Does a long waiting list for potential skin cancer mean it's less to worry about?

[Someonesayroadtrip]

So, I have this weird mole on my face, it changes shape, colour etc but I've just assumed it was an age spot that changed because my skin is starting to age (I'm 35). Anyway, I mentioned it the the GP at a appointment for a persistent ear infection and he took a photo and sent it off. I've just received a referral from dermatology, it says waiting list is over 26 weeks and they are trying to clear it as quickly as possible.

I assume that means they don't think it could be skin cancer but just checking in case? Or have all waiting lists gone up now? I'm not concerned really, but then also curious as to why they want to see me.

I could probably afford to be seen privately for a consultation, although I have mixed feelings about doing that as it seems wrong in many ways, but I couldn't afford to pay if it was something nasty to carry on paying private.

Just wodnering people's experiences, I realise it's a bit of a post code lottery though.

Small bump

If they had significant concerns you would be brought in under the two week rule and seen within this time, it's highly unlikely that they feel this is anything sinister/potentially but keep a very close eye on it and if you notice any more changes then go straight back and the GP can chase things up/ask for an urgent app.

I had a weird lesion that got damaged and wouldn't heal and got a two week referral from the GP. I went private and had had it removed within a couple of weeks. If you're not being seen by a consultant dermatologist within a couple of weeks I'd suggest that means the GP hasn't flagged it as potentially cancerous or it's something unlikely to spread.

Great. Thanks both, that's what I assumed, I was never concerned but my mum mentioned I should get it looked at but I didn't so just mentioned it in an appointment. GP sent a photo to dermatology and did say if you didn't hear back then it's nothing to worry about so I was surprised by the letter but then the waiting time didn't seem to be for anything urgent. I will just wait and see what they say. Thanks

Most skin cancers are not serious or life threatening, I wouldn't be too worried as they do deal with these things fairly efficiently.

My MIL was born and brought up in Barbados, and is plagued by these tiny skin lesions and cancers now in later life.

You were quite right to mention it to your GP.

OP you can always ask the GP to clarify if you want the reassurance.

Thanks all. I wasn't particularly worried, but I guess that's why I was surprised they wanted to see me. I'm good though, I'll wait and see what they say.