Had Mohs surgery 2 days ago

Just thought I'd share my story.

Had a small little bump by my nose for a couple of years (I'm in my 30s - very fair skin - don't tan - but had a couple of sunburns as a child)

Went to the dermatologist for breakouts and she was like "whoa - that's skin cancer right there". She did a biopsy and it came back as bcc. She initially made an appointment for me to see the plastic surgeon.

I did a LITTLE bit of research and saw that the recurrance rate was a lot lower with Mohs and that they would guarantee it would be clear so thought that made more sense. Luckily the hospital I went to had 3 Mohs surgeons.

I had the procedure on Tuesday. I hadn't really done my homework and so was pretty surprised at how much tissue was taken and how long the scar is (although in a weird way I think I was way less stressed because I was under the illusion it would be a couple of little slices and a couple of stitches)

In terms of the procedure, I had to have 3 "stages" removed. I was surprised at how much lidocaine was shot into my face! It was unpleasant - a sort of strange digging sensation as they removed the tissue - but not painful. The doctor and nurse were absolutely fantastic - very kind and informative.

Although the original bump was maybe 3-4 mm across, I would say that the tissue removed was maybe the size of a silver dollar. I asked to take a look before they closed it up and it was pretty big and gross. I now have 30-40 stitches (half under the skin - dissolvable) and half above. Although I imagine if this was on my body, about 6 big stitches would do the job. Instead i have maybe 18 teeny tiny little stitches which I think will help the cosmetic appearance. I'm thinking I look like the girl in "the nightmare before christmas"

I will have the stitches out next Tuesday and then my doctor has advised that after a few months I can get dermabrasion or fraxel laser if I'm not happy with the appearance.

If I remember correctly, she said there is a 30% risk of another bcc in the next 3-5 years and maybe 50% risk in the next 5-10 years so I will be checking myself and having regular appointments

It's not really painful - I took some tylenol on the first day (no aspirin due to blood thinning) - the giant bandage is quite off putting and I'm struggling with the concept of not getting it wet. I've been getting my hair blown out at the salon (figure dirty hair plus big band aid would just be too depressing)

I'll try to post again after I have the bandage off and stitches out. Here's my thoughts based on my experience if you're planning on getting Mohs surgery:

- expect to feel a bit crappy for a few days, my doctor advised it can be quite depressing as it's traumatic to have something so invasive done to your face

- definitely have someone come with you and drive you if you can.

- bring a book and maybe a juice - the waiting time can be 45-60 mins between stages

- expect a decent amount of tissue to be taken (obviously it depends on each person but it seems quite common that people are surprised at the amount of tissue removed)