Before Mohs Surgery
Before Surgery in Fort Collins & Loveland
You will be asked to come in for a consultation before having surgery to examine the skin cancer, obtain a medical history, review your medications, and determine whether Mohs surgery is the best treatment plan for your unique needs. The pre-op consult allows you to meet with Dr. Divine and our staff, feel comfortable, and get answers to any questions you may have. Special considerations will be made at this time and specific instructions and recommendations may be made. At the consult, the area will be photographed for medical documentation. Additional photos will be taken on the day of surgery and during the various times in the healing process.
This helps the doctor track your progress and make changes if necessary. If you take the blood thinner Coumadin (warfarin) you will need to have an INR drawn 24-72 hours before surgery. If your INR is too high, your surgery may have to be rescheduled.
Do’s And Don’ts
You do not need to fast and you can take your daily medications normally unless otherwise advised by the doctor. Instead, eat a nutritious and filling breakfast to help avoid lightheadedness during the Moh Surgery procedure. Do not drink excess coffee. You may also bring food or snacks with you to the office as well. Avoid drinking alcohol for 48 hours prior to surgery. Please shower and shampoo your hair the night before or the morning of surgery to help provide a clean environment. Please come with a clean face, without make-up. Wear clean, comfortable, and warm clothing that can be easily changed if needed. While we do our best to keep your clothes clean, occasional staining does occur, so please dress accordingly.
Advice For Patients
We do advise patients to set aside most of the day for the surgery and plan on resting for the remainder of the day. Do not schedule other doctors appointments that day or plan to return to work. The average Moh surgery time is 3-4 hours but can last 6-8 hours or greater due to large size, delicate location, or lengthy necessary stitching. You are encouraged to bring a book, newspaper, or computer to help pass the time. Patients are also advised to make arrangements to have someone available to drive them home after Moh surgery if needed. Contact us today to learn more!