RECONSTRUCTION AFTER MOHS SURGERY
The skin cancer treatment known as Mohs micrographic surgery involves surgically removing layers of cancerous skin cells until only healthy, non-cancerous tissue is reached (referred to as ‘clear margins’). Although widely recognized as an effective treatment option for most forms of skin cancer, the Mohs procedure does involve removing a significant amount of skin and tissue, and has the potential to create a prominent or disfiguring scar, which can be particularly problematic for patients who have had Mohs surgery performed on their face.
In addition to scarring issues, Mohs surgery can also create facial defects that detrimentally impact the functionality of the facial structures (nose, eyes, lips etc.). For this reason, it is beneficial to have a facial plastic surgeon work together with your dermatologist performing the Mohs micrographic surgery, in order to ensure that the surgical scarring is as inconspicuous as possible and to minimize the risk of post-surgical functional or aesthetic complications. The repair of cosmetic and/or physical defects after Mohs surgery is a reconstructive procedure requiring specialized cosmetic surgery techniques that are designed to reduce the appearance of the scar while preserving the patient’s natural facial structure.
At The Virginia Institute for Surgical Arts, located in Chantilly, Virginia, esteemed facial plastic surgeon Dr. Trang Vo-Nguyen (Dr. V) employs her extensive facial surgery expertise, cutting edge equipment, and meticulous surgical techniques to perform complex facial procedures such as Mohs reconstructive surgery. Prior to your initial Mohs micrographic surgery, Dr. V will collaborate with your dermatologist in order to schedule your reconstructive repair at the optimal time to ensure exceptional cosmetic results and proper functioning of your facial structures.
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MOHS RECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURAL DETAILS
Your Mohs reconstruction will be performed at Dr. V’s office, and will likely be scheduled for a few hours after your Mohs micrographic surgery (typically performed at your dermatologist’s office). Mohs reconstruction can be performed under local anesthesia and usually takes less than an hour to complete (exact time frame may vary depending upon the extensiveness of the scarring and reconstruction required). During the procedure, Dr. V will employ either a local flap technique or a skin graft to repair the defect. The local flap method utilizes skin adjacent to the scar for coverage, while the skin graft procedure entails the removal and subsequent transplantation of skin from the base of the neck or around the ear. Complex defects in or around the nose region may require more than one surgery to achieve optimal reparative results.
The recovery period following Mohs reconstructive surgery is approximately one week, during which time, any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter medications. Your sutures will be removed within one week, and you will advised to use proper sun protection and medical-grade scar cream in order to facilitate proper healing. You should notice visible improvements in the appearance of your scar within 14-21 days, and these results will continue to improve gradually over the next 9-12 months.
CONTACT THE VIRGINIA INSTITUTE FOR SURGICAL ARTS
In order to ensure that you achieve optimal results from your Mohs reconstruction, it is important that you select a physician with a strong working knowledge of facial anatomy and the intricate structures of the face, such as Dr. Trang Thuy Vo-Nguyen (Dr. V). Dr. V is double board certified in the field of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and through her extensive training, research, and achievements, she has built a reputation as one of the leading facial plastic surgeons in the nation.
Dr. V understands the importance of having well-informed patients, and will take the time to explain all of your Mohs reconstruction options and procedural details so you can feel completely comfortable about your surgery. If you are interested in learning more about having your Mohs reconstructive surgery performed by Dr. V, please contact The Virginia Institute for Surgical Arts today. We look forward to speaking with you, and to scheduling your initial consultation with Dr. V.
Please call 703-327-8200 or Click Here to Schedule a Consultation.
