Facial reconstructive surgery is a good option for patients who have had a skin cancer removed.
As a nationally recognized leader in reconstructive surgery, our team of U-M plastic surgeons and medical specialists guide our patients through every step of the facial reconstruction surgery process to ensure the best results possible.
Is Facial Reconstructive Surgery Right for You?
The University of Michigan remains a leader in the treatment of basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, as well as melanoma, using highly effective Mohs surgery and the "Square Technique.” 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.
Performed at U-M since 1955, Mohs micrographic surgery is a state-of-the-art treatment in which the physician serves as surgeon, pathologist and reconstructive surgeon. Often, the Mohs surgeons can perform tissue reconstruction on the same day they remove smaller lesions. For more extensive skin cancers, we coordinate care through a multidisciplinary team of Mohs surgeons, plastic surgeons, head and neck surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons and radiation oncologists.
Best Candidates
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 Mohs surgeons will remove the tumor one day, and the plastic surgeon will perform reconstructive surgery the following day.
About the Procedure
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. To achieve the best possible functional and aesthetic results, your surgeon will attempt to balance the complexity of the reconstruction with your desire for final outcome.
Your Consultation
Call us for a private consultation with a surgeon who specializes in facial reconstruction surgery following cancer. Together, you can discuss your expectations and the possibilities. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and the long-term benefits. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you.
We conduct your consultation and all pre-operative and post-operative visits at Domino’s Farms where our patients enjoy personalized care in a private office atmosphere.