I was diagnosed with hemangiopericytoma brain cancer in April 2014. Four months earlier, I had noticed a large "bump" on top of my head, just above the right side of my forehead (just inside the hairline). Because it is so rare for a brain tumor to present in that manner, my internist thought it was a Lipoma or cyst that formed on top of my head and not inside the brain. But, after four months and the "bump" was growing larger, I went to my dermatologist. She attempted to do a biopsy, just to be sure what this thing was on my head. The "bump" was so hard, she was unable to get the biopsy needle in far enough for a good biopsy. She sent me to a Moh's surgeon to have this thing looked at. The Moh's surgeon was Dr. Bruce Nelson. Just prior to Dr. Nelson coming into the examination room to see me, there was a knock on the door and it was the nurse bringing a copy of the biopsy report that had just come in. The biopsy report stated that the bump was a "Lipoma". No problem! A few minutes later, Dr. Nelson came into the room and looked at the bump on my head and at the biopsy report. He said "This biopsy report is wrong. I don't know what this bump on your head is, but I do know it is not a Lipoma. I will not touch it until I see an X Ray showing that this bump is only on top of your head and NOT inside the brain, in which case you will need to see a neurosurgeon ." So, I got an X Ray and yes, it was inside the brain. The Hemangiopericytoma tumor went through the bone just inside the scalp. It was one inch long and one & three quarters inches wide. A few days later, an MRI showed the tumor started in the Superior Blood Vein beneath the bone, apparently, in the lining of the Superior Blood Vein. I was very fortunate, that this tumor grew up and out of my head, and not down into the brain. I was sent to a neurosurgeon at Houston Methodist, who told me that Dr. Bruce Nelson may well have saved my life by not believing the incorrect biopsy and attempting to remove the supposed "Lipoma". My neurosurgeon said he had witnessed several doctors who did attempt to remove what they thought were either Cysts or Lipoma's growing on top of the head, only to realize too late that they were actually formed inside the brain. Then, the doctors immediately call for a neurosurgeon to come and stop the bleeding before the patient bleeds to death. You just have to hope the neurosurgeon gets there in time and is able to stop the bleeding, etc. Thanks to Dr. Nelson, I avoided that scenario! In April 2014, I had brain surgery and then, radiation. So far, I am still "good"! And this is March 2018. I can't say enough good things about Dr. Nelson! This doctor helped save my life! read more

Dr. Bruce Nelson has been my dermatology surgeon for about five years. I trust him implicitly. He is a caring and talented physician, always polite and professional. He has always patiently answered all the questions that my wife and I have had. His staff is well trained, knowledgeable, and helpful. I highly recommend Dr. Bruce Nelson for the following reasons. My treatment has involved several complicated surgeries, as well as some minor issues, all handled beautifully and with great care. One complicated surgery involved the successful removal of a large ruptured cyst and resultant scar tissue from the back of my neck. (The location was a dangerous one due to the presence of nerves and blood vessels.) Today, I have no scar or adverse effects, and you cannot even tell that I had that operation. At the time of that surgery, my blood pressure was very high. Dr. Nelson did not simply tell me that I should get treatment. He kindly and generously took the time out of his busy schedule to sit down with me for 20 minutes to explain the health problems that untreated high blood pressure could cause. He did so in a concerned, professional, and caring manner. Thanks to Dr. Nelson, I sought medical attention for my blood pressure. His advice probably saved my life or, at the very least, prevented serious medical problems. Another complicated surgery was the removal of a sizable "lump" from one of my legs. It turned out to be cancerous. Dr. Nelson spoke to me very kindly. He acted to make sure I was treated as quickly as possible and sought out the oncologist that he thought could best treat me. Dr. Nelson personally took my file to that doctor's office to discuss my case. However, Dr. Nelson's caring involvement did not end there. He continued to actively follow my case and recommended and made sure that I had follow-up treatment and further surgery by a leading surgeon at MD Anderson. I might add that every doctor with whom I came in contact during the treatment of my cancer stated that Dr. Nelson really cares about his patients. Of course I already knew this from my personal experience. read more

OK. Now I am ready to do my review. I went to the dermatologist in January for a spot on the side of my face that was bleeding. I couldn't even see it. The biopsy showed cancer, so I was referred to Dr. Bruce Nelson for the MOHS procedure. My consultation was canceled because of the ice and freeze. I was retiring at a the end of January, so I had to have everything completed asap for insurance purposes. I arrived early Saturday morning and was taken in right away. It was my first time to meet any of the staff. Everyone was very personable and professional. Dr. Nelson introduced himself as Bruce. I was familiar with MOHS because I was with my father during his procedures, so I knew what to expect. What I did not expect was that this thing on my face that I could not see ended up being the size of a nickel with a 3-inch incision. I thought I would have a one cutting procedure and be out. It took two cuttings. Bruce stitched up the inside, then 12 stitches outside. He explained everything during the whole process. At one point during the stitching, he commended he didn't like how it looked and he was going to fix it. I got a little nervous and asked if I might need to see a plastic surgeon after. He assured me I did not. The first thing I did when I got home was google Dr. Bruce Nelson. I saw lots of reviews about his professionalism, but what I didn't see was what people thought about the results. Yes, you can see the incision line, but it is thinner than I expected and will probably fade with time. Bruce also said he could "polish it with diamonds" once everything healed if we weren't both satisfied with how it looked. I also found out that he IS a plastic surgeon. I can now say that I recommend Dr. Bruce Nelson and his staff for not just their professionalism, but also for the great results I have. read more

I was diagnosed with skin cancer in January 2016 and over the next several months went to several different surgeons in getting opinions for Mohs surgery. I was referred to Dr. Nelson by 2 close friends, who had both been to him for surgery. One is a friend and member at Second Baptist Church and someone I see most days when exercising, and the other was referred to Dr. Bruce Nelson by her father who is a doctor at Methodist Hospital. So with both of them speaking very highly of Dr. Nelson I made my appointment and off I went, nervous as can be. He was professional, spent a great deal of time with me until I understood all aspects of what I needed. His staff was kind and professional. They were so compassionate to my situation. I was made to feel comfortable during a time when I was scared to death, as my cancer was a Stage II, Squamous Cell Carcinoma on my nose and required immediate attention. I could not begin to tell you how fortunate I felt to have found Dr. Nelson, he was professional yet kind, spoke the truth to me, yet did not scare me, and at the end of the day, I felt 1000% lucky to have had him as my surgeon. My wife and I had questions and he took the time to answer all of them. He even gave me his home phone number if I needed anything or had any questions! If you are facing Mohs surgery and you want one of the best doctors in the world, I cannot recommend this man enough, I was very blessed to have been cut on by him, and the incredible way his entire staff addressed the matter. Thank you Dr. Bruce Nelson!! Greg M. read more

My husband had MOHS surgery with Dr. Bruce Nelson in July. We arrived at 7:00 am, he was taken back to begin the procedure. About 30 minutes later, a nurse escorted me to a room with 2 huge, fluffy recliners covered with sheets and blankets, and a couple of other chairs. A table was by the recliner. Dr. Nelson came into the room, told me to back up to one of the recliners, and to jump into the recliner. When I jumped in, sinking completely, like pillows surrounding me, Dr Nelson instructed the nurse to lift my feet. She did. Dr. Nelson then brought a pillow and tucked it behind and under my head. He asked me if I was comfortable. I answered, yes..Then he walked to the door, flipped off the light and said, "Go to sleep, if you want." i was sitting there with my mouth, hanging open in unbelief! If the surgeon was treating me with such kindness and care, I knew my man was in good hands. My husband's surgery went wonderfully. His recovery and healing was perfect. Dr. Nelson called the evening of the procedure. Gary was sleeping, so I answered his phone. He asked how he was doing and I said, "Sleeping". He said, "Good, let him, and call me if you have any concerns or questions." He and his staff are professional, compassionate and caring. I would not trust any other doctor to care for us. read more

I have been a patient of Bruce Nelson, M.D. for the past 5 years for both Mohs micrographic surgery and general dermatology. In both arenas Dr. Nelson has performed with utmost skill, demonstrating superior knowledge of dermatological disorders including skin cancers. My first Mohs surgery was on my forehead requiring careful, tedious surgery to remove the carcinoma and prevent scaring. I was referred to Dr. Nelson by my regular dermatologist. The outcome of the surgery was excellent, no scar despite the deep incision in my forehead, and most importantly no recurrence of the carcinoma. The second surgery (just recent) on my chest was also performed with utmost surgical skill, and attentive nursing. Dr. Nelson's nurses are extremely knowledgeable, show great attention to detail and are compassionate. I felt very comfortable during the several stages of surgery and in the aftercare follow-up. The administrative office runs efficiently and with precision. I have first-hand knowledge of medical services having worked in the health care field for over thirty years including hospital emergency services. Dr. Nelson is a terrific dermatologist and surgeon. He has a great team of skilled nurses, courteous administrative staff, and provides a level of excellence in patient care. read more

Dr. Bruce Nelson is a treasure & I'm so glad I found him. He not only is extraordinary in his treatment but also excels at being approachable & patient friendly. He has a gift for making you feel comfortable when examining you. He will actually talk to you, is self-deprecating & always makes me laugh. Growing up in New Mexico, I've been prone to skin cancers. Several of them have been on my face & I was terrified of ugly scars. This wasn't unfounded as I'd gone to another dermatologist for a skin cancer on my arm & ended up looking like Frankenstein. People can't even tell that I have scars unless I show them & they are up close to the scar without any cosmetics on it. Not only does he protect your looks but his procedure, aided by his own in-office lab, is to take as little of the affected area as possible. He will excise the area he thinks should be. Then he tests for any remaining cancer cells &, if needed, will keep taking a little more until he's sure all the cancer is gone. He tests after each removal & ends up taking the maximum area to remove the cancer but the minimum for scarring. I highly recommend Dr. Nelson as a dermatologist. read more

I have been to at least 20 doctors in the last 13 years for cancer related problems,from minor & major skin cancer to near death major cancer surgerys.i have had some of the best cancer doctors & some not so great. At dr nelsons office you never feel like a number. He is the most caring gentle dr I have ever been to in my life. I have referred many of my friends to see dr nelson because of the pain you always have to go through with any kind surgery.He is so concerned about your feelings he takes the time to make sure you don't even feel the shot before sugery. I have never had to wait over 10 min to see him for any surgery.Also he only asks to please call if you are going to be late for appointment because there are so many people that never call to let him know if you are going to be late or not even going to come at all.They have to know if your going to be late so they wont keep any other patients waiting.He & his office staff will work with you any way they can to help with appontments.I recommend his services over any dr in Houston for piece of mind & kindness & caring for your cancer needs read more

Dr. Nelson and his staff are the most caring, empathic and patient-friendly team I have ever encountered in the medical community. I had a Mohs surgery behind my knee and never had any idea how difficult that this area is to heal and care for. I do have to say, he warned me of this at the time of surgery! Seems whatever could go wrong did. THIS WAS NOT DUE TO DR. NELSON OR HIS STAFF, but was due to the location of my incision, it becoming infected and then having an allergic reaction to the steri-strip bandage. Dr. Nelson had given me his personal cell phone number by calling me on the afternoon after surgery to make sure I was doing okay. He encouraged me to reach out to him if needed. Well, with all of the above issues I encountered, through the month-long process of this healing process, I contacted him ALOT! He always responded and gave me encouragement and steps to take to assist in the healing process. I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Nelson and his staff! I wish the world was as kind and friendly as his office is. Thank you. read more

At 78, I want to thank my skin doctor, Dr. Bruce Nelson and his excellent staff at the Dermatologic Surgery Center of Houston (713) 981-6222 in SW Houston, for another beautiful, professional visit. Over about the past 10 years, I've been a patient of Dr. Nelson on possibly 15-20 or so occasions, getting their help staying ahead of persistent skin cancer (squamous, basal). I've had a variety of skin spots on my head sliced, diced, poked, prodded, and had potholes after removing cancer sewn back together; recently my forehead was stretched and all my wrinkles at 78 disappeared - only for a few days. Despite that, I have always been treated with great professionalism, kindness, humor, and good advice. (Trust me, when they say use ice to avoid black eyes, they know what they are doing. My second icing went better than my first, thinking I knew better.) He was an outstandingly well-trained and efficient staff. My follow-ups have been great. To paraphrase the Terminator, 'I'll be back'. Mac Miller, El Campo, Tx read more

I strongly feel people are more apt to write a bad review when they have a bad experience versus when they are a happy patient. Dr Nelson does not deserve this. This is the reason for my review. It is really hard to find a good doctor. If you are looking for a Doctor who comes in, has the personality of a robot, and runs through the motions without any conversation then he is not for you. If you are looking for a Doctor who is personable, speaks in Layman's terms, and genuinely shows he cares then Dr. Nelson is for you. He is thorough, honest, and is good at what he does. I highly recommend him and so does my primary Doctor, Dr Goff, who I absolutely adore. His staff is also very nice and accommodates you with free parking. Not many offices are that giving. Long waits happen when you have a Doctor who is thorough. If you don't like waiting then do your part and schedule your appointment early. Their office opens at 7am. How many offices have staff who are that dedicated to be available at those hours? read more

I was referred to Dr. Nelson in 2007 for MOHS surgery to treat my DFSP, a rare skin cancer. Dr. Nelson immediately put me at ease by telling me exactly what it was and what to expect during surgery. Because of the nature and large area affected by my cancer, the surgery took some time. Dr. Nelson and his staff made sure I was as comfortable as possible during the procedure. I see him every six months to make sure I am still cancer free. He has also gone out of his way to refer me to other excellent physicians for treatment of medical conditions not skin related. He and his staff have always treated me and my wife with warmth, professionalism and kindness. He also shows an interest in my work, which we discuss during each visit. I recommend Dr. Nelson without hesitation for his skill, knowledge, professionalism and warm bed-side manner. read more

I recently saw Dr. Bruce Nelson in his office after having a normal biopsy report come back from a visit with another Dermatologist. I knew I needed another opinion. My lip problem was not normal to say the least. I instantly liked Dr. Nelson's because when he walked into the room he greeted me and spoke to me like he had always known me. A real real pleasant Dr. Very knowledgeable in his field and very assuring that we will get to the bottom of the problem. And he did! 2 days and we had results from the biopsy he did. He knew exactly how he wanted to deal with it and what I would need to do. No messing around. I was made to feel like I was the most important patient of his day. Dr. Nelsons office staff and nurses were wonderful as well. I strongly recommend this Dr. for anyone in need of Dermatological Surgeon. He is fabulous! read more

I am a patient of Dr. Nelson. I have been seeing him for the past couple of years due to my multiple issues with skin cancer. Dr. Nelson has always demonstrated his understanding of my Basel cell cancers and has explained each procedure he employed, the results of the surgeries, the care needed and any expectation of pain or complications that I may encounter. Unexpectedly, Dr. Nelson personally called me at home those evenings to check on my condition. He ensured me that if I needed any help with any problems to call him immediately. He even provided his personal cell phone number. Dr. Nelson, his nurses and his entire staff have always shown a high level of professionalism, patient care and are super nice people. I would recommend Dr. Nelson to any patient who has problems with skin cancers. read more

Dr. Nelson is such a good doctor that I am truly astonished to see these poor reviews of him. He is very experienced and knowledgeable. He did my surgery calmly, efficiently and professionally, quickly...and in a very relaxed and caring manner. He really knows what he's doing and isn't that the main thing to ask of a doctor? His staff were nothing but friendly and helpful. I had no pain and a great result. What more could anyone ask? Yes, he's a character, but someone in need of medical help ought to be concentrating on the results, the outcome, not on petty personality conflicts. I thought he was fun and that he made the whole experience more pleasant and less scary for me. His work...less scarring after a procedure, wounds that heal well...speaks for itself. Thank you, Dr. Nelson! read more

I have just returned from having my second skin cancer surgically removed by Dr. Nelson. I was referred to him by my dermatologist on both occasions. His staff is caring, efficient, competent, and friendly. Dr. Nelson is a skilled surgeon with a charming personality that puts his patients at ease in what is or can be a stressful situation. I quickly became convinced that he truly cared about me and my situation. He carefully explained my diagnosis, the procedure he was about to perform, and the outcome I could expect. Every measure was taken to insure that I was pain free during and after the procedure. The first surgery a few years ago was successful due to Dr. Nelson's skill and competence. I was very comfortable placing myself in his capable hands again today. read more

I want to report that my experience with Dr. Nelson and his staff at Dermatologic Surgery Center was very positive. I found the staff, caring, professional, and efficient. Dr. Nelson was supportive and very concerned about my welfare. He even called to check on me! I read the previous reviews and must say I didn't find anything in my visit that paralleled any of the negative comments. If there were issues, it appeared to me these have been addressed. Going in for cancer surgery is very unnerving - if you have had to undergo it, you know what I am talking about. But In contrast to my concerns about the disease, I was never nervous about the choice I had made for the group that was to help me with the surgery. Cindy W. read more

Since 1990, I have had 15 plus successful mole operations for basal cell carcinoma cancer all performed by Dr. Nelson. They were handled so skillfully that it was never necessary for a plastic surgeon to be involved. Without a doubt DR. Nelson saved my life and I believe he is the greatest dermatology surgeon alive. His entire office, including Dr. Nelson were completely professional, competent, caring, polite, and punctual. Everything a patient could ask for. They all knew what was necessary and did the needful. I should add that he continued to follow-up after each operation to ensure I recovered quickly. If you have any questions about the doctor or his staff, I can be reached at 281-658-8730 to ease your concerns. read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Bruce R. Nelson for over 25 years. Due to a fair complexion I have had mutiple Mohs procedures, performed by Dr. Nelson. The bulk of my Mohs procedures were done in my facial area, with few noticable scars. This was not an accident, but due to the amazing skills of Dr. Nelson. I've had at least 7-9 procedures, and I would challenge you to find the scars. Bruce has become my friend, not because of all the years he's put me back together, but because he cares. I'll be 70 years old in November, and most would believe I am in my fifties. If you are challenged with skin cancer, stop thinking about who to call. Call Dr. Nelson's office, you'll be glad you did. Rick Mosher 832-256-8980 read more