Mohs
Reconstruction
Restoring Form and Function After Skin Cancer Removal
Mohs surgery is a highly effective treatment for skin cancer, but it often leaves patients with concerns about their appearance after cancer removal. Mohs reconstruction is the specialized process of restoring the natural appearance and function of an area after skin cancer has been removed. At Rawnsley Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. Jeffrey Rawnsley offers advanced reconstructive techniques for patients who have undergone Mohs surgery for skin cancer treatment.
Understanding Mohs Surgery and Reconstruction
What is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise technique used to treat skin cancer by removing thin layers of skin containing cancer cells. A dermatologic surgeon examines each layer under a microscope until only cancer-free tissue remains. This approach preserves as much healthy skin as possible while ensuring the cancer has been completely removed.
Mohs surgery is particularly valuable for treating:
- Basal cell carcinomas
- Squamous cell carcinomas
- Certain types of melanomas
- High-risk skin cancers
- Skin cancer of the face, where tissue preservation is crucial
- Recurrent skin cancers
The Need for Reconstruction
While Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate for many forms of skin cancer, it can leave a surgical site that requires reconstruction, especially when:
- The skin cancer was large or invasive
- The cancer was located in a cosmetically or functionally sensitive area
- A full thickness defect remains after cancer removal
- The surgical site crosses important anatomical boundaries
Reconstruction after Mohs surgery is often recommended to optimize both aesthetic and functional outcomes, particularly for patients with skin cancer of the face, where visible scarring can be a significant concern.
Dr. Rawnsley's Approach to Mohs Reconstruction
Immediate or Delayed Reconstruction
Depending on your case, reconstruction may be performed immediately after Mohs surgery or scheduled as a separate procedure once you're confirmed cancer-free.
Customized Treatment Plans
Comprehensive Techniques
Focus on Natural Results
Reconstruction Methods
Primary Closure
For smaller defects, the edges of the wound may be brought together with advanced suturing techniques. This simple approach works well when there is sufficient surrounding skin flexibility.
Local Flap Reconstruction
A local flap uses nearby healthy skin to cover the defect. The skin is carefully repositioned while maintaining its blood supply. This technique is particularly effective for preserving natural contours and is commonly used in nasal reconstruction and other facial areas.
Skin Grafts
When a local flap isn't possible, a skin graft may be used. This involves taking skin from another area of the body (typically behind the ear or from the neck) and transplanting it to cover the defect. While grafts can be very effective, they may not perfectly match the color and texture of surrounding skin.
Complex Reconstructions
For larger or more challenging defects, especially those involving multiple tissue layers or sensitive structures like the eyelid, Dr. Rawnsley performs complex reconstructions that may combine multiple techniques to restore both appearance and function.
The Reconstruction Process
Consultation and Planning
If you've been diagnosed with skin cancer requiring Mohs surgery, Dr. Rawnsley can consult with you before your Mohs procedure to discuss reconstruction options. Alternatively, if you've already undergone Mohs surgery, Dr. Rawnsley will evaluate your surgical site and develop a reconstruction plan.
Procedure Details
- Restore natural contours
- Minimize visible scarring
- Preserve or restore function
- Create a natural-looking result
Recovery and Healing
- Initial healing typically takes 1-2 weeks
- A bandage over the wound will protect the area initially
- Sutures are usually removed within 5-14 days, depending on location
- Swelling and bruising gradually subside over 2-3 weeks
- Complete healing and scar maturation may take several months
Timing of Reconstruction
Reconstruction following Mohs surgery may be performed:
- Immediately after your Mohs surgeon confirms all cancer has been removed
- Delayed by a few days to allow for initial wound healing or when coordination between specialists is needed
- Secondary reconstruction may be considered if your scar has healed but requires revision for improved appearance
Dr. Rawnsley will discuss the optimal timing for your specific case.
Why Choose Dr. Rawnsley for Mohs Reconstruction
Dr. Jeffrey Rawnsley brings unique qualifications to your Mohs reconstruction:
- Double board certification in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery
- Specialized training in complex facial reconstruction
- Academic leadership as Clinical Associate Professor at UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine
- Collaboration with leading dermatologists and Mohs surgeons
- Aesthetic expertise that complements the technical aspects of reconstruction
His comprehensive background in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures allows Dr. Rawnsley to address not only the functional aspects of reconstruction but also the aesthetic outcomes that are so important to patients.
Is Mohs Reconstruction
Right for You?
You may benefit from consultation about Mohs reconstruction if:
- You're planning to undergo Mohs surgery for skin cancer
- You've recently had Mohs surgery and are concerned about scarring
- You've undergone Mohs surgery in the past and are unhappy with the appearance of the surgical site
- Your health care provider has recommended reconstruction after skin cancer removal
Dr. Rawnsley can determine if reconstruction is appropriate and which approach would best meet your needs.
Your Next Step
If you've been diagnosed with skin cancer requiring Mohs surgery or have already undergone the procedure, Dr. Rawnsley offers the specialized expertise needed to restore both appearance and function to the affected area.