Skin graft on the nose after BCC removal: what to know

Basal cell carcinoma removal can leave a wound that is better covered than closed directly. A graft uses skin taken from another area, called the donor site, and secured over the nose. Early graft skin may look pale, dark, swollen or uneven as it settles. The nose has a visible, mobile surface, so the final colour and texture can take time to mature.

The graft does not replace cancer follow-up. Your surgeon may need to check both the treated area and nearby skin for healing or further treatment needs.

Keep the dressing exactly as instructed and avoid lifting its edges to inspect the graft. Protect the nose from rubbing, pressure, bending and accidental knocks. Do not apply creams, antiseptics or makeup unless your team has approved them. Keep the donor site clean according to its instructions, because it is also a healing wound.

Attend scheduled reviews so the team can assess graft attachment, dressings and the donor site. After the wound has closed, ask when sun protection and scar care should begin. Options such as Fractional Laser Treatment may be considered later for selected texture or colour concerns, but timing depends on healing.

Contact the surgical team promptly if the graft becomes increasingly painful, foul-smelling, rapidly swollen, persistently bleeding or separates from the wound. Fever, spreading redness, pus or feeling markedly unwell can signal infection. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty or swelling affecting the eye. Do not wait for a routine appointment if the nose changes quickly.

Ask which dressing changes are expected, how to sleep without pressure on the nose, whether medicines should be paused, and when washing, exercise, shaving and sun protection are allowed. Ask how the donor site will be cared for and what changes would suggest the graft needs an earlier review.