Dr. Frederic Mohs developed Mohs surgery in the 1930s as an advanced way to treat skin cancer. Today, it’s considered the gold standard for removing common types of skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, according to the American College of Mohs Surgery. In some cases, patients may require plastic surgery following Mohs to restore the skins appearance or function.
“The Mohs procedure is one of the most effective treatments available for removing cancerous cells and restoring health,” says Dr. Heidi Harrington, a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon with Beaufort Memorial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics. “While highly successful, it can leave complex wounds that require reconstruction.”
Read More: When Is Radiation for Skin Cancer an Option?
Mohs Surgery Explained
Also known as Mohs micrographic surgery, this outpatient procedure removes skin cancer layer by layer, ensuring all cancerous cells are gone while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. Most procedures take place in a dermatologist’s office rather than a hospital operating room.
During surgery, the following takes place:
- A local anesthetic is injected into the surgical site so you remain awake and comfortable.
- The Mohs surgeon removes a thin layer of tissue and examines it under a microscope.
- If cancerous cells remain, another thin layer is removed. This process continues until the margins are clear.
Mohs is especially effective for treating basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. In some cases, it can also be used for early-stage melanoma near the skin’s surface.
Plastic Surgery Following Mohs
Because Mohs removes cancer in thin layers, it usually causes less scarring than other skin cancer surgery techniques. However, depending on the size or location of the wound, plastic surgery may be needed for reconstruction. Based on your needs, the plastic surgeon may recommend:
- Skin flap — Healthy skin near the surgical site is repositioned to cover the wound.
- Skin graft — A piece of skin is taken from another area of the body to repair a larger wound. For areas involving cartilage, such as the ear, cartilage grafting may also be used.
- Specialized reconstruction — For delicate areas like the face, nose, or eyelids, advanced techniques may be used to restore natural appearance and function.
“Every person is unique, and so is every reconstructive surgery,” Dr. Harrington says. “Understanding your needs and aesthetic desires helps create a plan that leaves you feeling confident in your own skin.”
Read More: How Eyelid Surgery Restores Youthful Appearance and Vision
Recovering After Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery typically lasts a few hours, but because it’s an outpatient procedure, you’ll go home the same day. If plastic surgery is needed, you’ll meet with your surgeon either the same day as your initial procedure or within a few days.
Steps in your recovery include:
- Cleaning — Keeping the surgical site clean helps prevent infection. Your surgical team will provide information on proper wound care, including guidance on ointments and when to change bandages.
- Follow-up — “It’s always helpful to visit your surgeon after surgery,” Dr. Harrington says. “These follow-up visits allow your team to remove sutures and ensure the wound is healing properly.”
- Medication — Along with treatments that promote healing, you may need medication to manage pain. Over-the-counter options such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually sufficient.
- Rest — The location and extent of your skin cancer may temporarily affect your daily life. Ask your surgical team when it’s safe to resume exercise, work and other activities. You may also need to avoid wearing makeup or using other products on the surgical site for several days.
As you heal from your procedure, watch for any abnormalities. Mohs surgery occasionally results in infection, bleeding, or delayed healing. Contact your care team if you notice these or any other concerning side effects after returning home.
Call 843-940-8520 to schedule a plastic surgery consultation today, or request an appointment online.
