Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. Though some people have a lower risk, just about anyone can get it. If you have been diagnosed and are seeking care options, consider a visit to Peters Dermatology Center, serving Bend, OR, and the surrounding area. Dr. Gerald Peters and the staff can provide answers, including sharing what you need to know before beginning treatment. 

Try to Keep Positive

Even for cancers such as skin cancer with high survival rates, hearing you have the "C word” can be scary. You can put yourself through quite a bit of mental anguish while you're going through the treatment process.

However, Dr. Peters and the team at Peters Dermatology Center emphasize the importance of keeping things as positive. Even if the cancer has spread beyond the skin, treatments are available, and your prognosis can improve based on your treatment and reaction to medication.

Know if You Need to Make Medication Changes

Whenever you come in for skin cancer treatment in Bend, OR, you may need to stop certain types of medications before a surgical procedure. Make sure you let us know any medications you are currently taking, so we can educate you on whether you can still take them or at what point to pause.

Take the Entire Day Off for Surgery

Sometimes, a patient may think that because they're having outpatient surgery, they don't need to clear their entire work or personal schedule for the entire day. This isn't always the case. Though Mohs surgery tends to take less than four hours, some procedures are longer and intense, even if hospitalization isn’t required. Following surgery, you may not want to do much strenuous activity afterward. We usually recommend not returning to work or normal activities that day.  

Bring Activities

Whether you want to bring your tablet or laptop, books of crossword puzzles, or something else to pass time, you should. Depending on your procedure, there may be waiting periods where your practitioner is taking tissue or waiting for labs to be analyzed before continuing the procedure.

Dress Comfortably

You may be someone who strives to always look their best, but we give you a pass for these treatments. Just dress comfortably - surgery could take a few hours, and you may only receive a local anesthetic.

Eat Beforehand

Unless you’re instructed not to, go ahead and eat before your procedure since this can give you energy and comfort. Some procedures that include ‘twilight’ sedation may require fasting or a limited diet.

If you suspect you have skin cancer or know you need treatment, Peters Dermatology Center, serving Bend, OR, and the nearby region, offers the skills and expertise of Dr. Peters. By knowing how to prepare, you can do your part to help make the procedures comfortable and safe. Call (541) 323-7546 today to learn more or make an appointment.