Is it normal for a Mohs surgery spot to bleed and scab after several years?

Question

Several years ago, I had Mohs surgery to remove a basal cell spot on my scalp. The spot scabs and bleeds on occasion after all this time. My hair stylist notices it, too. The PA said it is common. Is it normal for that spot to still have irritation?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Moh’s surgery on the face often requires surgical repair and reconstruction to reapproximate the skin edges. Flaps or direct closure techniques are used. It is important that you optimize scar healing during this phase in order to reduce longterm scars. For red scars, we use Vbeam laser, followed by fractional laser for scar topography and contour. We recommend Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily for the immediate postoperative period. Fractional laser is safe for scar laser therapy. 
There are treatments for swelling and edema of the scars. If there is residual sutures or edema, we advise you to follow a scar treatment protocol that can minimize the time to recovery. Our office specializes in scar revisions for Moh’s surgery. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Alex Khadavi, MD · Answer

Sometimes after a Mohs surgery you can get bleeding immediately after due to several reasons but years later i would not call common. It is best to have the site rechecked for a possible regrowth of the skin cancer or perhaps a new lesion has developed. 
Best,
Alex Khadavi M.D.

Is it normal for a Mohs surgery spot to bleed and scab after several years?

Answers (2)