Mohs Reconstructive Surgery Postoperative Instructions

  • After your procedure, you may not have a dressing over your incision, but this is normal. Closed wounds of the face usually do not require a dressing, but other wound locations may require one.
  • It is recommended to regularly apply Vaseline or antibiotic ointment to your incision to protect the incision and keep it moisturized. Do this 4-5 times daily.
  • Avoid straining, heavy lifting, or heavy activity for at least 7 days following your procedure.
  • Avoid getting your incision wet for 24 hours after surgery. Do not rub, scrub, or otherwise directly clean the incision until instructed otherwise, as this could disrupt the sutures. Gently blotting the incision with a moist washcloth is the only cleaning necessary.
  • Tylenol is typically all that is required for pain control. However, in some cases, you may be prescribed specific medication for pain. If so, follow the instructions provided and avoid other pain medications such as Motrin or Advil (Ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), Aspirin, or other NSAIDs for the first 72 hours after surgery. Avoid taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) in combination with prescribed pain medication which usually contains Tylenol and could result in overdose.
  • Take any other medications, such as antibiotics, as directed by the physician.
  • Some bruising or swelling is normal after surgery. You can reduce this by gently applying a cold compress to the wound for 10 minutes every 1-2 hours for the first 24 hours after surgery. Keeping your head elevated during sleep with extra pillows can also reduce bruising/swelling.
  • Minor oozing of blood from the incisions is common for the first 24-48 hours, but brisk bleeding is not normal and should be brought to the attention of your physician. Minor bleeding can usually be treated by applying gentle, steady pressure with a gauze directly over the source of bleeding for 5-10 minutes.
  • Infections are rare, but fevers or any significant redness, swelling, or drainage of pus from the incision may indicate a wound infection and should be evaluated by your physician.
  • Any other questions or concerns not covered in this information sheet should be brought to your physician’s attention without hesitation. A physician can be reached 24 hours a day and 7 days a week by calling the main clinic telephone number: 704-752-7575