Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a consultation before getting surgery?

Yes. Your Mohs surgeon must evaluate the size and complexity of the skin cancer and review your medical history prior to surgery.

Will I be hospitalized?

No. Mohs surgery is performed in our modern outpatient surgical suite using only local anesthesia, just like for a skin biopsy, and you will go home the same day.

Can I eat breakfast before my surgery?

You may eat a normal breakfast on the day of surgery and you should take all your normal medications. Make sure to tell your Mohs surgeon about any medications you take, even over the counter medication.

Can I take my medications? What about prescription baby aspirin?

Make sure to let your Mohs surgeon know what medications you take. In general, you may take all your routine prescription medications. Blood thinners such as aspirin, Coumadin or Plavix can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising during and after the surgery, however these medications are often necessary to prevent heart attack, stroke or blood clots and typically would not be discontinued for routine surgeries. If you take any prescription blood thinners, make sure to discuss these with your surgeon prior to surgery.

You should stop taking all non-prescription blood thinners such as Advil, Ibuprofen, Naproxen.

Will I have pain after the surgery?

Most patients have only mild discomfort as the anesthesia wears off.  Tylenol is usually all that is needed for relief.

How many stitches will I have?

If it is necessary to suture your wound after the skin cancer is removed, your Mohs surgeon will use delicate reconstructive techniques to optimize the scar. There may be one long suture or many tiny sutures.

Can I exercise after surgery?

In most cases, strenuous exercise and swimming must be avoided for one to two weeks after your surgery.

Will I have a scar?

Scars are how skin heals following injury or surgery. Because Mohs surgery allows for the smallest possible excision, cosmetic results are typically very good.

What are my chances of a cure?

Mohs micrographic surgery offers the highest cure rate for most types of skin cancers, even when other forms of treatment have failed. For most skin cancers the percentage of cure is approximately 97% to 99%.

Will I have other skin cancers?

The cure rate following Mohs surgery is very high and the tumor is unlikely to recur. If you have developed skin cancer once, however, you are at increased risk of developing new, unrelated skin cancers in the future. It is important that you protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen, wearing hats and protective clothing, and by avoiding outdoor activities in the middle of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when the sun is strongest. It is also important that you check your own skin regularly for any new or changing spots or any spots that bleed or do not heal. You should discuss any concerns with your dermatologist and make sure to schedule a full body skin screening exam with a board-certified dermatologist at least once or twice a year.

Will my insurance cover the cost?

We accept assignment on Medicare policies and we also accept many insurance plans. We will also submit a claim to any other insurance company for you. Expenses not covered include insurance deductibles and co-pay amounts. Ask our office staff if you have concerns about insurance coverage. We would not want anyone to be denied medical care because of an inability to pay. If you have difficulty understanding your bill or paying your bill, we encourage you to discuss this with our office staff.