skip to Main Content
Dermatologist Checking A Patient's Mole

Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Removal: All You Need to Know

If your healthcare provider has recommended a comprehensive surgery for skin cancer treatment, you might have some questions about reconstruction after that skin cancer has been removed. 

Whether you are undergoing Mohs surgery or excisional surgery, reconstruction following the procedure is an important step to make sure you feel confident and comfortable in your skin afterwards. 

At the Center for Surgical Dermatology, we have dermatologists on hand that are specifically trained in providing exceptional reconstructive surgery after skin cancer removal. Many of these techniques overlap with concepts seen in plastic surgery and our physicians are highly-specialized in skin surgery. 

Learn more about this type of procedure below, and if you have any additional questions, reach out to our clinic. 

FAQs About Reconstructive Surgery After Skin Cancer Removal 

What is Reconstructive Surgery? 

First things first: what is reconstructive surgery? Also known as reconstructive plastic surgery, this type of procedure aims to restore form and function to the areas which were treated for skin cancer

Reconstruction is also used to reduce scarring, optimize healing, and minimize the need for additional plastic surgery after skin cancer removal and treatment. 

Ultimately, cosmetic appearance and functionality are essential for many areas that may be affected by skin cancer, especially parts of the face like the lips, nose, and eyes. Professional reconstructive surgery helps you achieve a natural look and function! 

How is Reconstructive Surgery Performed? 

Your surgeon will likely use one of a few techniques: a straightforward closure, skin flap, or skin graft. For small and shallow wounds, the best choice might be to allow the wound to heal on its own (also known as healing by second intention). 

Which one your surgeon chooses will depend on the location of the affected area, the cancer’s depth, and extent of the Mohs surgery

Wound reconstruction techniques: 

  • Primary Closure – The wound is simply left to close on its own or is stitched up with sutures to foster optimal healing. 
  • Skin Flap – Nearby tissue is freed up and rearranged to cover the area. 
  • Skin Graft – A section of skin is transferred from a distant donor site to cover the area. 

When is Reconstruction After Mohs Surgery Performed? 

At the Center for Surgical Dermatology, our dermatologists will perform reconstruction on the same day, immediately following Mohs surgery

Our dermatologists are highly experienced in plastic surgery, and all of our surgical procedures are done in our surgical office. We use local anesthesia, rather than general anesthesia, for a safer and more comfortable procedure. 

Why is Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Removal Important? 

While Mohs surgery is one of the best skin cancer treatments due to its high cure rate, low recurrence rates, and healthy tissue preservation, there is still a risk of needing to remove significant amounts of skin to clear a cancer.

With reconstructive surgery, an experienced surgeon can minimize scarring potential, optimize functionality, and address other irregularities to significantly improve the appearance of the treatment area. 

Reconstructive Surgery at the Center of Surgical Dermatology 

At the Center for Surgical Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons put their many skills to work optimizing your post-op reconstructive surgery. 

Using the plastic surgery skills they obtained during dermatology residencies and the advanced reconstructive techniques they learned during fellowship training, they can help you enjoy life after skin cancer removal with natural form and function. 

Learn more about our reconstruction surgery after skin cancer treatment by contacting our clinic today! Reach out online or give us a call at 614-847-4100

Trusted Surgical Dermatology in Central Ohio

Center for Surgical Dermatology is the largest medical and surgical skin treatment and wellness facility in Central Ohio. Since 2007, our board-certified dermatologists, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons, and caring professional staff have provided patients with treatment they can trust in an environment second to none. Learn more about our state-of-the-art Dermatology Center before booking your appointment today.

Back To Top