Bethenny Frankel to Undergo Skin Cancer Removal Surgery

Bethenny Frankel has confirmed that a growth she discovered on her face has been diagnosed as basal cell carcinoma. The Real Housewives of New York City mom corroborated the diagnosis to PEOPLE.

“I had a growth on my face that was enlarging. I guessed it to be a basal cell carcinoma and had it lanced and removed. The doctor confirmed it is indeed basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer, and says while it is cancer, I am lucky to have it removed — so it won’t affect my overall health," she shared.“I am now scheduled to undergo Mohs surgery to remove the cancer, followed immediately by plastic surgery to remove any scarring."

Bethenny had the growth removed last month, she shared on social media at the time. Following the diagnosis, she calls it a "sharp reminder" to be vigilant about how you protect yourself from the sun. “I am extremely lucky to have caught it in time, and it just goes to show you have to know your body and be very aware of any changes. This was a sharp reminder why it is so important that I religiously wear large hats to cover my face and reapply sunscreen. Always make sure to rub in spray-on sunscreen on your kids — spraying it on by itself doesn’t cover them enough. Apply it thoroughly every two hours and check the expiration dates as sunscreen does expire; and sit in the shade whenever possible," she said. “I love to swim in the ocean and go to the beach, but this is a reminder that the sun is not your friend."

Still, Bethenny isn't letting the diagnosis slow her down. She headed down to Houston on September 9 to meet with those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Bethenny has been devoted to helping victims of Hurricane Harvey through her B Strong charity. “I realized this is the time to raise your hand and help. We’ve raised more than $300,000 in supplies and donations," she said. “I hope this will help these women from feeling helpless. And any surplus goods will be sent to Florida for families affected by Hurricane Irma.”

Bethenny visits with survivors at Dress for Success Houston on Sept. 9, 2017 in Houston.

The RHONY mogul meets with those affected by Hurricane Harvey earlier this month.

Bethenny in Houston on Sept. 9, 2017.

To help those affected by Hurricane Irma go to redcross.org, call 1- 800-RED CROSS or text the word IRMA to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

You can hear more about the charity, below.

Bethenny Frankel on the Challenges that Made Her Want to Help Women