
When the Mohs procedure is complete, your Mohs surgeon will discuss with you the best options for repair of the surgical wound, based on achieving the best cosmetic results for you.
Typically, recovery is fairly quick, but will depend on the location and size of the cancer, the resulting defect, the suturing method, and whether reconstructive surgery is necessary. It can take up to a year to see the final cosmetic result. Proper wound care is essential to a good result.
Immediate wound care instructions will be given to each patient, with the goal of minimizing scarring, and protecting the wound from infection.
The aim of Mohs surgery is to eliminate all the cancerous tissue, retain the most amount of healthy tissue and produce the smallest scar possible. Reconstruction is repair of the wound caused by removal of the malignant tumor. Reconstruction may be necessary when the wound is large. It can be done by the Mohs surgeon or a plastic surgeon.
Most reconstruction can occur the same day as the Mohs surgery, however, when the repair is to be completed by a plastic surgeon it may be scheduled for another day.
When you consult a Mohs surgeon at Advantage Dermatology you will discuss the potential for reconstructive surgery, and options. But, there is no way to know whether you might need a graft or flap of skin to cover the wound until the tumor is removed. When the cancer has been removed, you and your Advantage Dermatology Mohs Surgeon will discuss your options on how to repair the wound to achieve optimal cosmetic results.
The wound may be stitched together with sutures or application of a skin graft. Mohs surgeons are trained in reconstructive plastic surgery as well as Mohs surgery. In the event of a graft, correct post-reconstruction care is essential to the viability of the graft.
In sunny Jacksonville, Florida, Advantage Dermatology offers the best patient care available. Our surgical services include Mohs Surgery and reconstructive treatments. We do everything possible to minimize scarring and let you get back to the life you love.