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

asked 1 year ago by EastWestGirl in Los Gatos, CA
Latest answer by Andrew Kaufman, MD
Question viewed 1,367 times
Tags: nasolabial folds, nose, basal cell carcinoma, 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!

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

+1

Swelling after Surgery

You develop the greatest amount of swelling the first 48 hours after surgery. Ice packs for 15-20 minutes of every hour you're awake, elevating the surgery site, and minimizing activities during this time can help. If it persists or becomes worse, you should see your doctor.
Andrew Kaufman, MD

Los Angeles Dermatologic Surgeon

www.dermatology-center.com

+2

Post op swelling

It is not unusual to develop significant swelling one day after Mohs surgery.  Avoiding straining, lifting, laying flat and bending over helps. Ice packs can help even one day after surgery but check with your surgeon as to how long to leave the ice on and how frequently to reapply. Some doctors recommend taking Arnica montanna, an herb found in health food stores and pharmacies, as it may reduce swelling and bruising.
Ronald Shelton, MD

Manhattan Dermatologist
+2

Post operative swelling is normal

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... more
Laurie Jacobson, MD

Seattle Dermatologist

www.pacificdermcenter.com

+2

Swelling after Mohs reconstruction peaks after several days

What you describe is not unusual. As long as you don't have a hematoma (collection of blood under the skin) things will heal normally. If you're concerned about fluid under the incision, return to your surgeon for checkup. Otherwise, your swelling should steadily subside. Best, Stephen Weber, M.D., Ph.D.
Stephen Weber, MD

Lone Tree Facial Plastic Surgeon
+2

Reducing swelling

It sounds like you are doing all the right things. sleeping upright and keeping it clean helps. Taking an antihistamine also helps sometimes. I am sure you will be happy with the results.
Purvisha Patel, MD

Germantown Dermatologist
+2

Swelling after Mohs removal and reconstruction Tips

Dear Eastwestgirl, you are doing all the correct things. Remember after facial plastic surgery,  swelling goes away, the result lasts forever, so be patient.   Post operative swelling is usually at its greatest at 2- 3 days after the surgery. Think about how your ankle swells after a sprain From your description of the area of swelling, it certainly could be normal, but keep in contact with your surgeon   Gel... more
Travis T. Tollefson, MD, MPH

Sacramento Facial Plastic Surgeon
+2

Post operative swelling

The first thing you shoudl do is let your surgeon know so he or she is aware and ask him or her if they have any preferences on how to treat and address their own post operative swelling. Common measures include ice and pressure bandages to the area, NSAIDS are controversial because they can exacerbate bleeding.
Steven Hacker, MD

West Palm Beach Dermatologic Surgeon

www.palmbeachdermasurgery.com

+1

Swelling can be normal

Swelling after surgery can be normal, and it sounds like you are doing lots of right things. However, if you have any concerns, there is no substitute to visiting your surgeon for a quick postoperative visit.
Jeffrey Ellis, MD

Long Island Dermatologic Surgeon

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