Mohs surgery is a very precise and effective treatment option for certain types of skin cancers, most commonly basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. During this procedure, Dr. Dharia removes cancerous tissue layer by layer, examining each one under a microscope before removing more tissue. This technique not only ensures that all cancerous cells are removed, but also minimizes the amount of healthy tissue affected.
Although Mohs surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, there is some recovery time involved once you go home. In this guide, Dr. Dharia gives you a general idea of what you can expect after Mohs surgery.
Mohs Surgery Recovery Timeline
Healing from Mohs surgery occurs in three main phases:
- Granulation phase (week 1). Immediately after Mohs surgery, your body begins forming new tissue to fill the wound. You may experience some mild bleeding, swelling and redness during this phase. It is important to keep the wound clean and covered, as instructed by Dr. Dharia. He will send you home with detailed instructions on how to change your bandages and keep the area clean to best support healing.
- Contraction phase (weeks 2 to 4). During this time, the wound edges start to pull together and swelling begins to subside. New tissue continues to form, and the scar may start to take shape. If Dr. Dharia used sutures during your procedure, expect them to be removed within the first 1 to 2 weeks. You should begin to notice a visible improvement in appearance and comfort by the end of this phase.
- Maturation phase (week 5 and beyond). This is the final stage, where the scar more fully forms and will gradually mature and fade over time. The surrounding skin continues to regain strength and flexibility. You can usually resume most normal activities by this point.
Managing Pain and Swelling After Mohs Surgery
Discomfort after Mohs surgery is typically mild and easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen. Swelling and bruising are most common in the first few days, especially if your procedure was performed in delicate areas like near the eyes, nose or lips.
To help reduce swelling:
- Gently apply cold compresses for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
- Keep your head elevated when resting or sleeping.
- Avoid strenuous activity for the first week or so.
- Follow all of Dr. Dharia’s wound care instructions closely.
When Will I Be Fully Healed?
Most of Dr. Dharia’s patients feel back to normal within 1 to 2 weeks after Mohs surgery, depending on the location and size of the treated area. Your exact recovery time and experience will also depend on how superficial or deep your Mohs surgery was, with deeper wounds taking longer to fully heal and for scars to form and eventually fade.
If you still have questions about what to expect during Mohs surgery recovery or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Dharia to discuss a suspicious-looking mole, please call our Camarillo office at 805-484-2855 or conveniently get in touch online.
Author: Dr. Daniel G. Kolder
Dr. Daniel G. Kolder is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. As a highly trained plastic surgeon serving Ventura County, he is best-known for his warm, easy manner, compassionate care, and beautiful, natural results.