Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and confident on the day of your Mohs surgery. This guide explains how to prepare, what to bring, and what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.
Most patients require very little preparation before Mohs surgery. Following these recommendations can help your appointment go as smoothly as possible.
Unless your physician has instructed you otherwise, eat breakfast and take your usual medications before arriving for your appointment. Certain medications may need to be stopped. Talk to your surgeon before your appointment.
Continue taking your regularly prescribed medications unless you have received different instructions from our office or your prescribing physician.
If you take blood thinners or have questions about specific medications, please contact our office before your procedure.
Choose loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area. Shirts that button or zip in the front are often more comfortable for procedures involving the head or neck. The surgery rooms can be cold. Dress in layers.
Although the surgical portion of Mohs surgery is relatively short, tissue processing and microscopic examination take time between stages.
Please plan to spend the day with us, unless you are told otherwise. We recommend keeping the remainder of your day free of other commitments.
Please bring your insurance information and a current photo ID.
Bring an updated list of your medications and allergies if needed.
You may wish to bring snacks, water, or lunch, as you may be with us for several hours.
A book, tablet, headphones, or another quiet activity can help pass the time between surgical stages.
When you arrive:
Between stages, you’ll relax comfortably while the tissue is processed and examined under the microscope.
The number of stages required depends on your individual skin cancer and cannot be determined in advance.
Once the cancer has been completely removed:
Before leaving, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any remaining questions.
Only if specifically instructed by your physician. Never stop prescription medications without discussing them with your prescribing provider.
Most patients are able to drive themselves home. However, depending on the location of your surgery or any medications you receive, you may wish to arrange for someone to accompany you.
Yes. Mohs surgery is performed using local anesthesia, so you remain awake throughout the procedure.
Every procedure is different. Most patients should expect to spend several hours at our surgery center.
The area is numbed before surgery begins. Most patients experience little discomfort during the procedure and mild soreness afterward.
Our goal is to make your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
From check-in through recovery instructions, our nurses, laboratory staff, and Dr. Henry work together to guide you through every step of your procedure with compassion, clear communication, and personalized care.
Advanced accredited training focused exclusively on Mohs surgery and reconstruction.
Diagnosis, pathology, Mohs surgery, reconstruction, and follow-up coordinated in one practice.
Extensive experience treating skin cancer with precision and care.
Our team is here to answer questions and help you feel prepared before, during, and after surgery.
Preparing for Mohs surgery is simple for most patients, but understanding what to expect can help make the day less stressful. At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we provide detailed instructions before every procedure so patients know how to prepare, what to bring, and how to care for their surgical site afterward. Fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon Dr. Lance Henry performs Mohs surgery using local anesthesia, allowing most patients to remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Patients from Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville, Harrison, and throughout Northwest Arkansas trust our experienced team for comprehensive skin cancer care, including diagnosis, Mohs surgery, reconstruction, and long-term follow-up.
Learn who may benefit from Mohs surgery, its advantages, and why patients choose Advanced Dermatology.
Learn what happens before, during, and after Mohs surgery.
Discover how reconstruction following Mohs surgery is personalized to preserve function, restore appearance, and achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome after skin cancer removal.
Learn about the advanced training completed by Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons and why it matters in skin cancer care.
Learn what to consider when choosing a Mohs surgeon, including Fellowship training, experience, and comprehensive skin cancer care.
From skin biopsies and surgical excisions to Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery, explore the treatment options available for skin cancer and what to expect at every stage of care.
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC proudly serves patients throughout Northwest Arkansas with convenient locations including:
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Wednesday - Thursday 8 am – 5 pm
Monday – Thursday, 8 am – 5 pm
