Head pain after I had Mohs surgery

Question

I had Mohs surgery to remove a detected carcinoma on my forehead mid Sept. and at the onset, I had headaches which continue today. They are not as severe but do continue. I take 1000mg Tylenol 3 times a day and get some relief. Any recommendations?

Brandon L. Miner, DO · Answer

Occasionally when we do Mohs some of the superficial nerves are damaged in the process.   The damaged nerve can give you a numb sensation or headaches which can last beyond 6 months.   There are better medications for nerve induced pain.   Go back to your Mohs surgeon and try another medication.

Larisa Ravitskiy, MD · Answer

Based on your surgical dates you are in "contraction" wound healing stage. During this healing stage the scar begins to thicken by pulling tissue towards the center of the scar. If muscle was involved during surgery and/or reconstruction, tension headaches that feel like a tight band around forehead or entire head may occur. There is also the risk of nerve injury during surgery. The best course of action is to speak with your surgeon. S/he may recommend scar massage - rolling and pinching the scar tissue against the bone and between fingers. This will soften the scar and decrease tension on surrounding tissues. If it is a nerve injury, it may resolve with time. If it persists after 18 months, it is likely to be permanent.Your surgeon may recommend an injection of steroid to help with the pain, a pain relief medication, or a neuromodulator to help with normalizing nerve function.

Head pain after I had Mohs surgery

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Everything you need to know about Mohs Surgery

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Head pain after I had Mohs surgery

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mohs Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.