How long can basal cell carcinoma grow before it gets dangerous?

Answered June 19, 2011 23:22. Why would you wait and watch it get bigger and worry all that time? Basal cell cancers usually grow slowly but are usually locally invasive and need to be completely removed or they return. While their appearance is often described as pearly, in my experience I can often be sure it is a basal cell cancer but never sure it is not one. I would have it taken off by my family doctor or by a dermatologist recognizing that if it is not entirely removed a second surgery to remove the small residual cells on the edges of the incision may be necessary. Do not wait.