What to Know About Plastic Surgery After Mohs Procedure
When we talk with patients about Mohs surgery Delaware, one of the questions we hear is what will happen after the skin cancer has been removed. In many cases, the area can be repaired by the Mohs surgeon or allowed to heal naturally. However, some defects are more complex and require specialized reconstruction. At Premier Dermatology, our Mohs surgeons work alongside board-certified plastic surgeons, giving us the ability to address both the cancer and the reconstruction when needed.
Why Reconstruction May Be Needed After Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is designed to remove skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Once we have confirmed that the cancer has been completely removed, we evaluate the resulting wound and determine the best way to repair it. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that the wound may be repaired in several ways depending on its size and location, including stitches, a skin graft, or allowing the area to heal naturally.
The size and location of the defect are important considerations. A small area may require only stitches, while a larger wound may benefit from a skin graft or flap. Reconstruction can be particularly important when Mohs surgery involves the nose, eyelids, ears, lips, or another area where even a small change can affect appearance or function.
When a Plastic Surgeon Can Help
Not every patient needs a plastic surgeon after Mohs surgery. We routinely repair many defects ourselves. But when a wound is especially large, deep, or located in a challenging area, having a board-certified plastic surgeon involved can make a significant difference.
We may recommend plastic surgery when:
- The defect is too large for a straightforward closure.
- The wound involves the nose, eyelids, lips, or ears.
- The repair could affect breathing, movement, or another important function.
- A skin graft or local flap may provide a better result.
- The location requires more complex reconstruction to preserve facial contours.
Our goal is always to provide a repair that supports both healing and function while creating the most natural result possible.
The Benefit of Having Mohs and Plastic Surgery Expertise Together
One advantage of receiving care at Premier Dermatology is that we have specialized Mohs trained surgeons and board-certified plastic surgeons within the same practice. This matters because we cannot always predict exactly what a defect will look like until the cancer has been completely removed.
We have seen patients referred to us after another practice was unable to close a complicated Mohs defect. In some situations, the wound involves a particularly difficult location or is simply larger than expected. Having reconstructive expertise available means we can develop an appropriate plan rather than asking the patient to find another surgeon on their own.
If you are looking for a Mohs surgery specialist in Middletown Delaware, ask about what reconstructive options are available if you need them. Having that conversation before surgery can help you understand what to expect.
What Should You Expect After Mohs Surgery Delaware?
Every patient's reconstruction is different. Depending on the wound, we may recommend:
- Allowing the area to heal naturally
- Closing the wound with stitches
- Using a skin graft
- Using a local flap or another reconstructive technique
The American Cancer Society notes that Mohs surgery can preserve healthy tissue around the cancer, which can be helpful when planning the repair. Our Mohs doctors will explain the recommended approach and what you can expect during healing, including follow-up care and scar management.
Comprehensive Care From Our Team
When you choose Premier Dermatology, you are not only choosing a team experienced in treating skin cancer. You also have access to reconstructive expertise when your case requires it. For patients considering Mohs surgery Delaware, that coordinated approach can provide peace of mind from diagnosis through reconstruction. Contact our team to learn more about Mohs surgery and the treatment options available for your individual needs.