Anne Hardick Dacko MD

Mild to moderate pain is normal for a day or two following surgery, but it generally responds well to oral medication such as extra strength Tylenol. Ice packs can also help ease pain. Do not use aspirin or arthritis pain medications such as Motrin, Advil or ibuprofen because they can cause bleeding. If regular pain medications are not sufficient to control the pain, please contact our office.
How Will My Wound Heal? After the cancer is removed, several options may be considered for managing the wound. Some of them are:

Healing by spontaneous granulation. Letting the wound heal itself offers a good chance to observe the healing process and decreases the chance of a recurrent cancer being invisible or hidden. If during the course of healing, the scar is deemed unacceptable, a cosmetic surgical procedure can be performed. Allowing wounds to heal this way is relatively painless and offers excellent cosmetic results for many body locations.

Closing the wound or part of the wound with stitches. This often speeds healing and can offer good cosmetic results, especially when the scar can be hidden in a line of facial expression or wrinkling. Sutures generally remain in place for 5-7 days and occasionally up to two weeks depending on the location. Do not soak in a tub for 72 hours. Showering is allowed as long as the wound site is treated gently.

Closing the wound with skin grafts, flap repairs or other reconstructive procedures. If necessary, recommendations or referrals for these procedures will be made after complete removal of the tumor. We will make the recommendations that best serve each patient's needs.

Getting the best cosmetic result. Follow the wound care instructions as directed. Don't smoke! Smoking cuts off the blood supply to healing wounds. If you want to achieve the best cosmetic outcome it is important that you do not smoke.
Important reminders:

Do advise us as soon as possible if you must cancel or change your appointment.
Do get a good night's sleep prior to surgery.
Do take your usual medications on schedule unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Do take any new medications your Mohs surgeon prescribes for you.
Do eat breakfast.
Do consider bringing someone with you or to accompany you home.
Do ask any questions you may have.
Do not consume excessive alcohol for 5 day prior to and 48 hours after surgery. (a glass of wine is fine)
Do not engage in strenuous physical activity for 24 hours prior to surgery. Discuss with your doctor when you can resume strenuous activities.