Around 60 percent of people with skin cancer get a recurrence within ten years.
If you’re recovering from a skin cancer removal procedure that needs follow-up treatments, the last thing you want is a relapse. The recovery process is often more difficult after Mohs surgery compared to other removal techniques.
The length and specifics of your recovery will depend on different factors, but techniques, tools, and medications have also greatly improved in recent years.
Here is our guide to the post-Mohs surgery recovery timeline and what you can expect.
Immediate Aftercare
Immediately after Mohs surgery, patients can expect a dressing to be applied to the treated area. This dressing is intended to provide temporary protection from bacterial and viral infection. Regular inspections and bandage replacements may be required during the healing process to ensure the wound is healing properly.
Patients may also be prescribed antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection and pain medications to manage discomfort. Ice packs and topical ointments can also help reduce swelling and discomfort during healing. Those that experience extreme pain, swelling, excessive bleeding, or discharge may require further medical attention.
In most cases, the areas should heal within a few weeks. It is important for patients to follow their surgeon’s instructions carefully and properly care for their wounds to ensure a successful recovery and reduce the risk of scarring.
First Three Days
The recovery timeline of Mohs surgery varies from person to person, but following the surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising, bleeding, and redness or tenderness around the surgical site. Managing your post-op pain is important, and your doctor will advise on the best ways to do this, including over-the-counter medications, ice packs, and rest.
Make sure to check with your doctor before taking any additional medications, such as aspirin, as your doctor will advise if you cannot take them. In the first few days, it is common to experience some pain, tenderness, and swelling, so manage your post-op care effectively and take some time to rest and relax. Follow your doctor’s instructions in order to ensure you make a full and speedy recovery.
One and Two-Week Mark
At the one and two-week mark following Mohs surgery, a patient should expect the wound to be healing, likely with some swelling, redness, and soreness being present. Healing is expected to be progressing well, and the wound will be taking on its final shape.
The bandage may come off around this time, but the wound should be kept clean and moist to help accelerate healing. Pain or discomfort should still be present but, at this point, can typically be managed at home with over-the-counter medications. During this time, the doctor may refer to abstaining from heavy physical activity and not soaking in water.
Subsequent Follow-Ups: When and How to Check-In With Your Doctor
Subsequent follow-ups are usually conducted on a weekly or biweekly basis, depending on the particular wound and healing process. You may also have a wound treatment at Wound Evolution for post-procedure follow-up care or blood tests so that the wound is healing properly.
Adhering to your doctor’s follow-up plan allows them to monitor and track your progress and ensure that healing occurs in a safe and uniform manner.
Mohs Surgery Recovery: What to Expect
It is essential to research recovery expectations to ensure a smooth reconstructive Mohs surgery recovery. Make necessary post-surgery lifestyle adjustments. Consult your doctor on the most appropriate care plan following surgery. You can successfully recover and feel better with proper preparation and guidance! Bookmark our site now and come back for more insights and valuable information!
