Post-Surgical Care

Post-Surgical Care

Expert Support for a Smooth, Confident Recovery After Skin Cancer Surgery

At Precision Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Prairie Village, KS, we believe your care doesn’t end when the surgery does. Proper post-surgical care is critical for ensuring optimal healing, minimizing scarring, and preventing complications after skin cancer procedures such as Mohs surgery, surgical excision, or reconstructive surgery.

Led by Dr. Tarantino, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, we provide personalized post-op instructions, same-week follow-ups, and hands-on support to guide you through every stage of recovery.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Why Post-Surgical Care Matters

Even a perfectly performed surgery relies on good wound healing for the best final result. Proper post-surgical care:

  • Reduces the risk of infection
  • Minimizes swelling, bruising, and discomfort
  • Encourages faster healing
  • Helps achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome
  • Supports emotional peace of mind during recovery

We focus on patient education, ensuring you feel confident and informed about caring for your skin after your procedure.

If you’re curious about how we integrate surgery with prevention and aesthetics, visit our pages on Melanoma Treatment and Cosmetic Dermatology.

What to Expect After Skin Cancer Surgery

Following your surgery, you’ll receive a detailed written care plan, covering:

Wound Care Instructions

  • How to clean the surgical site
  • What type of dressing to use and how often to change it
  • Signs of infection to watch for

Activity Restrictions

  • Limiting exercise, heavy lifting, or bending for a specified period
  • Protecting the area from trauma

Pain Management

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers typically suffice (e.g., acetaminophen)
  • Cold compresses to reduce swelling

Scar Optimization

  • Instructions on when and how to begin gentle scar massage
  • Recommendations for silicone gels, sunscreen, and other products

For complex closures, we’ll also schedule a wound check or suture removal visit typically within 5–14 days after your procedure.

Tailored Care for Facial and Neck Surgeries

Areas like the face and neck require extra attention to ensure the best functional and cosmetic outcomes. After Mohs surgery for the face and neck, we emphasize:

  • Gentle cleansing and minimal manipulation
  • Sun protection to prevent hyperpigmentation
  • Close follow-ups for scar management and cosmetic refinements, if needed

Why Trust Precision Dermatology for Post-Surgical Care?

  • Care led by a fellowship-trained Mohs and reconstructive surgeon
  • Same-week follow-up availability for questions or concerns
  • Patient-first philosophy with personalized attention
  • Trusted by patients across Prairie Village, Leawood, Overland Park, and the Kansas City metro
  • Full spectrum services from Diagnosis & Biopsies to treatment and recovery

Visit our Patient Information page for tips on preparing for surgery and planning your recovery.

FAQs: Post-Surgical Care

What are the 5 W's after surgery?

The "5 W’s" for evaluating post-surgical complications are wind (pulmonary issues like pneumonia), water (urinary tract infections), wound (surgical site infections), walking (preventing blood clots), wonder drugs (reactions to medications). While most dermatologic surgeries like Mohs carry a low risk for these, we closely monitor wound healing to catch problems early.

What is the most painful day after surgery?

For most patients, the first 24–48 hours post-surgery involve the most discomfort, typically from swelling and tightness. Pain is usually mild and manageable with simple medications.

What are comfort items for post-surgery?

Comfort items may include soft pillows to elevate the head, cold packs to minimize swelling, loose, comfortable clothing, easy-to-prepare meals and hydration supplies. We also recommend organizing your home to limit bending and straining during recovery.

Heal Confidently with Expert Post-Surgical Care

Your journey to recovery deserves expert guidance. At Precision Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, we offer comprehensive, compassionate post-surgical care that helps you heal faster, feel better, and look your best.

Schedule, email, or complete our contact form to get started. Same-week appointments available.

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