What Happens After Mohs Surgery on the Face?

Once Mohs surgery removes skin cancer from your face, you may need a simple closure or reconstructive surgery. The right repair depends on the size, depth, and location of the opening, as well as how it affects nearby tissue and facial movement.

At Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery in Buckhead, we work with your dermatologist or Mohs surgeon ahead of time whenever possible. Dr. Benjamin C. Stong is dual board-certified in both otolaryngology-head and neck surgery and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, so you get care that balances facial function and appearance.

Why Can the Opening Be Larger Than the Spot You Saw?

Mohs surgery removes cancer in thin layers and examines the margins under a microscope. The process continues until no cancer cells remain at the edges. According to the National Library of Medicine, this tissue-sparing approach preserves as much healthy skin as possible.

The final opening can end up wider or deeper than what you first saw. We won’t know exactly how to repair it until your Mohs surgeon sees the full size and shape of the cleared area.

How Do We Choose a Reconstructive Technique?

We examine the defect and the surrounding facial structures before choosing a closure. The nose, lips, eyelids, ears, and scalp each have different skin movement and functional demands.

Depending on your needs, Mohs reconstruction at Kalos may involve:

• Directly closing the opening when the edges come together safely
• Moving nearby skin with a local or regional flap
• Using a skin graft for a larger or more complex area
• Planning a custom repair around delicate facial structures

We focus on protecting how your face works, supporting healing, and placing incisions with care. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, skin cancer reconstruction will leave a scar, even when your surgeon works to keep changes in appearance as minimal as possible.

When Should You Plan for Reconstruction?

You can start the conversation before Mohs surgery. Contacting us before your scheduled procedure gives our team time to communicate with your Mohs surgeon and discuss likely scenarios.

At Kalos, some reconstructions can be done right in our Buckhead office with local anesthesia. The timing and setting depend on where the opening is, how complex the repair will be, your health, and the plan you and your surgical teams decide on together.

What Should You Expect During Healing?

You may notice swelling, bruising, tightness, or visible incision lines after facial reconstruction. Healing takes time, and scars will change slowly as you recover.

You’ll get clear instructions for wound care, activity, follow-up, and what to watch for. Reconstruction closes the opening left after cancer removal, but it can’t guarantee an invisible scar or prevent future skin cancers.

FAQs About Mohs Reconstruction

Does every facial Mohs procedure need a plastic surgeon?

No. Some openings can close on their own or heal without extra reconstruction. Where the opening is, how big it is, how it affects function, and your goals all help decide if facial plastic surgery makes sense.

Can reconstruction happen the same day as Mohs surgery?

It’s sometimes possible if the teams coordinate and the opening is right for same-day repair. We’ll confirm the timing after we review your treatment plan.

Plan Mohs Reconstruction in Atlanta

If you’re getting ready for Mohs surgery on your face, reach out to Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery in Buckhead before your procedure. Our team can work with your Mohs surgeon, walk you through your options, and help you plan your reconstruction with Dr. Stong.