Reconstruction Following Skin Cancer
Cutaneous Reconstruction in West Michigan
The name “plastic surgery” is derived from the Greek word “Plastikos” which is translated to mean “to mold or to shape”. In essence, plastic surgery is surgical sculpting.
How Does Cutaneous Reconstruction Work?
Reconstruction is a fundamental aspect of plastic surgery and involves the restoration of form and function to body parts ravaged by disease, injury or birth defects. Creativity and experience are essential in achieving an optimal outcome in this endeavor. Dr. Dodde has the advantage of both. Living near the Lakeshore, excessive sun exposure and skin cancer are common problems. Dr. Dodde works closely with local dermatologists and Mohs surgeons in the treatment of skin cancer to provide quality care and favorable reconstructive and cosmetic outcomes.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a technique used to treat skin cancers and other skin diseases. It is performed by specially trained dermatologists which involves removing the lesion incrementally, in stages, and examining the tissue under a microscope to ensure its complete removal. Mohs surgery has the advantage of confidently removing the diseased tissue while limiting the removal of any additional normal tissue, significantly limiting the size of the resulting defect. Reconstruction of the site will then depend upon the size of the cancer removed and its location. Dr. Dodde’s office will coordinate the Mohs excision and reconstruction with the patient and providers to ensure a seamless experience.
Meeting With Dr. Dodde
After consultation with your Mohs surgeon/dermatologist you will then be seen by Dr. Dodde to further discuss treatment and reconstructive options including alternatives, advantages, disadvantages, risks, and benefits before any surgical procedures are performed. Questions about your cancer treatment and reconstruction will be answered at that time. Removal of the lesion will then be performed by the Mohs surgeon in their office under local anesthesia. Plastic surgical closure will be performed shortly afterward and will be dictated by the size of the resulting defect. This is typically performed in an operating room, although smaller defects can sometimes be performed in the office under local anesthetic. Patient comfort and convenience will determine where and when the reconstruction will be performed. Sometimes, reconstruction cannot be completed as a single procedure and may require more than one “staged” procedure to accomplish the desired reconstructive and cosmetic result.
Results and Recovery
Recovery following your reconstruction will depend upon the reconstruction performed but the patient can typically expect to return to a “normal” life in as little as 2-3 weeks. Each patient’s experience will be individual and Dr. Dodde will discuss what to expect prior to proceeding with your reconstruction.
Skin cancer is a common disease, often requiring reconstruction. Through his expertise, Dr. Dodde can consistently achieve very favorable cosmetic and reconstructive results, restoring the patient’s appearance and allowing them to resume a normal life.