Basal Cell Cancer Removed - Mohs Surgery - Longmont, CO

This was one of the worst experiences I've ever had! The P.A. that called with biopsy result made it sound like the surgery was relatively minor. The office never told me what to expect or how to prepare for the surgery, so I called with some questions. The P.A. said most people don't have anything stronger than a local anesthetic, and just gave me a general description of what the doctor would do. I didn't even meet the doctor before the day of the scheduled procedure. After injecting my lip with anesthetic, I could feel the tug of slicing skin off my upper lip. I immediately threw up and was shaking and light headed. They acted as if this were strange, and said it rarely happens. I hadn't brought my husband to be with me, since I wasn't planning to have a general anesthesia, but realized I needed him there with me. I didn't receive much comfort at that point, and they left me in the room by myself for what seemed like a long time. After finally getting my bearings, I tried calling my husband to come, and he arrived later. My husband and I were in the surgery room and the doctor came in to continue the surgery. He didn't even acknowledge my husband or introduce himself - how rude!! He and the M.A. proceeded to get another slice of skin, and just imagining what they were doing caused me extreme discomfort since I was wide awake. When they began to close the wound up, I could see them sewing the skin with stitches, and could hear them going through my skin. I wished I had had my music to listen to to at least mask the noises of cutting and sewing.

Bottom line is this: I think the doctors and staff should have explained in detail BEFORE my surgery what to expect, what the options are for anesthesia, how to help me with anxiety and discomfort (music through earphones), etc. They have done probably thousands of these procedures, and they should know all the possible concerns of a patient, and address them beforehand. If this surgery had been on my arm, leg, almost any place else on my body, I would have been OK with their approach, but on my face!! Come on - they really neglected their oath on this one.