Mohs Reconstruction
Mohs reconstruction is a type of plastic surgery that can be done after Mohs surgery, which is a procedure used to eliminate skin cancer. While Mohs surgery can save lives, it can leave a gap in the skin tissue. Restoring your skin is possible by undergoing reliable Mohs reconstruction in Monmouth County with Dr. Michael Nagy, board-certified plastic surgeon.
What Is Mohs Reconstruction?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a procedure used to remove skin cancer with precision, thoroughness, and success. This procedure removes not only the tumor on the surface of the skin but any roots below the skin as well. This ensures the complete removal of the tumor and helps prevent cancer from recurring.
Despite its high level of efficiency, Mohs surgery often leaves behind large wounds or scars in prominent areas such as the face or hand. These deformities can be emotionally upsetting and a constant reminder of the skin cancer that once existed there. Fortunately, plastic surgery can be performed to repair the wound and restore your skin to a more healthy and natural appearance.
Reconstruction after Mohs surgery can often be performed the same day or the day after the removal procedure. Reconstructive procedures are performed on an individualized basis, depending on each patient’s wound, and can involve a skin graft, flap of skin, stitching, or surgical closure. While complete tumor resection is the main goal, your doctor also takes your appearance into consideration by leaving much healthy tissue as possible. Reconstruction uses this remaining healthy tissue to carefully restore the area for both effective and aesthetic results.
Am I a Good Candidate for Mohs Reconstruction?
Anybody who underwent Mohs surgery can be a good candidate for skin reconstruction. As long as you’re done with your cancer treatment and you are in good physical health, you can be a candidate for Mohs reconstructive surgery.
Your Mohs Reconstruction Consultation
During the consultation, Dr. Nagy will thoroughly discuss the procedure with you and make sure you understand its goals and potential complications. You will also be advised on how to prepare for your Mohs reconstruction.
How to Prepare for Mohs Reconstruction
Several weeks before the procedure: Just like any surgical procedure, avoid smoking for 4 to 6 weeks before and after the Mohs reconstruction procedure. Drinking alcohol should also be avoided for at least 48 hours before and after the procedure. This will promote a faster healing process.
You may need to take off from work after your Mohs reconstruction surgery, depending on what type of work you do. Dr. Nagy will discuss this with you during your consultation. Complete healing can take up to a week or more, depending on how extensive your reconstruction was. Hold off on any strenuous activities for at least a week after the procedure, or until you are fully healed.
A week before the procedure: Mohs reconstruction patients may be asked to take a break from medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Patients should also stop taking herbal supplements like vitamin E, C, and omega 3. This will prevent any risk of excessive bleeding.
On the day of the procedure: Maintain good hygiene and take a bath or shower on the day of the procedure. Wash your hair thoroughly with mild products. Make sure to clean the area to avoid any risk of infection.
Wear loose clothing or a button-down top to help you change clothes easily. Preparing warm and comfortable clothes during the recovery period should help you improve your recovery experience.
Arrange for someone to accompany you on the day of the procedure in order to get as much assistance as possible.
It will also be a good idea to plan your meals ahead of time. Proper nutrition and complete sleep can boost your body’s natural healing process.
Where Is Mohs Reconstruction Performed?
Mohs reconstruction surgery is usually performed in the office or a surgery center. It is an outpatient surgery procedure, meaning you go home after the procedure is done. The length of the procedure depends on the area being treated.
The Procedure
First, anesthesia will be administered. The type of anesthesia to be used will be based on the specific procedure you are having, along with the doctor’s preference and any other medical conditions you may have.
Once anesthesia is administered, Dr. Nagy will begin your Mohs reconstruction. There are a few types of techniques that can be used depending on the location, size, and type of skin cancer that you had. These include:
- Flap surgery
- Primary closure
- Skin grafting
- Structural grafting
A Mohs reconstruction procedure may be performed in multiple stages based on the extent of your skin trauma.
The Recovery Process
After the surgery, you might be given a prescription for antibiotics, as well as instructions for returning home. You will also be given directions on how to recognize an infection.
If you’re given antibiotics, particularly after a flap procedure, make sure to finish the whole recommended dose. Watch out for a fever over 101 degrees, redness, pain, or discharge, and give Dr. Nagy a call as soon as you notice them.
How Much Does Mohs Reconstruction Cost?
The cost of a Mohs reconstruction procedure depends on the number of stages required to achieve the results for your unique condition. Typically, the price varies by the location and extent of your skin lesions.
Get in Touch
Mohs reconstruction is just as valuable as removing your skin cancer. Schedule your Mohs reconstruction in Monmouth County with Dr. Michael Nagy to restore both the look and function of your skin. Please reach out to us at 732-282-0002 if you have additional questions about Mohs reconstructive surgery—we are happy to assist you.