about reconstruction surgery
The feeling that comes with conquering skin cancer is both exhilarating and relieving. Despite this huge victory, many patients are faced with the displeasure of having an unsightly scar or blemish as a result of their cancer removal surgery. If a Mohs procedure has left a deep scar or an unattractive, pitted mark, men and women can feel discomfort or dissatisfaction with their appearance. Advancements in modern cosmetic techniques, however, have made it possible to achieve a smoother look. With skin cancer reconstruction surgery, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Andre Y. Levesque can improve the blemish left behind from Mohs. Using his skill and experience, he can tastefully repair the integrity of your skin by concealing small or large areas of tissue loss and reducing the look of shiny scar tissue. If you think skin cancer reconstruction surgery could improve the way you look and feel, schedule a one-on-one consultation at Levesque Plastic Surgery.
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Ideal candidates
Patients of all ages who have scars left behind from Mohs surgery could be ideal candidates for skin cancer reconstruction. If you are currently being treated for cancer, Dr. Levesque is happy to work with your Mohs surgeon to achieve the best result with as little wait time as possible. He can also perform cancer excision for some lower risk types of cancer and benign lesions. From there, he can appropriately mend the remaining skin.
Candidates for this procedure should have no traces of infection. They could also have:
- Scars or blemishes as a result of Mohs surgery
- Certain types of low risk cancers (Dr. Levesque will let you know during your consultation if he can remove your skin cancer; if not, he may refer you to a Mohs surgeon.)
- Lesions caused by radiation
- Depressions left by the removal of large moles
surgical technique
Skin cancer reconstruction surgery can be performed on the day of or the day after your Mohs procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Levesque will assess the condition of your skin and scar and decide the best course of action from there. Reconstruction surgery is highly personalized because every individual's area of concern is different. Depending on the blemish, your skin cancer restoration procedure could require a skin graft, the flap technique, simple surgical closure, or adjacent tissue transfer. Dr. Levesque always tries to restore the missing tissue by replacing "like with like." Careful consideration must be made for hiding potential scars in natural creases or shadow areas, which is why choosing a qualified reconstructive surgeon to perform this procedure is crucial. The surgery could last anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours based on the severity of the issue and the technique employed.
What to Expect
Following your Mohs reconstruction, you will be sent home to recover. A member of our team will give you detailed instructions to care for your incisions so they heal well. Dr. Levesque will provide or recommend a topical ointment for you to apply to the area, which will lower your risk of developing an infection. Before you are released, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled at Levesque Plastic Surgery so we can monitor your recovery. It's important to avoid any strenuous activity, such as exercise, for 2 – 3 weeks or until you are cleared to resume your normal activities. Protecting your skin from the sun is also crucial, so you should ensure that your treated area is shielded from UV rays. The results from your surgery should start to be noticeable after around 2 – 3 weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How much does skin cancer reconstruction surgery cost?
The costs for your skin cancer reconstruction will depend on the size of the area being treated, as well as the complexity of the techniques used. Other factors that will play into your costs are any anesthesia or facility fees. During your consultation, Dr. Levesque will go over your options and formulate your personalized treatment plan. From there, he will be able to estimate pricing. Our office accepts many forms of insurance, payment, and medical financing.
Will I have scars?
You will have some scarring as a result of your surgery. However, the scars you receive from skin cancer reconstruction should be significantly less drastic than what you had to start out with. It will take about 3 weeks for the treated area to heal, and your fullest results can be noticed about 6 months after your operation. Dr. Levesque uses his years of experience to ensure that any scarring from your procedure is discreet and well concealed.
Why is a plastic surgeon better than a dermatologist?
While dermatologists and Mohs surgeons are certainly qualified to remove skin cancer growths, plastic surgeons are highly trained in preserving the appearance and integrity of the skin to ensure the most natural-looking results. For reconstructive surgery, it is best for patients to select an experience, board-certified plastic surgeon so their aesthetic goals can be met safely and effectively.
When should I have my skin cancer reconstruction surgery?
You can have your skin cancer reconstruction procedure as soon as the day of or the day after your Mohs surgery. Dr. Levesque will happily coordinate with your surgeon to ensure that your results are achieved with as little wait time as possible. Some patients, however, may wish to see how their incisions heal naturally following their skin cancer excision. If this is the case, you may receive the surgery later on.
Reconstruction after mohs
Selecting a skilled surgeon is crucial if you are ready to take the last step on your road to recovery by receiving skin cancer reconstruction surgery. This procedure can have dramatic effects for patients who have dealt with anxiety or discomfort over the look of their skin resulting from Mohs. Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Andre Y. Levesque is proud to offer this procedure to Austin, TX residents who have overcome skin cancer. Contact Levesque Plastic Surgery to learn more about repair surgery after Mohs.
