Once your Mohs surgery is complete, your attention naturally shifts to healing. You may wonder how the area will look, how sore it will feel, and when you can return to your routine, but following your aftercare instructions can help make recovery easier.
At ProDerm Skin & Surgery in Austin, TX, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sydney Larkin Proffer, MD, MS, FAAD, brings advanced fellowship training in micrographic surgery and extensive dermatologic expertise to Mohs surgery.
What Can You Expect Right After Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is performed under local anesthesia, so the treated area will still feel numb when you leave the office. Once the numbness wears off, you may experience tenderness, swelling, bruising, or minor bleeding.
Depending on the wound, Dr. Proffer may close the area with stitches or recommend another healing method. You will receive specific wound care instructions before going home.
How Should You Care for the Wound?
Good Mohs surgery aftercare helps protect the treatment site as it heals. Your instructions may include:
- Keep the area protected: Follow directions for cleaning, dressing, and covering the wound.
- Limit strenuous activity: Avoid activities that could stretch the wound or increase bleeding until cleared.
- Watch the treatment site: Contact us if you notice changes that concern you.
- Attend follow-up visits: These appointments allow us to check healing and continue monitoring your skin.
How Long Does Mohs Surgery Recovery Take?
Your Mohs surgery recovery time depends on the size, depth, and location of the wound as well as how it was repaired. Many people can return to work the following day, although this depends on the treatment area and the physical demands of your job.
The wound itself will continue healing beyond those first few days. Swelling and bruising should gradually settle, while the scar typically changes as the skin heals.
Support Your Recovery With Expert Care
Recovery is an important part of your skin cancer treatment. Following Dr. Proffer’s instructions and keeping your follow-up appointments can help your skin heal properly while allowing us to monitor your progress.
To learn more about Mohs surgery and recovery, schedule a consultation with ProDerm Skin & Surgery in Austin, TX. Call 512-535-6000 to book your appointment.