What to Expect After Skin Cancer Removal Surgery
Treating and stopping skin cancer depend on first removing it. Whether your surgery was straightforward or more complicated, it’s crucial to know what to expect during recovery. Your type of cancer, the site, and the treatment approach will affect recovery time, side effects, and aftercare. This guide explains what to expect after skin cancer surgery.
Immediate Recovery
The area may hurt, swell, or feel numb just after surgery. Around the incision, you also find some redness or bruises. This is normal; it should clear in a few weeks. Your doctor will advise you on whether and when to have stitches taken out.
Most people go home the same day. Within 24 hours, you could be able to engage in light activities. Your doctor may recommend you to refrain from hard lifting or exercise for a few days so the region may recover.
Pain and Discomfort
You might feel significant comfort for the first several days after surgery. Should the operation call for a highly mobile body part—such as your face, neck, or joints—you could be more uncomfortable. Usually, over-the-counter medications help such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. See your doctor should the pain not go away or get worse.
Wound Care and Bandages
Taking care of the wound is important for healing and preventing infection. Your doctor will give you clear instructions on how to clean the area, change bandages, and apply any ointment. Most wounds need to stay clean and covered for a few days. Don’t get the area wet unless your doctor says it’s okay.
- Watch for signs of infection like:
- More redness or swelling
- Pus or unusual drainage
- Fever or chills
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these.
Scarring and Skin Appearance
After skin cancer removal, some scarring is expected—particularly if a lot of tissue was removed. Usually fading with time, scars become less obvious. Your doctor might advise a scar cream or massage if you find the scar ugly.
The kind of surgery affects how the scar looks:
- Excisional Surgery: Leaves a straight scar where the skin was stitched.
- Mohs Surgery: Often leaves smaller, more exact scars.
- Curettage or Cryotherapy: May leave a small scar or change in skin color.
Protecting your skin from the sun while healing is very important. Use sunscreen or cover the scar to prevent it from getting darker.
Emotional Impact
Even if it’s found early, skin cancer treatment can be taxing. Anxiety can occur from waiting for test findings or from worry about scars. It’s good to share your feelings. Support groups and counseling can guide you across the emotional aspects of rehabilitation.
Follow-up Visits
Your doctor will arrange follow-up visits to see how you are healing and to confirm the cancer has not returned. These visits are very important. Your doctor will also check your skin for any new or changing spots.
Depending on your history, you may need full skin checks every 6 to 12 months.
Prevention Moving Forward
After surgery, it’s important to protect your skin to help prevent future skin cancer:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen every day
- Wear hats and protective clothing outside
- Stay away from tanning beds
Tell your doctor about any changes you see on your skin
Conclusion
Following skin cancer surgery involves emotional as well as physical healing. One can feel more ready knowing what to expect. Following the advice of your doctor and attending all follow-up visits will help you to recover more quickly and keep healthy.
This post was written by a professional at Wall Dermatology. Wall Dermatology, led by Dr. Weston Wall, a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, is a premier dermatology practice dedicated to excellence in skin care. Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Dr. Wall is deeply committed to serving his community with expert medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services. Specializing in skin cancer removal St Petersburg FL, detection, and treatment, Wall Dermatology combines cutting-edge techniques with a compassionate, patient-first approach. With decades of experience, Dr. Wall and his team prioritize personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and confident in their skin health. Trust Wall Dermatology for expert, compassionate, and comprehensive dermatologic care.
