What is Mohs reconstruction?
Mohs reconstruction is surgical procedure that repairs the defect created by Mohs surgery removal of a skin cancer. It is typically performed within the same day or a few days following the Mohs surgery. Dr. Ho works closely with Mohs surgeons and reconstructs defects of the head and neck region following excision to ensure excellent well-healed results. Dr. Ho specializes in Mohs reconstruction and performs each surgery according to the unique anatomy and surgical goals of the individual patient.
What are different repair options in Mohs reconstruction?
Every Mohs defect presents as a unique puzzle for any reconstructive surgeon with multiple possible solutions. No Mohs defect is the same; therefore, the approach to the repair varies by patient and by surgeon. The repair may be closed with a straightforward suturing technique or may require a small skin graft or tissue flap. The incision lines are often designed parallel to or within natural lines of the face to help conceal the resulting scars. If the Mohs defect involves an area of the nose, the repair may involve the use of cartilage grafts to maintain or improve the nasal airway. Sometimes the repair may require multiple revision surgeries to achieve the most natural appearing and aesthetically pleasing results. As a board-certified otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Ho applies her thorough understanding of head and neck anatomy and artistic intuition to every reconstructive case to create natural and well-healed results.
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“As a former surgical patient, I understand that the appearance of the scars often matters greatly to the patient. I always perform meticulous closure to ensure that the scars heal well and are minimal.”
– Dr. Tina Ho
FAQ’s
What is Dr. Ho’s approach to Mohs reconstruction?
As a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Ho specializes exclusively in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures of the head and neck region including Mohs reconstruction. Dr. Ho dedicates extensive time and effort with every patient to review possible reconstructive options and determine which ones are best suited to meet the goals of the patient. Her attention to detail combined with her artistic intuition as a fellowship-trained, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon ensures well-concealed scars and natural, aesthetically pleasing results for every reconstructive patient. Depending on the size and location of the defect, Dr. Ho may perform reconstructive surgery under local or general anesthesia and either in the office or at a surgery center. Every Mohs defect is different and requires a unique reconstructive plan. As a former patient who underwent several reconstructive surgeries herself, Dr. Ho understands that the appearance of the scars often matters greatly to the patient. She always strives to perform her best closure to ensure that the scars heal well and are minimal.
What should patients expect after Mohs reconstruction?
Each reconstructive procedure is different and catered to the individual patient. Therefore, the types of incisions utilized as well as extent of swelling, bruising, and tenderness that occur after surgery will vary by patient. Every reconstructive patient will follow-up with Dr. Ho one week after surgery for suture removal. Each patient will then follow-up again at weeks to months out at regular intervals for re-evaluation. If a tissue flap was used for repair of the Mohs defect, additional revision surgeries may be required to refine the flap. The down time for Mohs reconstruction is usually minimal; most patients can return to normal daily activities apart from heavy lifting, straining, and strenuous activity the day after surgery. Patients should expect immediate bruising and swelling after surgery that typically resolve by one week out from surgery. Post-operative pain is usually mild and managed well with prescribed pain medication. The scars are typically well-healed by two weeks out from surgery but take up to six months or longer to mature and achieve their final appearance. Dr. Ho seeks regular follow-up with her patients to ensure that every patient heals well and is satisfied with their surgical outcome.
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Your Mohs Reconstruction Surgery in Philadelphia will be performed by Dr. Tina Ho in her surgery center in Philadelphia.