Skin cancer is a serious concern that many people may face at some point in their lives. Although it is crucial to take preventive measures, such as using sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure, sometimes it may not be enough. Mohs reconstructive surgery may be required for those diagnosed with skin cancer, especially those with cancer on the head or face.
Mohs reconstructive surgery is a procedure that involves removing the cancerous tissue layer by layer until the cancer is completely eliminated. Your surgeon then reconstructs the area to restore its appearance.
Dr. Benjamin C. Stong at Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery, LLC in Atlanta specializes in Mohs surgery, working closely with your cancer surgeon to perform the reconstructive measures necessary to restore your appearance.
Mohs Reconstructive Surgery
The advantages of Mohs reconstructive surgery are many. It is an effective treatment for skin cancer with a high success rate. Moreover, it is a minimally invasive procedure with minimal scarring and recovery time. Most patients can also go home on the same day since the surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis.
Depending on the location and extent of the cancer, various Mohs reconstructive surgical procedures can be used. Flap reconstruction, skin grafts and tissue expansion are the most common types.
Flap Reconstruction
Flap reconstruction entails using skin from a nearby area to repair the site where the cancer was removed. Dr. Stong cuts a flap of skin from one location and moves it to the area where the cancer was removed, sewing it into place and allowing it to heal.
Skin Grafts
Skin grafts involve taking skin from another part of the body and using it to cover the area where the cancer was removed. A small piece of skin is removed from one site and placed over the site where the cancer was removed. The skin graft is then sewn into place and allowed to heal.
Tissue Expansion
Tissue expansion entails gradually stretching the skin in the area where the cancer was removed using a balloon-like device over several weeks or months. Dr. Stong removes the device once the skin has been stretched enough and uses the stretched skin to reconstruct the area.
Choose a Mohs Surgery Expert in Atlanta
While Mohs reconstructive surgery is a safe and effective treatment for skin cancer, it is vital to select a qualified and experienced surgeon to perform the procedure. Dr. Stong is a double board-certified and fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial plastic reconstructive surgery. Patients should also carefully adhere to all post-operative instructions to ensure a successful outcome.
Mohs reconstructive surgery is an excellent option for individuals diagnosed with skin cancer. It is a minimally invasive and effective procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis. The best type of Mohs reconstructive surgery for each patient will depend on the location and extent of the cancer.
If you have recently received a skin cancer diagnosis, contact Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery, LLC in Atlanta, and schedule a consultation to discuss Mohs reconstructive surgery with Dr. Benjamin Stong.
