Preparing for your Mohs surgery can help your procedure and recovery go as smoothly as possible. Below you'll find important instructions on what to expect before, during, and after your appointment.
If you have any questions before your procedure, please don't hesitate to contact our team. We're here to help. (479) 718-7546
If this is your first Mohs procedure, we encourage you to review our Mohs Surgery Guide before your appointment.
The guide walks you through the procedure, explains how Mohs surgery works, and answers many common questions.
Please plan to spend most of the day with us.
Because every surgery is unique, we cannot predict exactly when your procedure will be completed. Tissue processing between stages typically takes 1–2 hours, so there may be periods of waiting throughout the day.
To make your visit more comfortable, we recommend:
Keeping your schedule clear for the day
Bringing a book, tablet, or other quiet entertainment
Using our complimentary Wi-Fi
Arranging for someone to drive you home after surgery
Please eat breakfast before arriving for your appointment.
You’re also welcome to bring:
Snacks
A sack lunch
Drinks with secure lids
Food and beverages may be enjoyed in the waiting area but are not permitted in exam or operating rooms.
If you’re attending alone, our front desk staff can safely hold your belongings while you’re in surgery.
If someone accompanies you, they may leave to pick up lunch or snacks while you remain comfortably in the clinic.
For your comfort, we recommend:
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
Layers or a sweater, as operating rooms are kept cool
Clothing that’s easy to remove if your surgery involves an area normally covered by clothing
Please avoid wearing:
Makeup near the surgical area
Perfume or heavily scented products
Jewelry whenever possible
Some medications and supplements can increase bleeding during surgery.
Please stop the following before surgery:
7 days before:
Aspirin*
Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®)
Naproxen (Aleve®)
10 days before:
Fish oil supplements
Vitamin E
Herbal supplements
Multivitamins
You may resume these products two days after surgery, unless otherwise directed by your provider.
Important Exceptions
Do NOT stop aspirin if you have a history of:
Heart attack
Heart surgery
Coronary stents
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Pulmonary embolism (PE)
Stroke
If you’re taking Coumadin® (Warfarin), you’ll need an INR test one week before surgery.
Continue taking all other prescription medications unless your provider instructs you otherwise.
For pain relief before or after surgery, Extra Strength Tylenol® is generally recommended.
If you’re unsure whether you should stop a medication, please contact our office before making any changes.
Plan to take it easy during the first week after your procedure.
For approximately one week, avoid:
Heavy lifting
Strenuous exercise
Activities that may increase bleeding or swelling
You will leave surgery with a pressure bandage that typically remains in place for at least two days and, in some cases, up to one week.
Your bandage must remain clean and dry, so please plan bathing and activities accordingly.
Most patients are able to drive after surgery unless otherwise instructed by their provider.
If you have an Advance Directive or Medical Power of Attorney, please bring a copy with you on the day of your procedure.
Some patients require more complex reconstruction following Mohs surgery.
When appropriate, your repair may be performed in our Arkansas State-licensed, AAAHC-accredited Advanced Ambulatory Surgery Center, conveniently located within the same building as our dermatology clinic.
Your provider will discuss your surgical plan with you before your procedure.
Our team wants you to feel informed and comfortable before your procedure.
If you have questions about your upcoming Mohs surgery, please contact us before your appointment.
Call: (479) 718-7546
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC proudly serves patients throughout Northwest Arkansas with convenient locations including:
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
