Nasal Reconstruction In Boise, ID
Price: Insurance-based service
Average Procedure Time: Variable
Recovery Time: Variable
Introduction
Nasal Mohs Reconstruction
Nasal reconstruction is a specialized procedure to restore both the appearance and function of the nose, often after cancer removal, trauma, or to correct congenital issues. The nose’s complex structure includes three key layers—inner lining, structural support, and skin—all of which may require reconstruction depending on the defect. Adjacent areas like the cheeks, eyelids, or upper lip may also need repair for facial balance.
Dr. Gray brings advanced training and extensive experience in complex nasal reconstruction, addressing both cosmetic and functional concerns with a personalized, meticulous approach.
Nasal Reconstruction Expert
Techniques Used for Nasal Reconstruction
Dr. Gray uses various surgical techniques for nasal reconstruction, customized to the nasal defect’s specific characteristics like location, size, shape, and depth. Each method has its benefits and constraints, and sometimes a combination is required for optimal results. Minor defects may be addressed with a single procedure in the office or operating room, using local anesthesia or mild sedation. More significant defects, especially those affecting multiple layers or larger nose areas, might need a staged surgical plan over weeks under general anesthesia. For these intricate cases, extra cartilage from the nasal septum, ears, or ribs may be used to support the reconstruction.
Skin grafts and local flaps for nasal skin
Regional flaps (such as cheek or forehead flaps)
Supportive Cartilage grafts (septum, ear, rib) for framework
Internal nasal lining flaps
Skin flaps are a specialized technique that relocates healthy skin along with its blood supply to cover surgical defects, offering both aesthetic and functional restoration. These flaps are meticulously designed to match the shape and size of the defect, ensuring a seamless blend with surrounding tissue for optimal results. Often employed when there isn’t enough adjacent tissue for a direct closure, skin flaps become an essential tool in Mohs reconstruction, providing a tailored solution that enhances both the appearance and integrity of the repaired area.
Skin grafts are an effective method for replacing lost or damaged tissue, restoring both function and appearance. In this procedure, healthy skin from another part of the body is carefully transplanted to cover the surgical defect. Grafts can be full-thickness, involving both the epidermis and dermis, or split-thickness, which utilizes only part of the dermal layer. These grafts not only accelerate wound healing but also help to seamlessly restore the natural look and functionality of the affected area, making them a vital option for areas with significant tissue loss.
Cartilage grafts play a vital role in advanced nasal and Mohs reconstructive surgery, particularly for cases involving deeper structural defects in areas such as the nose and ears. These intricate procedures involve harvesting cartilage, often from the patient’s own body, and carefully transplanting it to the affected site. This technique not only restores essential structural support but also ensures a seamless blend of function and aesthetics, making it a cornerstone of successful facial reconstruction.
Gallery
Before & After Photos →Why choose Dr. Gray for your nose reconstruction?
Dr. Gray has an extensive background in nasal reconstructive surgery, honed during a reconstructive-focused residency in Head and Neck Surgery and fellowship training in facial plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery.
If you are anticipating nasal Mohs reconstruction in Boise for a nasal skin cancer defect, or have a nasal deformity from a prior trauma, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gray today. With his advanced expertise and experience, he will provide personalized guidance, address your specific needs, and create a custom plan to achieve the best possible results for your reconstruction.
NASAL MOHS RECONSTRUCTION FAQs
Individuals who have former nasal trauma, or who undergo nasal Mohs micrographic surgery to treat nose skin cancer may be candidates for nasal reconstruction. Candidates typically range in age from their 20s to 80s. A consultation is generally recommended to assess candidacy, as certain factors may make some individuals unsuitable for the procedure. Additionally, the consultation helps to outline a preliminary surgical plan, as each cancer or trauma reconstruction surgery is unique. It is important to set realistic expectations about the outcomes of cancer reconstruction surgery, just as with any plastic surgery procedure, as results can vary.
The primary goal of nasal reconstruction is to restore the three layers of the nose individually, ensuring both functional nasal breathing and a natural appearance. Dr. Gray follows the fundamental principles of facial reconstructive surgery by strategically placing incisions along natural subunit boundaries, carefully matching tissue types to maintain form, and using precise closure techniques. His detailed attention to wound care and healing is focused on achieving the most favorable scar outcomes.
Nasal reconstruction is a highly advanced procedure, and healing can be unpredictable. In many cases, multiple staged surgeries are required to achieve the best possible results. Dr. Gray’s expertise in managing these complex cases ensures patients receive personalized care throughout each stage of the reconstruction process.
Nasal reconstructive surgery carries the following risks:
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Bleeding or hematoma (blood pooling).
- Inevitable scarring, though minimized.
- Delayed healing, especially with smoking or diabetes.
- Temporary or permanent nerve damage.
- Rare tissue necrosis, possibly requiring revision surgery.
Small nasal skin defects or cancer reconstruction can be performed under local anesthesia or under oral or IV sedation.
However, larger nasal defects requiring multiple layers or techniques individuals will require general anesthesia.
Following your nasal reconstruction, it is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the days or weeks ahead. Dr. Gray can prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable during the healing process. It is crucial to keep the surgical site clean and follow all wound care instructions carefully for optimal recovery. Be mindful to avoid strenuous activity and shield the treated area from the sun to ensure a smooth, successful healing journey. Any sutures will be removed in follow up typically between 7-10 days after surgery.
Patients who require larger flaps to reconstruct the nose will often require two separate procedures, spaced 3-4 weeks apart. Talk to Dr. Gray about this timeline during consultation and he will go over the expectations for recovery on a case-by-case basis.
Nasal reconstructive surgery is typically billed through insurance which can be variable with regards to out-of-pocket costs for patients, depending on their insurance policy.
Dr. Gray accepts the majority of major insurance providers, and our team can help with any prior authorization requirements.