Skin Reconstruction
Mohs Surgery is a technique for skin cancer removal performed by specially trained dermatologists that preserves as much healthy tissue as possible. Dr. Harmon, as a fellowship-trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, is skilled in addressing both the form and function of the face when reconstructing defects associated with Mohs Surgery. He works closely with his dermatological surgery colleagues to provide premier care for patients in a safe and comfortable environment. Candidates are individuals who have undergone Mohs Surgery to remove skin cancer of the face, including Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Dr. Harmon operates shortly after Mohs Surgery, taking care to restore the natural contours of the face as completely as possible. Great care is also taken to maintain the function of important subunits of the face, including the eyelids, mouth, nose, and ears. Some approaches require multiple stages to maximize both the appearance and function of the face. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation depending on the extent of the surgery. Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery strives to ensure a smooth transition from our dermatological surgical colleagues to Dr. Harmon’s reconstructive procedure. Options for reconstructing the defect are discussed prior to Mohs Surgery and afterwards once the extent of the cancer removal has been determined.
Am I a good candidate?
Individuals undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery to remove skin cancer on the face are candidates for skin cancer reconstruction.
Candidates range from 20s to 80s. A consultation is usually recommended to determine candidacy for the procedure, because there may be factors that preclude this procedure for certain individuals. A consultation is also usually recommended to establish a tentative surgical plan as all cancer reconstruction surgeries are different. Reasonable expectations must be established about what cancer reconstruction surgery can and cannot accomplish as with all plastic surgery procedures. As with all facial plastic surgery procedures, results can vary.
Expected recovery
Recovery from skin cancer reconstruction is specific to the individual. The duration of recovery will vary from person to person. The expected recovery depends on a host of factors, including the individual’s past medical and surgical history, current health status, and the extent and location of the reconstruction. For example, the recovery time may be extended from days to weeks if the repair requires multiple stages. Also, the incisions continue to heal for months after surgery.
What to expect in a consultation
Expect a detailed, informative conversation with Dr. Harmon about your concerns and aesthetic goals regarding your face. He will assess your anatomy and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your concerns and aesthetic goals within the limits of what the surgical defect presents.
Frequently asked questions
- What type of anesthesia is required?
- Most skin cancer reconstruction can be performed under local anesthesia or under IV sedation. Some individuals may require general anesthesia.
- How quickly after cancer removal is the area repaired?
- Our goal with any repair after excision of a skin cancer is that it been completed on the same day the excision was performed. However, there may be instances where this is not possible, in which case the repair would be completed the following day.
- Is skin reconstruction a painful procedure?
- Facial plastic surgery procedures are generally well-tolerated by patients and typically involve little pain, especially when compared with surgery on other areas of the body. Patients are usually prescribed just a small amount of pain medication for after surgery. In fact, we have found most use only over-the-counter pain medication including acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen after surgery instead. And those who do use the prescribed pain medication usually only use it the first night after surgery. With that in mind, it is important to note that every patient perceives and processes pain differently. Some patients have a high pain tolerance. Others may be more predisposed to be more sensitive to pain. We at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery are focused on balancing minimizing post-operative discomfort and maximizing safety.
Why Choose Dr. Harmon
- The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good.
- Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected.
- Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology.
- Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati.
- Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati.
- Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City.
- Dr. Harmon posts frequently and covers a wide range of topics, including procedure-specific information, volunteering, general health, and much more. Read more from Dr. Harmon by visiting his blog.
- Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery can be reached here.
Additional Reading
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice. Moreover, this page should not be used as a substitute for direct medical advice. It is essential that you have a consultation with a qualified medical provider prior to considering any treatment in order to determine whether you are a candidate for treatment. This will also allow you the opportunity to discuss any potential benefits, risks, and alternatives to the treatment.