MOHS surgery is a type of skin cancer surgery that involves removing the tumor layer by layer and examining each layer under a microscope. The process is done by a MOHs surgeon, who specializes in this type of surgery. It is an outpatient procedure and recovery times may vary from person to person. While the decision to take off from work after having MOHs surgery should be discussed with your healthcare provider, this blog post will provide information to help you make an informed decision. Texas Surgical Dermatology, led by Dr. Tri H. Nguyen who is a MOHS fellowship trained specialist, provides MOHS to patients in Houston, Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, Texas, and surrounding locations.
What is MOHS Surgery?
MOHS surgery, named after its founder, Dr. Frederic E. Mohs, is a specialized surgical procedure used to remove skin cancer. It is commonly performed by a MOHS specialist, a dermatologist who has undergone specialized training in this procedure.
MOHS surgery is known for its high cure rate and minimal impact on healthy tissue. It involves removing layers of skin one at a time and examining each layer under a microscope until all cancerous cells have been removed. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and under local anesthesia.
If you are facing skin cancer and your doctor recommends MOHS surgery, it is important to work with a MOHS specialist to ensure the best possible outcome. They will assess the size and location of the cancer and discuss treatment options and expectations. Understanding what to expect during the procedure can help you make an informed decision about your treatment plan.
The Procedure and Recovery
MOHS surgery is a specialized surgical procedure performed by a MOHS specialist to remove cancerous cells from the skin. This type of surgery is commonly used to treat skin cancer, particularly basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. During the surgery, the MOHS specialist removes the cancerous tissue layer by layer until there is no longer any sign of cancer cells.
After the procedure, patients are typically advised to rest and take it easy for a few days to a week. There may be some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, but these are usually manageable with pain medication and rest. It is also important to keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection and aid in the healing process.
As the surgical wound heals, patients will need to return to the MOHS specialist for follow-up visits to ensure that all of the cancer cells have been removed. These visits may include additional procedures, such as skin grafting or reconstructive surgery, depending on the extent of the original cancerous area.
Overall, the recovery time for MOHS surgery can vary depending on the size and location of the cancerous area, as well as individual factors such as age and overall health. It is important to follow the post-surgery instructions provided by the MOHS specialist to ensure proper healing and prevent any complications.
Benefits of Taking Time Off Work
While it may be tempting to return to work immediately after your MOHS surgery, taking time off can provide many benefits to both your physical and mental health. Here are a few reasons why taking time off work is recommended after MOHS surgery:
- Allow Your Body to Rest: MOHS surgery can be physically draining, and it’s essential to give your body time to rest and heal. Taking time off work can provide your body with the necessary rest it needs to recover.
- Prevent Infections: Taking time off work can also help prevent infections from occurring. MOHS surgery involves removing skin cancer cells, leaving a wound that needs to heal. Going back to work too soon could expose the wound to germs and bacteria that could lead to an infection.
- Reduce Stress: Taking time off work can help reduce stress levels, which is beneficial for both physical and mental health. Stress can impede the healing process and even increase the risk of infections. It’s essential to give yourself time to relax and focus on your recovery.
- Avoid Overexertion: Returning to work too soon can lead to overexertion, which can slow down the healing process and cause complications. Taking time off work can allow you to take things slow and focus on your recovery without feeling rushed.
Overall, taking time off work after MOHS surgery is highly recommended. It’s essential to prioritize your health and recovery and give yourself the time and space you need to heal. Your doctor may recommend a certain amount of time off work, and it’s essential to follow their recommendations to ensure a successful recovery.
Returning to Work After MOHS Surgery
After undergoing MOHS surgery, the thought of returning to work may seem daunting. However, it’s important to know that everyone’s recovery process is unique, and it may take some time to fully recover. Before returning to work, it’s essential to have your doctor’s clearance and follow their recommended guidelines.
It’s normal to experience some discomfort and swelling following MOHS surgery, which may make it difficult to work. It’s important to listen to your body and take it easy. If possible, consider a gradual return to work, starting with shorter hours or lighter duties before gradually increasing to your normal workload.
It’s important to note that you may have a wound dressing following MOHS surgery, which may make it difficult to perform certain tasks or may be noticeable to others. Be sure to communicate with your supervisor and colleagues about any accommodations you may need during your recovery.
Additionally, be mindful of sun exposure and wear protective clothing and sunscreen to protect your healing skin. This may mean adjusting your work environment or work schedule to avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Returning to work after MOHS surgery may require some adjustments, but with proper planning and communication, it’s possible to have a smooth transition back to your work routine. Remember to prioritize your health and recovery during this time.
For More Information contact our Board Certified in Dermatologists at Texas Surgical Dermatology in Spring, TX
For more information on procedures and treatments offered at Texas Surgical Dermatology PA please call 832.663.6566 or click here to contact our dermatologists. Helping patients in Houston, The Woodlands, Spring, Katy and other surrounding areas of Texas.
