Mohs micrographic surgery, or simply Mohs surgery, is a procedure used to remove skin cancer cells. It is a very precise surgical technique that causes only minimal tissue damage. Reconstruction of the skin is typically needed after this procedure, as the removal of tissue can create a gap in the skin.
Eyelid Skin Reconstruction at Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Once Dr. Sami has worked with Mohs surgeons to determine that the cancer has been completely removed, the process of skin reconstruction can begin. You can choose to have the reconstruction surgery immediately after the cancer removal or at a later date. Dr. Sami can help you decide on the timing of the reconstruction as best suited for your requirements.
If you require eyelid skin reconstruction at Houston Oculofacial after Mohs surgery, Dr. Sami will discuss the options with you. The technique for reconstruction will depend on several factors, such as the extent of the damage.
Small wounds left after Mohs surgery are usually left alone, as they heal on their own after some time has passed. Dr. Sami may use stitches to close larger wounds. The stitches can be straightforward or may require advanced techniques to close the wounds effectively.
If the wounds are very extensive, the reconstruction process may be done using skin grafts. Skin grafting is the process of using a part of the skin from elsewhere on the body to close the wounds. The amount of skin used will depend on the nature of the wound. The body part from where the skin will be harvested is determined after careful consideration. Dr. Sami will discuss all the options with you and help you make an informed decision.
In some instances, more than one reconstruction surgery may be necessary. If the tissue damage from the surgery is quite severe, reconstruction may be necessary even if Mohs surgery ensures minimal damage to the skin.
After the reconstruction surgery, you will need to follow Dr. Sami’s recommendations for wound care and healing. You may be required to come in for follow-up visits at Houston Oculofacial.
Post-Surgical Marks
Mohs surgery can be a life-saving procedure. It can also leave post-surgical marks. With medical advancements, you don’t need to worry about living with scars anymore.
Reconstruction surgeries using different techniques are available for patients to restore their skin as best as possible. After skin reconstruction, the damaged tissues will be repaired after recovery. Any marks also fade away with time.
Speaking with Dr. Sami at Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Eyelid reconstruction is a particularly delicate and precise procedure. It is used to not only restore the look of the eyelid but also its functionality.
If you have you noticed a suspicious eyelid lesion that you suspect may be skin cancer, it’s best to speak with Dr. Mirwat Sami, an experienced board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Dr. Sami can help you get the Mohs surgery you may need, along with the eyelid reconstruction that can come with it. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Sami, contact Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery today.
