Reconstruction after MOHS Surgery South Florida
Skin cancers such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common forms of cancer in the United States. Unlike the rest of the body, the face is a focal point of attention that is not easily hidden from view. For this reason, many patients choose to have their surgical defects, created from skin cancer removal, repaired by a facial plastic surgeon.
There are many factors that need to be considered when repairing a defect created by the removal of a skin cancer. They include the location, size, depth, and extent of the defect. In addition to his expertise in cosmetic surgery, Dr. Steiger has extensive experience repairing facial defects created by MOHS surgery. He works closely with highly qualified MOHS surgeons in order to coordinate the best possible care for his patients.
Goal
To repair a defect created from injury to the face. The most common cause of this is from the removal of facial cancers, especially after MOHS micrographic surgery.
The Procedure
There are several different types of flaps or grafts that may be used for repair. The type of repair necessary is determined once defect is examined.
Anesthesia
Most reconstructions are performed under local anesthesia in the office. Larger repairs may be performed under twilight sedation in an ambulatory surgical center. Rarely is general anesthesia required.
Length Of Time
Depending on the size of the defect, repair can average approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours.
After Procedure
The vast majority of patients go home immediately after the procedure. When performed in the outpatient surgery center under twilight anesthesia, you will be observed for approximately one hour after the procedure prior to being discharged with a companion.
Recovery
Most patients can go back to work the day after the procedure. Some people opt to take more time off depending on the type of repair performed. You will be given specific wound care instruction prior to leaving the office in order to allow for the best possible healing and outcome.
Dr. Jacob D Steiger MD is board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology- Head & Neck Surgery. He practices in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, Florida treating patients from Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, as well as patients from all over the US and from around the world.
