Restore Your Appearance Along with Your Good Health

Mohs repair and reconstructive surgery is the process of repairing the defect left behind from the removal of the skin cancer. 

Yes. There are several different types of procedures using skin, cartilage, and bone grafting, tissue expansion, and flap techniques. The goal, however, is always the same: restoring the anatomic structure and function to the area. The type of repair needed is determined by the location, size, depth, and extent of the defect left behind after the skin cancer has been removed 

Mohs repair and reconstruction may be right for you if: 

• Your skin cancer has been completely removed 
• Function has been lost due to skin cancer removal 
• Anatomic structure has been altered due to skin cancer removal 

Yes. Mohs repair and reconstruction is done after Mohs surgery has successfully  removed the skin cancer. 

During your consultation, Dr. Rosing will start by asking about your goals for the procedure. Dr. Rosing will examine the area impacted by your Mohs surgery. He will share before and after photographs of his work and set realistic expectations. He will also complete a full medical history, evaluate your current health, and make note of any prescriptions or supplements you take and whether you smoke. He will then review all of the possible risks of the surgery and a complete breakdown of the cost. 

Most Mohs repairs and reconstructions are performed under local anesthesia. Larger repairs may be performed under twilight sedation. General anesthesia is rarely required. 

Mohs repair and reconstruction is an outpatient procedure. 

Mohs repair and reconstruction procedures range from simple to complex. The technique used is specific to the type of repair needed. Dr. Rosing will review the steps of your procedure with you in detail. 

Depending on the size of the defect, Mohs repair and reconstruction can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours and may be performed in multiple phases. 

Any discomfort following Mohs repair and reconstruction will likely be managed well with acetaminophen. Dr. Rosing will give you specific wound care instructions and may prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infection. 

Most patients resume normal activities the day after the procedure, but it varies depending on the extent of the repair. 

It is important to avoid any form of nicotine for at least 3-4 weeks before and after surgery. Nicotine, in any form, can increase the risk for skin and tissue death and will delay your eye’s healing process and worsen scarring. You must also avoid vigorous activity or exercise for 1-3 weeks, depending on the location of the surgery. Avoid applying makeup on the wound until it is completely healed. 

Problems that may be caused by Mohs repair and reconstruction include: 

• Infection 
• Bleeding 
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia 

Complications are rare and are often easily solved by Dr. Rosing if you notify us. Call us if you experience any of the following: a temperature of 101 or higher, increased local redness or warmth, chest pain, shortness of breath, legs swelling, calf pain, or if you have any other concerns. 

Yes. Insurance will cover Mohs repair and reconstruction.