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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.

 

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.