Post Operative Information                 

Will I experience pain?

Most patients do not complain of uncontrolled pain after surgery.  If there is discomfort, Tylenol or Tylenol #3 provides excellent relief.  Avoid taking aspirin-containing medications as they may cause bleeding, unless you take it for blood-thinning purposes per your doctor’s order.

Will I have any limitations on activities?

For about one-week post surgery, we ask that you do not:

• Engage in any activities that will increase your heart rate
• Get the area wet
• Bend over
• Lift anything heavier than a gallon of water

What about follow-up care?

Usually at least one return visit with one of our clinical staff members will be needed to examine the healed area or to remove stitches.  Some patients are also scheduled for post-operative visits with Dr. Parker.

Once you have been released from our care, you should return to your referring physician for routine check-ups.  A follow-up period of five years for the treated cancer is essential.  After having skin cancer, statistics show that you have a higher chance of developing additional skin cancers.  You should have your skin checked by your physician at least once a year, not only to examine the treated area, but also to check for new cancers.