As we all know that Mohs surgery is an effective procedure for treating several types of skin cancers. Also the procedure is effective to limit the amount of healthy tissue and skin removed that is particularly helpful to people who should remove the cancer in a cosmetic way on the important parts of body like face or neck. This procedure offers highest rate of cure for people having squamous cell carcinoma. The surgery is also recommended for several skin cancers that need highest cure rate while leaving as much healthy tissue as possible. When compared with several standard techniques, it is less common to reoccur the cancer.
Mohs surgery is an outpatient procedure that can be performed in a doctor’s office or clinic. A layer of the skin is removed to test it for the existence of skin cancer. If the cancer is no longer exists, reconstructive procedure is performed in order to repair the tissues. Still if the cancer exists, another layer of the skin is removed and method is repeated till the cancer is totally removed.
Mohs surgery is most commonly recommended for skin cancers that:
• Are reoccurring, Surgery is more effective to achieve cancer-free margins for cancers that have irregular borders and also a history of removal and recurrence. • Are existing in visible parts like face, neck, hands, etc. • Are developing quickly • Have higher threat of developing to other areas of the body • Occur in children
There are some mild risks involved in the surgery, such as:
• Bleeding • Scarring • Infection of the wound • Pain or discomfort
Recover after Mohs surgey:
These are the most common side effects that most people experience after the surgery, but they will subside within few days. After undergoing Mohs surgery, the recovery process is usually easy and uneventful. Generally recovery may take 2-4 weeks based on the extent of the surgery. Local anesthetic is given during the procedure, so recovery may not be as lengthy or complex as some other procedures. Most commonly recovery period depends on the extent of your surgery.
Stitches will be removed about two weeks after the surgery. Surgeon recommends taking as much rest as possible particularly during the initial days. If you experience any pain, the doctor may suggest an over-the-counter medication such as Tylenol.
Avoid any kind of strenuous activity like exercises or heavy lifting for few weeks after the surgery. Also avoid exposure to sun as much as possible. Ask your surgeon about the adequate protection from sun.
