Will the numbness go away after MOHs surgery to my nose?

Question

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  Numbness after any surgical 
procedure is expected for several weeks to months following.  As the 
nerves to the area are traumatized and will then experience a temporary 
neuropraxia, a transient loss of nerve conduction.  This usually 
resolves over the next 6-12 weeks, but depending on the procedure 
performed, sometimes much longer.  Typically this should resolve by 1 
year.  As it goes past this date, the likelihood of the sensation 
returning is small.  However, it can take up to 2 years.  If no return 
from there, it is unlikely to return.  It should be discussed that 
persistent sensory changes may develop following any surgical 
procedure.   Unless the procedure was a skin graft, sensation will likely return.The usual signs of the nerves regenerating and neuropraxia
 resolving is itching, followed by a burning sensation and then 
occasional sharp, shock-like pains.  These will be normal to experience,
 and actually a promising sign.  Usually, normal sensation returns, but 
is is also possible to have decreased sensation or even increased 
sensation to the areas affected.  Re-educating nerves postoperatively is
 often helpful and will allow proper instruction for the affected 
sensory nerves - methods include using different textures to the 
affected areas when showering, bathing, applying lotion, etc.  If 
bothersome, there are some medications that may be helpful, including 
Neurontin for pain for hypersensitivity.  You can try various textures 
such as washcloths, loofahs, cotton sheets, etc.  Massaging the areas is
 also beneficial for the incision to make the finest scar possible.  The
 last place to regain the sensation will be directly adjacent to the 
incision/scar as the nerves will make its way from the periphery to this
 location.  If continual pain arises, evaluation is warranted.  After 
ruling out other causes, one rare explanation may be that a neuroma has 
developed and may require surgical excision.  This is very unlikely 
unless a large sensory nerve has been transected inadvertently during 
the procedure.  Hope that this helps!  Best wishes!

Andrew Kaufman, MD · Answer

The answer is that in most instances the numbness resolves as the sensory nerves grow back. Sometimes a crawling, tingling or other sensation suggests the nerves returning. It depends on many factors, including location and size of the skin cancer. Best option is to discuss with your doctor.

Omar Ibrahimi, MD, PhD · Answer

Numbness is a common complaint of patients following Mohs surgery as the cancer removal also removes the sensory nerves in the area. Generally, the numbness usually goes away for most patients but can take up to one year to happen.

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

Numbness is normal after Mohs surgery in many cases. It can take months, if not a year, for the nerves to fully repair in the operated area. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and 
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person 
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Will the numbness go away after MOHs surgery to my nose?

Answers (4)

Answer: Numbness after Mohs surgery

Answer: Numbness after Mohs surgery

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Will the numbness go away after MOHs surgery to my nose?

Answers (4)

Answer: Numbness after Mohs surgery

Answer: Numbness after Mohs surgery

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Everything you need to know about Mohs Surgery

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