Mohs Skin Cancer Repair
The goal in reconstruction after a Mohs skin cancer surgery is to have the area appear as normal as possible and this is something we perform at our office. Read below to learn more about if this is something you can benefit from after your Mohs surgery with your dermatologist.
What is a Mohs surgery and why would a patient need a repair surgery from us?
Mohs surgery is a surgery to remove skin cancer. It is considered the gold standard for skin cancer treatment near the eyelids as it is highly effective at removing skin cancer* and has the least morbidity in relation to your vision and ocular health. The Mohs procedure is performed by skin cancer specialists, and when the defect involves sensitive areas near your eyelids and/or tear ducts, reconstruction is performed by oculofacial surgeons, such as Dr. Pelton and Dr. Yu. These surgeries are coordinated for you by our team and your dermatologist, and your reconstruction is typically scheduled either the same day or the next day after your Mohs procedure.
What goes into your evaluation?
After you have been diagnosed with a skin cancer near your eyelids, you will meet with Dr. Yu or Dr. Pelton. During your evaluation, your surgeon will review your medical history, your facial anatomy, and your specific surgical needs in order to formulate the best possible approaches for your skin cancer surgery reconstruction. This visit is also an opportunity for you to meet your surgeon, and have your questions and concerns addressed prior to your procedure. The goal of reconstruction surgery is to (1) maintain normal eyelid function and (2) have the eyelid appear as normal as possible.
Will insurance cover
this procedure?
Yes, Mohs reconstruction is usually covered by insurance. Our team will submit your case for prior authorization prior to your procedure and you will receive a call from our office to confirm whether or not your insurance has approved this procedure for you.
please call our office if you want to know if we are in network with your medical insurance.
What is the healing like? Will it look normal like it did before?
Healing will depend on your surgery and your overall health, but typically the majority of patients experience bruising and swelling in the first couple of weeks after surgery.
If there are stitches to remove, these will usually be removed 1-2 weeks after surgery. In some cases, a stent may be left in place for several months after surgery to allow your tear drain to fully heal. Finally, a small number of patients may require staged surgery, meaning there may be a second surgery scheduled about a month to several months afterwards to complete the reconstruction. Your specific post surgical care instructions will be tailored to you, and will be carefully explained to you.
The goal in eyelid reconstruction is to have the eyelid appear as normal as possible. Every incision leaves behind a scar, but these can be camouflaged within your natural wrinkle lines and, with good surgical technique and postsurgical care, the goal is for it to be difficult for others to notice any differences in facial appearance. Dr. Pelton and Dr. Yu bring years of experience specifically in periocular reconstruction and are dedicated to providing the best possible result for their patients.
All patients leave with Dr. Pelton's and Dr. Yu's personal contacts after their procedure so they can reach out with any questions or concerns.
*A small number of patients may not be candidate for Mohs surgery if there is a rare or more invasive type of skin cancer. This will be part of your evaluation to determine if your skin cancer is treatable with Mohs surgery.
Before & Afters
