Why You Shouldn’t Hit the Gym After Mohs Surgery: The Surprising Truth Revealed!

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Have you recently undergone Mohs surgery and are wondering why your doctor has advised against exercising? You’re not alone. Many patients are puzzled by this post-operative restriction and may even feel frustrated or disappointed. However, there are important reasons why exercise should be avoided after Mohs surgery. In this article, we will delve into the science behind this precaution and explore alternative ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the healing process. So, put down those dumbbells and read on to learn more about why you can’t exercise after Mohs surgery.

Introduction

Mohs surgery is a highly common and effective treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. This procedure involves the surgical removal of cancerous tissues layer by layer until the entire tumor is eliminated, while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. The success rate of Mohs surgery is very high, with cure rates of up to 99% for certain types of skin cancer. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are important guidelines to follow for proper recovery. One question that many patients ask is whether they can exercise after Mohs surgery. In this article, we will explore the reasons why exercising may not be recommended immediately after Mohs surgery and when it is safe to resume physical activity.

Understanding Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is named after Dr. Frederic Mohs who developed the technique in the 1930s. It differs from traditional surgical methods in that it examines 100% of the margins to ensure complete removal of cancer cells. The surgeon first removes the visible tumor and then takes thin layers of surrounding tissue, which are then examined under a microscope until no more cancer cells are found. This allows for precise removal while preserving healthy tissues and minimizing scarring.

The procedure itself usually takes several hours, depending on the size and depth of the tumor. It is often performed under local anesthesia, meaning that the area being treated is numbed while the patient remains awake. This also allows for real-time assessment of margins during surgery, ensuring a higher cure rate.

Why Exercising After Mohs Surgery May Not be Recommended

While physical activity is important for maintaining overall health and well-being, it may need to be avoided after Mohs surgery due to possible complications that could impact healing or increase discomfort.

Risk of Bleeding

One potential complication after Mohs surgery is bleeding from the wound site. Exercising, especially activities with repetitive motions or high impact, can increase blood flow and potentially cause the wound to reopen or bleed. Depending on the location and severity of your surgery, avoiding exercise for a period of time (as advised by your doctor) may be necessary to minimize this risk.

Disrupting the Healing Process

After Mohs surgery, your body needs time to heal and regenerate healthy skin cells. Exercise can put added stress on these areas and interfere with this process. In some cases, excessive movement or sweating may also increase the risk of infection. Therefore, it is important to give your body the rest it needs to properly heal after surgery.

Irritation or Damage to Incision Sites

Depending on where the incision was made during Mohs surgery, certain exercises may irritate or damage the incision site. For example, if you have had surgery on your face or head, activities that involve pressing against or rubbing the area could cause discomfort or hinder healing. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for your incisions after surgery and when it is safe to resume physical activity.

When is it Safe to Resume Exercising After Mohs Surgery?

The answer to this question depends on several factors such as the extent of your surgery, location of incisions, and overall healing progress. It is essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions closely for optimal recovery.

In general, most patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise for at least one week after Mohs surgery. This includes any activity that increases heart rate or blood pressure such as jogging, cycling, weightlifting, and other high-intensity workouts. After one week, light exercises may be resumed gradually as long as they do not cause pain or irritation.

However, if you have undergone a more extensive procedure or have had Mohs surgery on a particularly delicate area of the body, such as near the eyes or lips, your surgeon may recommend waiting longer.

Tips for Exercising After Mohs Surgery

When it is time to resume physical activity after Mohs surgery, it is important to do so in a gradual and cautious manner. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Start slow: Begin with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga.
  • Avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort: If you experience pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately and consult your doctor.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after exercising to help with healing and reduce the risk of infection.
  • Protect your incision sites: If your incisions are still healing, avoid placing pressure on them. Use sunscreen if you are going outside to protect the area from sun exposure.
  • Listen to your body: If you feel tired or sore while exercising, take a break and rest.

Conclusion

Mohs surgery is an effective treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers

Overview of Mohs Surgery and Its Purpose

Mohs surgery, also known as Mohs micrographic surgery, is a specialized surgical technique used primarily for the treatment of skin cancer. It was developed in the 1930s by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs and has since become the preferred method for removing skin cancers, especially those on the face, scalp, ears, and hands.

The main purpose of Mohs surgery is to remove skin cancer with maximum precision while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This is achieved through a meticulous and highly controlled process that involves removing thin layers of tissue and examining them under a microscope until all cancer cells have been removed.

Mohs surgery is known for its high success rate in completely removing skin cancer. According to the American College of Mohs Surgery, up to 99% of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the two most common types of skin cancer, can be removed with this technique.

Understanding Exercise After Mohs Surgery

After undergoing Mohs surgery, it is recommended to take it easy for a few days to allow your body to recover from the procedure. This includes avoiding any strenuous activities, including exercise.

Exercise after Mohs surgery can cause strain on your body and may even interfere with the healing process. Therefore, it is important to understand why exercise should be avoided after this type of surgery.

The Effects of Exercise on Wound Healing

When performing physical exercise, our bodies undergo significant changes that result in increased heart rate and blood flow. While this is beneficial for overall health, it can also have an impact on wound healing.

During wound healing, blood vessels near the wound site are fragile and can easily break or rupture if put under too much stress. The increased blood flow caused by exercise can disrupt these fragile blood vessels, leading to bleeding and potentially slowing down the healing process.

Furthermore, exercise can also cause an increase in blood pressure, which can put additional strain on the healing wound. This is especially important to consider for those who have undergone Mohs surgery on their face, as increased blood pressure may cause damage to delicate surgical sites.

Risk of Infection

Another reason why exercise should be avoided after Mohs surgery is the risk of infection. During physical activity, we tend to sweat more, which can create a warm and moist environment for bacteria to thrive. Sweating can also lead to moisture buildup under bandages or dressings, increasing the risk of infection.

Exercise can also introduce dirt and bacteria from other surfaces into an open wound. This can significantly increase the chances of developing an infection, which could potentially complicate the healing process and require additional treatment.

How Long Should You Avoid Exercise?

The length of time you should avoid exercise after Mohs surgery will vary depending on a few factors such as:

– The location of your surgery: If you have had Mohs surgery on your face, you may need to avoid exercise for a longer period compared to a surgery in other areas.
– The size and depth of your wound: Larger and deeper wounds may require more time for healing before resuming any physical activity.
– Your overall health: If you have any underlying health conditions or are immunocompromised, it may take longer for your wound to heal.
– Your doctor’s recommendation: Ultimately, it is best to follow your doctor’s advice on when you can resume exercise after Mohs surgery.

In most cases, patients are advised to avoid any strenuous activity for at least two weeks following their surgery. This period allows the body enough time to heal without putting too much stress on the surgical site. After this initial period, light exercises such as walking or gentle yoga can be slowly introduced if advised by your doctor.

How to Stay Active While Recovering

Although it is recommended to avoid exercise for a few weeks after Mohs surgery, it is still essential to stay active and maintain your overall physical health. Here are a few safe and low-impact activities you can do while recovering from Mohs surgery:

– Walking: Gentle walking can help with circulation and promote healing without putting too much strain on your body.
– Stretching: Light stretching can help prevent stiffness and may also improve blood flow to the wound site.
– Breathing exercises: Deep breathing exercises can promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can aid in the healing process.
– Mindful movement: Activities such as tai chi or gentle yoga can provide both physical and mental benefits while allowing your body to heal.

It is always important to consult with your doctor before engaging in any physical activity after Mohs surgery. Your doctor will assess your individual case and advise you on the best course of action.

Mohs surgery is an effective technique for removing skin cancer with high success rates. However, proper post-operative care is essential for a successful recovery. Avoiding exercise for a few weeks following Mohs surgery is crucial as it may interfere

Question 1: What is Mohs surgery and why can’t I exercise after the procedure?
Answer: Mohs surgery is a procedure used to remove skin cancer, particularly on the face. It involves removing skin tissue layer by layer until no cancer cells remain. Exercising after this surgery can increase blood flow and disrupt the healing process, leading to complications.

Question 2: How long should I wait before resuming physical activity after Mohs surgery?
Answer: It is recommended to wait at least one week before engaging in any form of strenuous physical activity, such as exercising, running, or lifting heavy objects. However, it is best to consult with your doctor for specific instructions based on your recovery progress.

Question 3: Can I do light exercises such as walking or jogging after Mohs surgery?
Answer: While light exercises may not be as strenuous as intense workouts, it is still best to avoid any physical activity that can increase blood flow in the first few days after Mohs surgery. This includes activities such as walking or jogging.

Question 4: Are there any specific exercises that I should avoid after Mohs surgery?
Answer: Yes, you should avoid any exercises that require bending over or putting pressure on the wound area. This includes activities like push-ups, sit-ups, and weightlifting. It is best to stick to low-impact exercises such as walking or stretching until your doctor gives you clearance for more intense workouts.

Question 5: Can I exercise after having stitches removed from Mohs surgery?
Answer: While it may be tempting to resume your exercise routine once the stitches are removed, it is crucial to wait until your doctor gives you the green light. The wound needs time to fully heal and any physical activity at this stage can lead to scarring and other complications.

Question 6: What should I do if I accidentally exercise too soon after Mohs surgery?
Answer: If you accidentally exercise before the recommended recovery period, it is best to stop immediately and consult with your doctor. Inform them of the situation and follow any additional instructions they may have for proper wound care and healing.

In conclusion, it is important for individuals who have undergone Mohs surgery to understand why they may not be able to immediately resume their regular exercise routine. The surgery itself is a delicate and invasive procedure that requires proper care and healing time, and engaging in physical activity too soon can disrupt this process. Furthermore, the potential complications and risks associated with exercising after Mohs surgery make it imperative to follow post-operative instructions carefully.

It is also crucial to recognize that everyone’s recovery process will differ, and therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before resuming any physical activity after Mohs surgery. Factors such as the size and location of the surgical site, as well as any underlying health conditions, should be taken into consideration.

Additionally, incorporating light activities such as walking or gentle stretching can aid in maintaining muscle tone and flexibility while allowing the surgical site to heal properly. Staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet during the recovery period are also essential for optimal healing.

Overall, patience and caution are key when it comes to exercising after Mohs surgery. By understanding why it is necessary to take a break from intense physical activity and listening to your body’s needs, you can ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications. Remember to follow your doctor’s instructions and give yourself

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.