Swelling after Mohs surgery. 5 days post-op. Is this normal?

Question

I had MOHS surgery 5 days ago on my scalp, right side, slightly behind my hairline. I have slight swelling around my eye/temple on the right side of my head. Is that normal? I've had some headaches, tenderness and overall aches and pains more on a moderate level but otherwise I feel okay. I'm just concerned the swelling 5 days post-op could be concerning and it seem unusual to me that the swelling is near my temple when the surgery was on my scalp.

Ned Snyder, IV, MD · Answer

Thank you for submitting your questions.  Swelling after Mohs surgery is very common.  If you experience swelling near the operative site, it is usually from fluid settling with position changes.  Commonly, patients will develop swelling around their eyes or upper cheek on the same side of their Mohs surgery, and is worse in the morning upon waking up.  This is usually from lying flat or mostly flat while sleeping.  Cool compression and sleeping with head elevated should improve the swelling.  If it worsens significantly or you suspect infection, you should contact your surgeon.  Good luck in your recovery and thanks again for your questions.

Swelling after Mohs surgery. 5 days post-op. Is this normal?

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