Skin Cancer Reconstruction In Boise, ID
Price: Insurance-based service
Average Procedure Time: Variable
Recovery Time: Variable
Introduction
Mohs (Skin Cancer) Facial Reconstruction
Mohs Surgery is a specialized skin cancer removal technique performed by dermatologists that focuses on preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Candidates for Dr. Gray’s reconstructive expertise are individuals who have undergone Mohs Surgery to treat facial skin cancers such as Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
Dr. Gray collaborates with local dermatological Mohs surgeons in the Treasure Valley for a seamless process. He plans reconstructive surgery soon after Mohs Surgery (hours to days), carefully restoring the natural contours of the face while ensuring the function of vital facial features like the eyelids, mouth, nose, and ears is maintained. In some cases, multiple stages of reconstruction may be necessary to achieve optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes.
Gallery
Before & After Photos →Why choose Dr. Gray for your skin cancer reconstruction?
At Gray Facial Plastic Surgery, we take a specialized approach that sets us apart. While many plastic surgery practices offer procedures for the entire body, we focus exclusively on one area: the face. We believe that this singular, undistracted focus allows for true mastery of the field. Since the face is all we do, we can confidently say that we do it best.
background in reconstructive surgery, honed during a reconstructive-focused surgical residency in Head and Neck Surgery and fellowship training in facial plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery.
If you are anticipating Mohs reconstruction in Boise for a skin cancer defect, 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 Mohs reconstruction.
Techniques Used for Mohs Reconstruction
The choice of techniques depends on the size and location of the defect and the visibility of scars. Surgeons may use skin grafts, utilizing tissue from another part of the body to replace the lost structure. Alternatively, they may recommend a skin flap technique, which involves using nearby tissue to cover the defect. In cases where Mohs reconstruction in Boise involves deeper structures, a cartilage graft may be necessary for full structural restoration.
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.
SKIN CANCER RECONSTRUCTION FAQs
Individuals who undergo Mohs micrographic surgery to treat facial skin cancer may be candidates for skin cancer 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 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 objective of skin cancer reconstruction is ensuring that the margins of the skin defect are confirmed to be cancer-free. Reconstruction cannot proceed until this confirmation is obtained, typically by a Mohs surgeon and skin pathologist, who are often the same specialist.
Once clearance is given, the focus shifts to restoring the affected area in a way that maintains the function of nearby structures—such as the eyes, nose, and mouth—while achieving a natural appearance. Dr. Gray adheres to the core principles of facial reconstructive surgery, strategically placing incisions along natural subunit boundaries, matching tissue types to preserve form, and using precise closure techniques. His meticulous approach to wound care and healing is aimed at achieving the best possible scar outcome.
Mohs 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.
Most skin cancer reconstruction can be performed under local anesthesia or under oral or IV sedation.
Some individuals (specifically large facial defects, complex scalp or nose defects) may require general anesthesia.
Diagnosis and Referral: A dermatologist evaluates and biopsies a suspicious area. If diagnosed as skin cancer, the patient is referred to a Mohs surgeon, who removes the cancer layer-by-layer until it’s entirely gone.
Consultation: Prior to the removal of the skin cancer, the patient meets with Dr. Gray for a consultation, where he reviews their medical history and examine the area. We discuss various repair options, preparing for potential surprises in the defect’s size or depth after Mohs surgery, with multiple plans in place.
Scheduling Surgery: Our office coordinates with the dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon to schedule the repair, ideally on the same day as Mohs surgery. If needed, the repair can be performed the following day and a sterile wound dressing will keep the area clean.
Post-Operative Care: Dr. Gray oversees post-operative care, including suture removal and incision management. Some patients may require multiple procedures, which we aim to schedule as conveniently as possible.
Following your Mohs 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.
Mohs 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.
Unfortunately, insurance out of pocket expenses (high deductible plans) can be very costly for patients. In some cases, we can provide also provide a quote for a procedure which can often be more affordable for patients that billing through insurance.