoma (BCC) on the side of her nose, near the nasal crease—a delicate, highly contoured area where both functional and cosmetic considerations are essential. For this case, Dr. Lance Henry, double board-certified dermatologist and micrographic surgeon, and the most experienced Fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon in the region, recommended Mohs micrographic surgery to ensure complete cancer removal with optimal preservation of skin and structure.

Mohs surgery is particularly well-suited for cancers in areas like the nasal sidewall, where tissue conservation is critical. Its layer-by-layer removal technique allows for full margin control under the microscope while minimizing damage to surrounding skin—important for maintaining nasal shape and symmetry.

After the cancer was cleared, Dr. Henry reconstructed the surgical site with exceptional attention to detail, aligning the repair with natural skin folds to enhance blending. At six weeks post-surgery, the “after” photo shows excellent healing: smooth texture, maintained nasal contour, and minimal visible scarring.

This case underscores the value of Mohs surgery in high-risk facial areas and the importance of having a highly experienced surgeon lead both the removal and reconstruction. The patient healed well and now enjoys full clearance of skin cancer, along with a result that preserves her facial appearance.

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