MOHs Surgery Next Week - Dr Zloty, Vancouver, BC

It is for the side and tip of my nose.I am petrified. Have hype-ventilated numerous times, can't sleep...just thinking about worst-case scenario of losing my face or them finding that I am full of cancer. Would it be inappropriate for me to take a valium before the surgery?I'm afraid my extreme anxiety will make it even worse. I'm not looking for an "It'll be ok", just an explanation of how to get through it and how to communicate this to Dr.

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Valium medication risk

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by KM75

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Mohs on nose

The nose is a very sensitive area of the face. Many of our patients get their Mohs reconstruction done under IV sedation

Sam Naficy, MD

80 reviews

Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.seattleface.com

Nervous before surgery

I tell all of my patients that it is ok to be nervous before surgery. In fact, I'd be worried if they weren't a little nervous before undergoing an elective procedure. I see no problem with taking a little sedative, like Valium, the night before the procedure and, if fact, freely prescribe this to those who need it.

Lawrence Kass, MD

31 reviews

Saint Petersburg Oculoplastic Surgeon

www.kassmd.com

Nervous About Mohs Surgery

It is perfectly normal to be nervous about Mohs surgery. Many, if not all of my patients, have similar concerns. They worry about the extent of surgery, the amount of reconstruction they might require, and the scarring that will be left behind. However, the vast majority of my patients are incredibly surprised (and relieved!) when they see how minimally invasive the Mohs procedure is and how difficult it is to see any scarring afterwards. I have prescribed Valium to some of my patients... more

Nervous about Mohs surgery

I'm sorry you are so nervous and while I'd like to waylay your fears, your best bet is to call the office and discuss your concerns with them. I wouldn't have any concern about prescribing a Valium for you if you are that nervous and this wouldn't affect anything in your procedure, but your physician needs to understand what you are afraid of and why. He or she can discuss the procedure, your concerns, what will happen and why, any risks, etc. If you know more I'm sure... more

Concerns regarding Mohs Surgery

Best option is to communicate your concerns to your doctor. Tell him what your fears are, and perhaps he can explain so that the procedure is less frightening. I would not recommend an anxiolytic, such as valium, unless absolutely necessary and only with the consent of your surgeon and most imprortantly after you have given informed consent to the procedure. Most patient are frightened by a surgical procedure, especially if they have not undergone a similar procedure before. Speaking for... more