On 2/22/2008 amaranth wrote:
Hi....I read several messages about Carac as a treatment for precancerous cells on the lips but I wondered if anyone else might have something to add. I have seen two dermatologists. One is strongly suggesting that I use this and the other staes he agrees that it is an appropriate treatment but that he personally would not do it. Also, the instructions I got with the cream say that you should not use on mouth. Lastly I would like to know how long it takes for the lips to fully heal. Any thoughts you could share would be helpful.
Hi there, Amaranth. I too was prescribed carac for precancer of the lower lip. I would recommend doing the tx, perhaps you have already started. I am on day 13 of 21. I began treatment on February 20, 2008. SCC on the lip can be very aggressive, so please do not ignore the aks. My lip is all stingy (tight feeling) and red and ulcerated now, but using aquaphor really does help. Around day 10 or so, I had trouble sleeping because I would drool at the corners of my mouth (from the swelling, I guess). But I have slept well the last 3 nights! I am drinking w/ a straw most of the time, just so my lips don't have to touch the glass. It's not that painful, it's just easier w/ the straw since the lip is so greasy w/ aquaphor. I have had no trouble eating. I am just sure to cut everything into tiny pieces and bypass the lips. I think we have what Eric Dane from Grey's Anatomy had. Best of luck to you. Please let me know how you are doing.