Mohs Reconstruction in Middletown, NJ
Mohs surgery is one of the most effective procedures to remove skin cancers without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue. Board-certified Red Bank plastic surgeon Dr. John Taylor performs Mohs reconstructive surgery on patients in Red Bank, NJ, who have had Mohs surgery and are in need of reconstructive surgery to correct the visible results from Mohs surgery.
What Is Mohs Reconstruction?
Mohs reconstruction is a surgical procedure performed following Mohs surgery. Sometimes surgical reconstruction after skin cancer removal is necessary, especially to obtain the best cosmetic results in a highly visible area, such as the face.
Benefits of Mohs Reconstruction
Reconstruction is often necessary following Mohs surgery to reshape areas of the body that may have been altered in the process of removing skin cancer. Mohs reconstruction is typically performed on visible areas of the body and offers the following benefits:
- Reshapes the area where surgery is performed to a normal appearance
- Less visible scarring
- Allows removal without damage to surrounding areas
How Is Mohs Reconstruction Performed?
Mohs surgery involves removing thin layers of skin cancer one at a time. The surgeon begins by removing the most visible parts of the skin cancer then moves to the next layers of skin cancer that are not visible or obvious. Skin cancers typically grow underneath the surface of the skin so it is necessary to make sure that all of the cancer has been removed. To be successful, the process continues until layers of skin show no evidence of cancer. If this procedure goes deep into the layers of the skin, there may be significant scarring or visible defects from the procedure itself. Mohs reconstruction is an excellent option to correct and reshape the areas damaged by the surgery itself.
Skin grafts (full-thickness or split-thickness), skin flaps (rotational or transpositional), and Z-plasty are frequently used techniques to ensure optimal healing and aesthetic outcomes. Sometimes these need to be performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia in the hospital, but patients generally go home the same day. Dr. Taylor can also coordinate scheduling with a Mohs surgeon to perform reconstructive surgery the same day as or the day after Mohs surgery.
Preparing for Mohs Reconstruction
Depending on when the reconstruction is performed, there are several guidelines that we recommend for patients having Mohs reconstruction:
- Overall health check-up prior to surgeries
- Consultation with Dr. Taylor to discuss and evaluate the skin cancer, as well as the available areas for grafting
- Mental health checkup to ensure understanding and expectations of reconstructive surgery
- Stop taking medications, vitamins, and supplements that may thin the blood prior to surgery
- Stop smoking
- Arrange for transportation to and from the reconstruction procedure
Recovery from Mohs Reconstruction
The recovery from Mohs reconstruction typically involves rest and no strenuous activities for several days to a couple of weeks following surgery. Depending on the area of the reconstructive surgery, more guidelines will be given during the consultation. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to examine the incision and remove sutures if necessary.
How Much Does Mohs Reconstruction Cost?
The cost of Mohs reconstruction varies with each patient depending on the extent of the cancer. Most health insurance plans cover the cost of procedures like Mohs reconstruction to remove skin cancer because it is medically necessary. We can help you determine if your health insurance includes coverage for this procedure. Additionally, during your consultation we can go over our payment options that include financing through CareCredit®. We accept cash, checks, and most major credit cards.
Is Mohs Reconstruction Right for Me?
If you are having skin cancer removed via Mohs surgery and want to have reconstruction to reshape or reduce scarring in a visible part of the body, Mohs reconstruction may be right for you.
Why Choose Dr. Taylor for Mohs Reconstruction?
Dr. Taylor takes great pride in performing reconstructive surgery on patients who have visible deformities such as those resulting from Mohs surgery to remove skin cancer. He combines his vast knowledge and experience of the science of medicine with his passion for the art of the human body to re-contour areas affected by Mohs surgery.
What to Expect During Your Mohs Reconstruction Consultation
During your consultation with Dr. Taylor for reconstructive surgery following Mohs surgery, he will review your medical history as well as the records regarding your skin cancer. He will also evaluate the area where the skin cancer is located to determine the best course of action for Mohs reconstructive surgery. He will also take time to answer any questions you may have regarding the procedure and how it works with the cancer removal surgery.
At Allure Plastic Surgery Center, Dr. John Taylor offers plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures as well as non-invasive advanced skin care treatments to patients in Red Bank, NJ, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to set up your consultation today.
