When it comes to planning for your Mohs micrographic surgery, the recovery is just as important as the actual procedure for ensuring optimal results. To help you prepare for your post-operative healing, our board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, Dr. Adam Mamelak, provides a look at what you can expect during the recovery period.
Once your skin cancer has been effectively removed during Mohs surgery, you may need a reconstructive procedure, which can typically be performed right after the initial surgery. If you have had a more complex Mohs surgery, however, your surgeon may need an extra day or more to effectively plan for your reconstruction. Dr. Mamelak discusses this process with each patient in detail before their Mohs surgery.
After your Mohs surgery and potential reconstructive procedure, you will be provided with post-operative care instructions. These are customized to your treatment plan and can help you experience a safe and smooth recovery. Key instructions in this guide include the following:
- Bandage wound after Mohs surgery and change this daily
- Ensure that the surgical site stays moist
- Avoid smoking, as this can impede healing
In some cases, Dr. Mamelak recommends patients wear a silicone bandage or vitamin E-infused bandage. Both of these specialized dressings can help reduce the appearance of scarring.
The complexity of Mohs surgery can greatly vary based on the extent of each patient’s needs, and as a result, your post-operative directions and rate of healing will be unique to your case. Despite whether you have undergone an extensive procedure or only need a few stitches for a small area, remember you are still recovering from surgery and need adequate rest as your body heals. Avoid strenuous activities until your surgeon advises they are safe to resume. Most patients can return to work soon after their surgery if their tasks are not physically demanding.
After you have completed the initial recovery from Mohs surgery, you will need to apply sunscreen to your scar on a regular basis. This helps protect the area and avoid darkening of the scar over time due to sun exposure.
If you have more questions about Mohs recovery, feel free to browse through Dr. Mamelak’s other blog posts, or contact us to schedule an appointment.
