Mohs
Reconstruction
(Mohs Surgery Repair)
Mohs Reconstruction (Mohs Surgery Repair)
Mohs Reconstruction in NYC, After Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is one of the most popular and successful methods for removing basal cell, squamous cell, and other nonmelanoma skin cancers. During Mohs surgery, thin layers of cancer-containing skin are removed and microscopically examined onsite. The excision procedure is repeated until only cancer-free tissue remains. While Mohs surgery helps to minimize both the amount of tissue removed as well as damage to surrounding healthy tissue, after the procedure a skin deficit will exist where the cancerous skin was removed. When a wound is created on the face after Mohs surgery — whether the resulting deficit is either large or small — it can result in obvious, and even disfiguring, scars. Mohs reconstruction is a surgical technique to close wounds and repair skin defects after Mohs surgery in order to ensure that any resulting scars are as inconspicuous as possible. As a plastic surgeon with expertise in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, as well as advanced aesthetic training, Dr. Levine offers a variety of sophisticated Mohs reconstruction techniques that produce outstanding, natural-looking results.
| WHAT CAN MOHS RECONSTRUCTION DO FOR ME?* |
| Reconstruct skin deficits created by Mohs surgery |
| Repair facial Mohs wounds so they heal as inconspicuously as possible |
| Use skin grafts and flaps for the most natural looking results |
Who is a good candidate for Mohs reconstruction?
People who have undergone Mohs surgery on the face, neck, or other areas where they want to minimize scarring may be good candidates for Mohs reconstruction. When Mohs surgery results in a skin deficit on the face — whether the deficit is large or small — Mohs reconstruction may be considered to ensure any resulting scars are minimized. Dr. Levine will gladly meet with you to discuss whether you are a good candidate for Mohs reconstruction surgery.
| MOHS RECONSTRUCTION AT A GLANCE | ||
| Procedure* | Recovery* | Post-Op Care* |
| Usually performed in our accredited in-office surgical facility; a small number of cases may be performed in the hospital | Go home same day |
Sutures either absorbable or removed in 5-7 days |
| Procedure time varies, depending on the location and severity of the deficit; most procedures take between 30 minutes and 2 hours. | Back to work immediate to 4 days | |
| Usually, local anesthesia; twilight may be used for more involved procedures | Light exercise in 5 days | |
| More strenuous exercise in 1-2 weeks | ||
Can Mohs reconstruction be combined with other procedures?
Reconstructive procedures such as this one are usually performed in isolation.
How is Mohs reconstruction performed?
Dr. Levine uses a variety of specialized reconstructive techniques, including sophisticated skin flap and skin graft procedures, to address wounds or defects created by Mohs surgery. The specific surgical techniques used will depend on the location, size, and depth of the skin deficit. Some common methods include rhomboid flaps, Z-plasty, W-plasty, and biloped flaps. Dr. Levine will discuss with you which techniques for Mohs reconstruction will best suit your specific needs.
How can I prepare for Mohs reconstruction?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Levine will examine the location of your Mohs procedure to evaluate the depth and extent of the skin deficit. He will thoroughly discuss your goals and expectations, including possible risks and the best way to prepare for your surgery. He will let you know what to expect before, during, and after your procedure, and he will answer any questions that you may have.
What type of anesthesia will be used?
For most cases, we recommend local anesthesia for Mohs reconstruction. In certain cases, where there is a large deficit or sensitive location, twilight anesthesia may be recommended. You will discuss your procedure thoroughly with both Dr. Levine and our board-certified anesthesiologist to determine the best type of anesthesia for your needs.
What should I expect during Mohs reconstruction?
In most cases, Mohs reconstruction is performed on an outpatient basis in our state-of-the-art, in-office operating suite, which is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). For more involved procedures, Mohs reconstruction may be performed in the hospital. The length of your procedure will depend on many factors, but on average, the procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours.* After your procedure, you will be taken to our warm and caring recovery suite, where our licensed, registered nurse will make sure you are comfortable and assist in your recovery. You will be able to go home the same day with a friend or family member.
What can I expect after Mohs reconstruction surgery?
Every surgery is different, and you will receive detailed post-operative instructions for your specific needs. At Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC, our concern for you doesn’t end when you go home. We’re dedicated to providing ongoing care to ensure a fast, safe, and smooth recovery. Dr. Levine will see you for post-operative visits, and he and our staff stand ready to answer any questions you may have about your recovery, as well as your overall health and well-being.
