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Facial Reconstruction Following Cancer RemovalWhat is Facial Reconstruction Surgery?The University of Michigan remains a leader in the treatment of basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma as well as melanoma, with the use of highly effective Mohs Surgery and the "Square Technique" for their removal. Performed by specially trained dermatologists, this process has a 95 to 99 percent cure rate with these skin cancer types, while conserving as much normal tissue as possible. Tissue reconstruction following the removal of smaller lesions can often be performed on the same day by the Mohs surgeons. For more extensive skin cancers, care is coordinated through a multidisciplinary team of Mohs surgeons, plastic surgeons, head and neck surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons and radiation oncologists. Mohs SurgeryClick here to visit the University of Michigan Dermatology Website for more information on Moh's surgery. Who is a good candidate?Patients who have larger skin cancers, recurrent skin cancers, or cancers on their face, including sensitive areas such as the nose, lips, ears, and eyelids, may be candidates for coordinated care between the Mohs dermatologists and a plastic surgeon. Typically, the tumor will be removed by the Mohs surgeons one day, and reconstruction of the defect will be performed the following day by the plastic surgeon. How is the procedure performed?Reconstructive options range from local tissue rearrangement ("flaps"), to skin grafts, to complex transfer of skin, bone and/or cartilage to achieve optimal facial balance and symmetry. With your guidance, your surgeon will choose the optimal reconstructive option for your particular needs. The surgeon will attempt to balance the complexity of the reconstruction with your desire for final outcome, to achieve the best possible functional and aesthetic results. List of Physicians Who Perform Facial Reconstruction SurgeryFor details about education, experience, and specialty in this clinical area, please visit these physician profile pages: Planning for Your SurgeryThe first step is to schedule personal consultations with your Mohs dermatologist and your plastic surgeon. Communication is crucial in reaching your goals. You will have the opportunity to express your goals and the results you'd like to achieve. Together, you and your surgeon will reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and the long-term benefits you will experience. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During the initial consultation, you should expect:
Preparing for Your SurgeryYou will be given a pre-operative information packet that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis, you should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, and to help you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital, if needed. Where Your Surgery Will be PerformedYour procedure will take place at one of the University of Michigan Operating rooms, which provides state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. The majority of these procedures are completed on an out-patient basis. Types of AnesthesiaYou'll remain comfortable throughout the entire procedure. In many cases, intravenous sedation ("twilight anesthesia") is the preferred option. In some cases however, general anesthetic is used. After Your SurgeryIt is very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions in order to promote healing and progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all follow-up appointments scheduled so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns you may have. |
