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Many people who have surgery to remove skin cancer are left with a wound that can be bothersome and a reminder of the cancer. Luckily, with skin cancer reconstructive surgery, you can have the wound erased, feel completely healed, and enjoy your life cancer-free.
What is Skin Cancer Reconstruction?
Skin cancer reconstruction is a type of facial plastic surgery that is typically done after Mohs surgery, an advanced skin cancer surgery that uses surgical excision to completely remove facial skin cancers while also minimizing the loss of healthy tissue.
However, after this form of skin cancer removal, there is usually a significant wound left behind. That’s where skin cancer reconstruction comes in. There are a variety of techniques used for reconstruction depending on how large the wound is and the results you’re looking for.
The techniques include a layer linear closure, local flap reconstruction, and skin graft reconstruction.
Dr. Anthony Wilson
When you are seeking a qualified and talented plastic surgeon, look no further than board-certified Dr. Anthony Wilson with AW Plastic Surgery. Dr. Wilson has a passion for both aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and the body. He takes deep satisfaction in giving his patients the tools they need to feel confident, whole, and beautiful, no matter where they are in their aesthetic journey.
Dr. Wilson is recognized as an expert in cosmetic facial enhancement through both surgical and non-surgical measures. He is a national trainer for Revance and attends industry training to stay on top of the latest techniques. He conducts a multi-layered approach to aging and aesthetics, combining skincare and surgery to achieve a customized, natural result. Part of AW Plastic Surgery’s positive patient results stem from a stellar supporting group of aesthetic professionals. Dr. Wilson is backed by a strong team of injectors, nurses, and aestheticians at AW Plastic Surgery who ensure a high level of service.
Learn MoreWho is a Good Candidate for Skin Cancer Reconstruction?
Nearly anyone who has had Mohs surgery can have skin cancer reconstruction. If the cancer treatment has been completed and you are in good overall physical health, you should be an ideal candidate for this procedure.
We also recommend it for nonsmokers. If you are a smoker, we recommend you quit for at least three weeks before and after the procedure.
We usually see patients who have had:
- Squamous cell skin cancers/squamous cell carcinoma
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Other nonmelanoma skin cancers
The Skin Cancer Reconstruction Procedure
The skin cancer reconstruction procedure begins with Dr. Wilson examining the site of the cancer removal and determining the best technique for the reconstruction. Reconstruction is typically done the day following the initial removal, but at times, reconstruction is done immediately following the removal. Patients with small excisions are typically candidates for reconstruction on the day of the initial procedure.
Patients requiring sedation for larger reconstructions and those patients who elect for sedation will be done in an outpatient surgical setting.
The excision site is treated in one of three ways. If the skin cancer defect site is small and in an area with sufficient skin mobility, Dr. Wilson will perform a layered linear closure, which is much like other excision sites.
If the facial skin cancer defects are larger or there is insufficient tissue like in areas near the eyes or nose, Dr. Wilson will perform either a local flap, where tissue is transferred from the immediate vicinity, or a skin graft, where tissue is transferred from a distant area. The decision to have skin grafts or a flap closure is dependent on the location of the site as well as your preference.
For patients undergoing reconstruction in the operating room, it is essential that you do not eat or drink after midnight the night prior to your procedure.
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Recovery
As you recover, you’ll want to follow Dr. Wilson’s aftercare instructions as closely as possible. Avoid getting the area wet for the first 48 hours, and when you do shower, avoid scrubbing, soaking, or direct water pressure on the incision. You’ll also want to apply bacitracin ointment to the incision twice per day.
To reduce any swelling you have, keep your head elevated while you sleep and avoid picking up anything heavy. You will want to get up and walk around during your recovery, as it will help the healing process.
Additionally, take any pain medications as prescribed and do not use ice unless specifically instructed to do so.
If you have had a skin graft performed, you will also have a bolster over the graft that will remain in place for seven days. You will want to avoid getting the bolster wet. You will want to also avoid getting the graft wet for the first three weeks.
As for scarring, Dr. Wilson will recommend Biocorneum scar gel, and in some cases, laser therapy can be used to reduce the appearance of scar tissue.
Schedule A Consultation
While skin cancer removal is vital to ensure you’re healthy, having a wound from the surgery can be a negative reminder of your cancer. Skin cancer reconstruction can help you erase the wound and feel fully healed.
If you have skin cancer removal coming up and want skin cancer reconstruction the same day or the day after, schedule a consultation with Dr. Wilson today. Call our Portsmouth, NH office, or use our online contact form.
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