Swollen and Hard After Mohs Surgery

Lumps under scars from reconstruction could represent normal swelling, palpable dissolvable suture early in the post operative period and dissolving reactions later in the course, hematoma which is blood that has collected focally, or an infection. If you're not having pain in the area, the firm area will probably resolve in time, but you should see your doctor for reassurance and they may suggest some treatment to hasten the resolution.

Mohs' surgery is a method of removal of cancerous tissue in the skin. It is not a method of reconstuction. In nearly all cases, some form of reconstruction is performed to close the wound after the cancer is removed. This can be extremely simple, such as putting in a few stitches, or very complex requiring more than one surgery. Depending upon the reconstruction that is performed, one will expect different results and different after care.

In any case, your surgeon should discuss with you what is expected and what not to expect after surgery. Anything that is "not expected" should be reported to your surgeon.

That being said, the following list below constitute a general list of side effects that should not substitute the instructions given to one by their surgeon. These are listed for illustrative purposes only.

Common expected side effects of any surgery include:


minor bruising

mild pain at the surgical site

mild spotting of blood at the surgical site

mild swelling


Other side effects that should be reported to one's surgeon:


allergic reactions to tape and bandages --itching at the site with red rash and/or small blisters

any bleeding

infection--redness, warmth, drainage, discharge

moderate or severe swelling.

Separation of the wound or stitches falling out.


 

Wounds can heal with scar tissue that is hard to touch. However, I would recommend that you show the wound to your surgeon and discuss to make sure you are healing as expected.

In the post-op period it is not uncommon to have swelling and strange sensations.  Scar tissue can leave "hard spots" under the skin, but for that to have developed in 12 days seems implausible.  It could be a hematoma (blood clot) under the skin.  A picture would be helpful. I would strongly suggest going back to your surgeon and expressing your concerns.