If you have skin cancer in a highly noticeable area, your doctor may recommend Mohs surgery. During the procedure, Mohs surgeon Glen Allen, VA will effectively remove all the cancer cells from the affected region while reducing the removal of your healthy skin. Some of the most aesthetically pleasing outcomes for skin cancer eradication come from Mohs surgery.
However, taking good care of your wound and promoting regular healing will significantly enhance your outcomes. Here are tips to take care of your wound after Mohs surgery;
1. Reduce your physical activity
On most days, exercise and physical activity are excellent for you, but you will want to prevent increased blood flow shortly after surgery. Blood flows more readily during exercise, which increases the risk of bleeding. We advise patients to refrain from strenuous cardio exercises for a while, such as running and heavy lifting. A leisurely walk is typically okay if you take it easy and watch your heart rate.
Reduced exercise is also necessary to prevent straining of the mending tissues. The skin is often quite elastic and may move with you when you stretch and flex. Your skin is not as strong as it usually is during the first several weeks following surgery. Too much movement can cause Overstretching and maybe ripping of the healing tissues. This tip is crucial if you underwent surgery in a flexible region with plenty of mobility, like the hand.
2. Watch out for infections
One of the biggest worries following skin cancer surgery is infection. If this problem arises, healing may slow down, and scarring can worsen. It can result in catastrophic issues if left untreated. If you do contract an illness, quick treatment can lower your risk. Inform doctors right away if you see any of these infection warning symptoms:
- Increasing redness surrounding the surgery site
- Swelling of the lymph nodes close to the operative site
- Pain that escalates after surgery
- Red blotches
3. Keep the wound covered with a bandage
You should keep a pressure dressing over the wound area for the first 48 hours following Mohs surgery or until your doctor instructs otherwise. This bandage applies pressure, absorbs extra blood or fluid, and helps shield the incision from dirt. Using silicone pads and gauze soaked in oil emulsion is another bandage option. These ensure the bandage won’t cling to the wound, preventing further harm.
4. Avoid being in the sun
Even while the skin cancer may be gone, the underlying area is still vulnerable to UV damage. When you are out in the sun for an extended time, do all you can to keep covered up and seek out shaded spots. Consider putting a bandage or patch over the affected region if you must be in the sun, or at the very least, liberally apply broad-spectrum sunscreen.
5. Ensure that the wound remains moist
A misconception about wound care is that airing out a wound would speed up healing. Utilizing particular ointments and emollients, keeping the surgery site moist with a bandage, and encouraging recovery might help decrease scarring. The wound has a higher chance of leaving a scar and may take longer to heal if a scab or crust forms.
If you have skin cancer, Mohs may be your best solution. Call Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center to book your appointment for Mohs surgery.
