Skin Cancer Reconstruction
At Flatirons Dermatology, we perform various skin cancer reconstruction procedures
Mohs Surgery
Skin Cancer Removal: Outpatient surgery under local anesthesia (and mild sedation if desired). We remove the skin cancer and microscopically verify on site that all cancerous cells have been removed. The cure rate is 98%-99%. After the surgery to remove the cancer is complete, the cosmetic reconstruction is performed to repair the defect left from skin cancer removal.
Cosmetic Reconstruction
Most of the skin cancer reconstruction procedures we perform are done following Mohs surgery on the face and neck. Cosmetic reconstruction of the skin defect is performed using local flaps and grafts. This procedure can be performed immediately after the Mohs surgery is complete or soon after. Complex reconstruction can require staged procedures done over the course of one to two months.
Recovery and Results
The length of recovery time needed after skin cancer reconstruction varies depending on factors such as whether the reconstruction is performed as part of the initial procedure or later and the extent of surgical repair required. Our goal is to minimize scarring and changes in your appearance postoperatively. The appearance of the treated area may be further improved by using surgical correction, fat transfer, a dermal filler or CO2 laser treatments.
These procedures are usually performed 3-6 months after the initial reconstruction.