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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!
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.
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.
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."
The anesthetic agent used by dentists and Mohs surgeons is most often lidocaine (brand name Xylocaine). A topical anesthetic cream can be used to minimize the pinch from the injection but the solution does cause some discomfort as it is injected into the deeper tissue. The topical...
Mohs surgery is a wonderful procedure that has over a 99% cure rate. I don't know when you had your original diagnosis, but even if it's been a bit the likelihood of it spreading to the skull or metasticizing like you are describing is pretty much impossible. What it most likely would be is that...
It is not uncommon to see significant post op periorbital edema and ecchymoses following forehead surgery. Regardless, I would suggest discussing with a Board Certified Dermatologist with expertise in Mohs surgery.
