Skin cancer removal, especially when it is on a sensitive area like your nose, cheek or forehead, can affect your self-image and confidence. Fortunately, due to the advanced techniques involved in Mohs reconstruction, the process of curing your facial skin cancer no longer has to compromise your aesthetic. Mansfield patients who are looking for a Mohs reconstruction surgeon can meet with Dr. Matthew H. Steele, MD and learn how he can skillfully address the skin defects that result from skin cancer excision.

What Is Mohs Reconstruction?

Mohs reconstruction surgery is an innovative procedure that involves restoring the skin’s appearance and function after cancer cells are removed. It is performed using a highly precise technique that maximizes the cure rate, leaves minimal defects in the skin, and preserves as much healthy skin as possible. Depending on the size of the area affected, the cancer excision process can result in significant tissue loss that can alter your appearance and impair function.

However, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Steele, is skilled in restoring your skin’s function, symmetry, and fullness after skin cancer surgery. Mohs reconstruction is particularly effective in addressing skin cancers affecting sensitive areas, including the nose, ears, lips, eyelids, scalp, and neck..

Reconstruction Techniques

Dr. Steele has expertise in various methods of Mohs facial reconstruction that involve using skin and local tissues to help cancer survivors in Mansfield restore their looks and confidence. Here are some common approaches and their applications:

  • Flap technique – Uses healthy tissue adjacent to the skin cancer defect to reconstruct and restore a normal appearance (this is the most common facial reconstruction method).
  • Cartilage grafting — In some cases, cartilage may be harvested from the ear to reconstruct and provide stability to the lower portion of the nose.
  • Tissue expansion — A tissue expander can be placed under the skin to expand the available tissue for flap reconstruction. This can be used for large scalp defects when a skin graft is unacceptable.
  • Skin grafts — Skin grafts are transplanted from a remote site to fill small defects on the face. The skin is typically harvested from the neck, but in some cases can harvested from the forehead or excess eyelid skin.

We will consider the size, shape, and location of the defect when determining which technique is right for you. The best method for your Mohs reconstruction will ultimately depend on your medical history, previous skin cancer treatments, and individual cosmetic goals.

Who Is An Appropriate Candidate?

If you have had skin cancer lesions removed from cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas such as the face, you may be an appropriate candidate for Mohs reconstructive surgery. We also recommend this procedure for patients who have skin cancers with a high risk of recurrence, have cancer lesions in a large or complex area, or have not responded to other methods such as cauterization or treatment with liquid nitrogen. While Mohs is possible in such cases, patients who have experienced these complications may also require more extensive care.

Importantly, not all skin cancers qualify for Mohs surgery. The best way to know if this advanced procedure is right for you is by scheduling a consultation with our dedicated team. We can evaluate your individual circumstances to determine if Mohs is an appropriate treatment option for you, and then develop a care plan.

Mohs reconstructive surgery is a highly individualized process, capable of addressing each patient’s unique situation.

Restore Your Skin in Mansfield Today With Mohs Reconstruction Surgery

Mohs reconstruction is an advanced procedure that offers aesthetic solutions for skin cancer removal. Not every plastic surgeon offers it. Our dedicated team understands that healing from a skin cancer diagnosis is not just on the inside, but on the outside as well. Schedule your initial consultation today to talk with Dr. Steele about the best way to put this chapter behind you and improve your skin.