Skin cancer is the most frequent cancer in the U.S, with one in five citizens acquiring it by 70 years, as per the Skin Cancer Foundation. It is a grim number, though one made a bit less alarming considering that it is among the most curable cancers. Even melanoma, the worst type of skin cancer, shows a 99% 5-year survival rate if identified early. For this reason, it is vital to visit your dermatologist for yearly skin checkups and routinely self-check your skin. Irrespective of your specific skin cancer, Mohs surgeon and dermatologist Dr. Wendy Long Mitchell can help you address your concerns with surgery. Although the procedure is relatively routine, there are a few things you should know beforehand. In this post, Dr. Long outlines some questions to ask before your surgery. Read on to learn more.
What Preoperative Guidelines Should You Take?
Numerous skin cancer surgeries, such as Mohs surgery, a precise procedure frequently employed on the neck and head, do not necessitate general anesthesia. Nonetheless, like with any other surgery, there are still some preoperative measures you must discuss with your surgeon. It would help if you informed your dermatologist whether there are any supplements or medicines you must discontinue before the procedure.
While blood thinners have the most significant potential to affect your procedure and recovery, specific non-prescription supplements, including vitamin E, ginkgo, and fish oil, might trigger excessive bleeding. During your pre-operative consultation, Dr. Long will advise you accordingly to ensure you enjoy a comfortable procedure and smooth recovery.
What Will The Recuperation Entail?
Considering that it is relatively routine, most people do not equate skin cancer surgery with recovery like other surgeries. Yet, it can be intrusive and necessitate a recovery time. The level of the physical restrictions after your surgery will rely strongly on where your skin cancer resides. Wounds often recover better whenever the skin is not in constant motion. Therefore, if cancer lives on your shoulder, hand, or arm, your dermatologist might recommend restricting your exercise for a short time to help speed recovery.
What Sort Of Scar Should You Anticipate?
If your skin cancer is on the face, it is fair that you would be concerned about the size of the scar. Nevertheless, even with Mohs surgery, intended to create as tiny a wound as feasible, it is difficult for any physician to provide a precise estimate of scar size before surgery. If the scar is in a noticeable area, discuss with your dermatologist when you can start treating it and your alternatives. Indeed, there are numerous possibilities, including scar creams, lasers, and silicone strips. If you are susceptible to getting keloid scars, you should inform your dermatologist in advance so they can explore special measures to reduce the risk.
How Likely Are You To Acquire Skin Cancer Afterward?
Some procedures have a greater rate of successful therapy than others. The likelihood of skin cancer recurrence following treatment depends on the specific cancer and the patient. Nonetheless, once you acquire skin cancer, your chances of developing it again increase, even if it is a different type or occurs in another body region. Therefore, regular consultation with your dermatologists is essential to continuously monitor any suspicious moles or tumors.
Do not allow a skin cancer diagnosis to cause you despair! Thanks to advancements in medical technology and techniques, you can find solutions for your malignancies. Whether you are struggling with squamous or basal cell carcinoma or even melanoma, Dr. Long of Manhattan Dermatology can help. During your initial consultation, your physician will examine your unique condition and establish if you are the right candidate for Mohs surgery. If you have more worries or concerns, arrange an appointment through mobile or request online today.
