A local anesthetic, usually lidocaine, is injected around the skin cancer to anesthetize the skin. A slight discomfort is experienced initially until the skin becomes numb. Once the numbness has begun, no discomfort is experienced. Anesthesia generally will keep the patient pain free for a couple hours. If additional stages of surgery are required, additional anesthetic may be injected to keep the patient pain free. After the surgery is completed, most patients experience very little discomfort. Any pain after the procedure can usually be controlled with Tylenol or acetaminophen.

The Mohs Micrographic Surgery team consists of highly trained individuals who will be involved in your care. In addition, there are surgical assistants who are experienced in caring for patients during surgery and laboratory technicians who precisely prepare the tissue for microscopic examination.