MOHS for lower eyelid: Does doctor numb the lower lid with drops or a needle? Can someone explain the details?

Best option.... talk to the Mohs surgeon. If the cancer is on the margin of the eyelid, drops may be used to anesthetize the cornea so that a protective shield (like a contact lens) may be used but most of the surgery will require a local anesthetic injected into the skin. Talk to the doctor about what he/she is planning to do.

Numbing on eyelids for Mohs is always done with injecting local anesthesia with a needle.  It may seem frightening because it is close to the eye, but the injections are into the skin and so there is nothing to be worried about.  In addition, the numbing is usually mixed with sodium bicarbonate and it is a very small needle so that it hurts even less.  Often times, patients do not even feel the injection.  Topical numbing does not work effectively for Mohs. Best of luck!

Numbing is typically done with a needle. Most Mohs surgeons buffer the lidocaine which makes it sting much less. Additionally, we use a very tiny needle to make it the least uncomfortable possible. It is also possible that they can give you some valium a head of time so you are less anxious. Please ask for that before your apt for the procedure so that you can get a prescription filled and bring it with you.I hope this helps!Dr. Quenby Erickson