Mohs surgery is a precise method for removing skin cancer, often performed on the face. Swelling is a common and expected part of the recovery process. Understanding its nature and how to manage it can help patients.
Understanding Post-Surgery Swelling
Swelling after Mohs surgery on the face is a natural response as the body begins to heal. The surgical procedure manipulates tissues, creating a wound. The body responds by sending fluids and immune cells to the affected area, triggering a localized inflammatory response. This normal physiological reaction, aimed at repair and regeneration, leads to the accumulation of fluid and visible puffiness in the days following the procedure.
The Expected Swelling Timeline
The duration of swelling after Mohs surgery on the face varies, but a general timeline applies. Swelling is most noticeable within the first 24 to 72 hours following the procedure. During this initial peak, swelling around areas like the eyes, nose, or lips can be significant, sometimes causing temporary eye closure if surgery was nearby.
Gradual improvement begins after the first few days, with a reduction in swelling by the end of the first week. Most visible swelling resolves within two to four weeks. Some subtle residual swelling can persist for several weeks to a few months, especially in areas with thinner skin or larger excisions.
Influences on Swelling Duration
Several factors affect how long swelling persists after facial Mohs surgery. The specific location of the surgical site plays a role, as areas with thinner skin or extensive lymphatic drainage, such as the eyelids, lips, or nose, tend to experience more noticeable and potentially longer-lasting swelling. The size and depth of the tissue removed also influence swelling; larger or deeper surgical defects generally result in more significant and prolonged swelling due to greater tissue disruption.
The reconstructive technique used to close the wound, such as primary closure, a skin flap, or a skin graft, can impact the extent and duration of post-operative swelling. Individual healing responses vary. Adherence to post-operative care instructions also directly influences how quickly swelling subsides.
Caring for Swelling and Knowing When to Call Your Doctor
Managing swelling after Mohs surgery on the face involves several practical strategies to support the healing process. Applying gentle cold compresses intermittently to the surgical site for 15 to 20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours. Elevating your head, particularly while sleeping, by using extra pillows can also assist with fluid drainage and minimize puffiness. Avoiding strenuous activities and staying hydrated are also beneficial for optimal recovery. Always follow all wound care instructions provided by your surgeon.
While some swelling is expected, certain signs warrant contacting your doctor. These include a sudden and significant increase in swelling after initial improvement, severe or worsening pain that is not managed by over-the-counter medication, or spreading redness from the wound. Other concerning symptoms are the presence of pus or a foul odor from the surgical site, or a fever. Promptly report any of these issues for medical evaluation and intervention if a complication, such as an infection, develops.