MOHS Defects

Overview: MOHS Defects

Despite greater patient education about the damaging effects of the sun, skin cancer is unfortunately still a great issue. As the population ages so does our cumulative time in the sun predisposing to basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer and melanoma. When present on the face, usually in a cosmetically sensitive area, our dermatology colleagues perform a highly effective excision of the tumor using the MOHS technique. Although MOHS is the best technique to conserve tissue and excise only the tumor with a safe margin, it often times results in a loss of tissue that needs to be replaced. This is when our expertise is required.

Procedure

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Using neighboring tissue from the nose, cheeks and forehead the defect can then be patched. We take great care and great pride in meticulous wound closure. We do everything to preserve the normal anatomic function and the aesthetics of the area that was previously excised. Once the healing process is complete, most observers would have to closely scrutinize the area to realize that you have had any type of reconstructive surgery.

We provide the utmost guidance and support in the post-operative period to maximize wound healing and the overall outcome. It is not uncommon to perform an initial operation to restore the bulk of the wound and ensure proper coverage of the defect followed one or two smaller operations for the final touchup.

MFAS surgeons draw upon considerable experience and training in head and neck surgery, oncologic reconstruction and aesthetic ideals to provide the best result.