Facial Surgery: Nov. 6 Following Melanoma Removal. Strong Odor? Cause?

Question

I had facial surgery called a Flap? on Nov. 6 following removal of a large melanoma near my nose. Size of a large tablespoon. Now I am experiencing a strong obnoxious odor around the healing area. I can not send a picture. I don't know how. Can you please help me. I need to know if it an infection since I will be taking care of grandchildren tomorrow.

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. This is a very pointed question, which would require physician evaluation.  Infections typically can smell, but do not necessarily have to; for the best direction as to how to proceed, schedule an appointment with your surgeon as soon as possible, and start treatment, wound care and/or antibiotics as directed. I hope this helps.

Andrew Kaufman, MD · Answer

A strong odor at the surgery site is not normal. It may be the result of an infection or necrotic (dead) tissue. Contact your surgeon right away and have him/her examine the area. Good luck.

Steven Swengel, MD · Answer

Strong odors in healing wounds are not normal and the surgical site needs to be seen by your surgeon an assessed for infection, loss of blood supply and tissue death.  Cultures may need to be taken to determine if there is a bacterial cause.  Get in to see your doctor today.

Omar Ibrahimi, MD, PhD · Answer

I agree with the post below. I would contact your physician who did the melanoma excision and flap. If you had the surgery on Nov 6, it is now 23 days later and that is not the typical in terms of the time course of an infection but the fact there is an odor to it would be something that should be evaluated further in my opinion based on what you are saying. Good luck.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I'm sorry to say I agree with the other posts that this is not normal. It would most likely be an infection or a possible problem with the flap itself, which is causing necrosis or tissue death. It is good you asked this question. And more importantly, it's good to call your physician and ask to be seen immediately, because this isn't normal and needs an in-person evaluation quickly.

Facial Surgery: Nov. 6 Following Melanoma Removal. Strong Odor? Cause?

Answers (6)

Answer: Contact your surgeon

Answer: Contact your surgeon

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Answer: Strong odor after Mohs and skin flap

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Facial Surgery: Nov. 6 Following Melanoma Removal. Strong Odor? Cause?

Answers (6)

Answer: Contact your surgeon

Answer: Contact your surgeon

Answer: Strong odor after Mohs and skin flap

Answer: Strong odor after Mohs and skin flap

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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.