Everett Dermatologists

2 Days Post-op MOHS Surgery - How to Reduce Swelling?

Dear doctors, I had a nodular BCC removed 2 days ago via MOHS - lateral to my right nostril in the nasal labial crease. Final incision extends from the right nostril following down the nasolabial crease, ceasing ~1cm from rt corner of mouth. I had no swelling the day after but woke up today with lots of swelling, no redness or signs of infections. I've been sleeping fairly upright, avoiding salt, lots of fluids. What else can I do to reduce swelling? Ice? OTC meds? Thank you!

Your post-operative description sounds very normal and you are doing all the right things.  Make sure to avoid exercise or anything that raises your blood pressure as that can easily contribute to even more swelling.  Also, having a firm 'pressure' dressing can be helpful too.  If it seems unusual to you in any way, always let your doctor know and s/he can evaluate in person.   Swelling after Mohs surgery can often last a week or more depending on the size of the cancer and the size of the repair that is required after its removal. 

Laurie Jacobson, MD

Seattle Dermatologist

What is BCE and is Moh's a Good Idea?

Right nasal bridge. There are strands and cords of basal cell between collagen bundles in a dense fibrous stroma. The stands and cords are compressed by the fibrous tissue, and there are some clefts between them and the stroma.

For a basal cell cancer on your nose, Mohs offers the lowest rate of recurrence (that it will come back again) and the best chance for a minimal scar.  The other options that exist (excision, electrodessication and curretage, radiation) do not offer as high a clearance rate and often lead to suboptimal scarring.   Make sure you look for a dermatologist with specialized training in Mohs surgery.  Good luck.

Laurie Jacobson, MD

Seattle Dermatologist

Can I Still Do Botox if I Am Doing Allergy Shots?

I am currently doing allergy shots for trees, cats, dogs, grass, molds, roaches. With doing that and since I am on my maintance I have noticed I have started to become allergic to different things such as foods. So I was wondering if I could still do Botox with all these allergies?

As long as you can stand all the needles coming your way, there is no problem getting the allergy shots and the Botox injections.   Plus, you will have the added bonus of not being able to frown when you get the allergy shots.  In all seriousness though, there is no reason you can't do both from a medical standpoint.

Laurie Jacobson, MD

Seattle Dermatologist