Facial Reconstruction After Mohs Surgery - Fort Lauderdale / Boca Raton / Miami
This broad division of facial plastic surgery varies from simple wound closures to more complex facial reconstruction. Dr. Greene has extensive experience in the reconstruction of Mohs surgical defects, and most of these procedures can be performed in his office procedure suite. Mohs micrographic surgery is a procedure that is performed by dermatologists with advanced training in the removal of certain skin cancer types. These procedures are performed in the dermatologist’s office. Following removal of the skin cancer, a surgical defect that almost always requires repair remains.
This patient had a Mohs defect below her left eye.
An advancement
flap was performed
to prevent any lower eyelid malposition.
The patient was extremely pleased with the final appearance of the scar.
This patient had a medium-sized Mohs defect of the nasal tip.
A bilobe flap
reconstruction gave the patient an excellent result.
Dr. Greene sees patients in his office after the Mohs surgery has been performed. In the majority of cases, he repairs the defects in his office on the same day as the Mohs surgery. However, if the defect is extensive, he may choose to take the patient to an operating room setting for the repair. Dr. Greene uses a wide variety of techniques to optimize wound healing and final cosmetic result. He typically creates exceptional cosmetic results with all of these reconstructions.
If you plan to have a Mohs surgery performed for a skin cancer of the face, you can ask your Mohs surgeon about the possibility of repair with a facial plastic surgeon. You can also ask your Mohs surgeon if they would like to contact Dr. Greene to discuss your treatment. Dr Greene's office is equipped for Mohs reconstruction procedures on the same day as your Mohs surgery.
To schedule your consultation for reconstruction after Mohs surgery, call 954-651-6600 or email us at GreeneMD@DrRyanGreene.com.
Who is a candidate for reconstruction after Mohs surgery?
Mohs surgery is a procedure performed by dermatologists that removes certain skin cancers. When this done on the face, it can lead to complex defects that may cause disfiguring scars. Facial plastic surgeons are often asked to assist in the reconstruction to optimize the cosmetic result. Any patient who plans to undergo Mohs surgery and is concerned about the appearance of the eventual scar is an excellent candidate for a reconstruction by a facial plastic surgeon.
Why is the choice of surgeon important for a facial reconstruction after Mohs surgery?
Mohs surgery can lead to very large and complex defects. These can affect the function of facial structures such as the lips, eyes, and nose. Reconstructing these surgical defects takes a significant amount of skill. Dr. Greene has extensive experience reconstructing these defects.
Where are facial reconstruction procedures performed?
The Mohs surgery is typically done in a dermatologist’s office. The reconstruction can take place in Dr. Greene’s office or in the operating room, depending on the defect. This is often done on the same day as the Mohs surgery.
What is the length of the procedure?
The time of surgery can vary significantly, depending on the extent of the defect.
How is a facial reconstructed performed?
Dr. Greene utilizes a number of different techniques to reconstruct Mohs surgery defects. He will sometimes used a local flap, in which he uses skin next to the defect for coverage. This involves carefully placed incisions to help move the skin over the defect. At times, a skin graft is used to cover the defect. This graft is taken from the skin around the ear or at the base of the neck. For very complex defects on the nose, multiple surgeries may be necessary.
What is recovery like after a facial reconstruction?
Recovery typically takes less than one week. Bandages are removed after one to two days, and sutures are removed within one week. Discomfort is usually easily controlled with medication. While final scar maturation can take up to one year, the scar should look well healed within two to three weeks. For most patients, we recommend the use of a medial-grade scar cream. All patients should also apply sunscreen while outdoors to optimize the appearance of the scar.
Scar Revision Frequently Asked Questions
What is scar revision?
Scar revision is a procedure designed to transform an unsightly scar into a well-camouflaged thin line that blends in nicely to the normal contours and creases of the face. Scar revision may involve a variety of procedures and techniques, such as lasers and steroid injections.
Who is a good candidate for scar revision?
A patient who decides to undergo a scar revision must be aware that the purpose of scar revision is to minimize the appearance of a scar, but it can never completely eliminate a scar.
Where does scar revision take place?
Scar revision procedures may be performed in an outpatient surgical center or a hospital.
What type of anesthesia is used for scar revision?
Local anesthesia may be used for many cases, but at times sedation may be used as well.
What is the recovery like after scar revision?
The degree of recovery depends on the particular technique or procedure used. After surgery, the scar will likely be covered with a bandage that remains in place for a few days. Sutures are removed within one week. Some swelling and bruising may occur after surgery. The scar will likely be red initially, but will fade with time to blend with the surrounding skin.
Does insurance cover the cost of scar revision?
Insurance may cover at least a portion of procedures performed to improve scars caused by injury.
Is it possible to get financing for scar revision?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures and Dr. Greene’s staff can provide you with more information
