You may need a facial plastic surgeon after Mohs surgery if skin cancer removal leaves a wound in a visible or function-sensitive area of the face. Mohs surgery removes thin layers of skin and checks each layer until no signs of cancer remain, but the repair afterward can require separate planning, especially on the nose, eyelids, lips, ears, cheeks, head, or neck.
If you need Mohs reconstruction NYC, Dr. Joseph J. Rousso, MD, FACS, provides facial reconstructive care in Manhattan after skin cancer removal.
What Does Mohs Reconstruction Repair?
Facial reconstruction after Mohs surgery repairs the wound or defect left after the cancer has been removed. Depending on the wound’s size, depth, and location, repair may involve careful closure, a skin flap, a graft, or another reconstructive approach.
The face needs special planning because small changes can affect more than appearance. A wound near the eyelid may affect blinking. A repair near the nose may affect nostril shape or airflow. The National Cancer Institute notes that Mohs surgery removes as little normal tissue as possible and is often used for skin cancers on the face, lip, ear, scalp, and neck.
When May a Facial Plastic Surgeon Be Helpful?
Some Mohs wounds can be closed by your Mohs surgeon. A reconstructive surgeon can help when the repair involves facial shape, movement, or careful scar placement.
A facial plastic surgeon may be recommended when:
- The wound is on the nose, eyelid, lip, ear, cheek, head, or neck.
- The repair could affect breathing, blinking, smiling, or lip movement.
- The wound is large, deep, or close to an important facial border.
- You want scar placement planned around natural facial lines.
- Your dermatologist or Mohs surgeon recommends reconstructive repair.
Dr. Rousso offers Mohs reconstruction NYC for patients who need facial repair after skin cancer removal, including reconstruction in delicate areas where function and appearance both need careful planning.
What Should You Know Before Planning Repair?
Timing depends on your case. Some Mohs repairs happen the same day, while others require coordination between your dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, and reconstructive surgeon once the final wound size is known.
Your repair plan depends on the cancer location, wound depth, skin quality, health history, and whether the area affects movement or facial function. No surgeon should promise an invisible scar. The goal of skin cancer reconstruction is to repair the area carefully, support function when needed, and place the scar as thoughtfully as possible.
Dr. Joseph J. Rousso, MD, FACS, is a Manhattan facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with training in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery and facial plastic surgery.
Mohs Reconstruction FAQ
Does every Mohs surgery need a facial plastic surgeon?
No. Some Mohs wounds can be closed by the Mohs surgeon or allowed to heal in a controlled way. A facial plastic surgeon may be considered when the wound is large, visible, deep, or close to facial structures that affect movement or function.
Can Mohs reconstruction happen the same day?
Sometimes. Timing depends on the cancer removal, the final wound, and how your surgeons coordinate care. In many cases, we can perform complex reconstructions in the office under local anesthesia, but your repair plan depends on the wound, location, and timing.
Will Mohs reconstruction leave a scar?
Yes, any skin surgery can leave a scar. Careful reconstruction can help support function, protect facial shape, and place scars as naturally as possible based on your anatomy.
Schedule a Mohs Reconstruction Consultation in NYC
If you’ve been told you may need facial reconstruction after Mohs surgery, Dr. Joseph J. Rousso, MD, FACS, can evaluate the area and discuss repair options at his Manhattan office. To learn more about Mohs reconstruction NYC, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rousso.