Cancer can develop in any part of the body. However, more than 80 percent of cancers occur on the head, face and neck, which can result in scarring and facial asymmetry after treatment. The most successful and most often prescribed form of treatment for melanoma is a complete surgical excision, where the entire mass is removed along with some healthy skin. In cases where a malignant mass has been removed from the nose, reconstruction is available to restore symmetry to the face.
Who Is the Right Candidate for Reconstructive Skin Cancer Surgery?
The different methods used in treating skin cancer may increase your chances of recovery, but leave unappealing cosmetic results. The consequences for treatment may leave you with small scars or more prominent changes in your facial structures, depending on the position or severity of the cancer. The most suitable person to receive this form of treatment is one who has the right expectations of the results and is medically able to undergo surgery.
The Reconstructive Skin Cancer Surgery Procedure
Melanoma in-situ, or thin, local melanomas, may be treated with microsurgery techniques such as Moh’s Microscopic Surgery (MMS). MMS involves removing the visible tumor by scraping it off using surgical instruments. A thin layer of skin at the site of the tumor is then examined under the microscope. If tumor cells are detected on the skin sample, another layer is removed until no tumor is identified under the microscope.
Preparing for Reconstructive Skin Cancer Surgery
You will receive preoperative instructions with explanations of everything you should do and know prior to surgery. This will include guidelines for eating, drinking, and smoking, and whether to take or avoid certain medications, especially Coumadin and aspirin. Whether your treatment will be done on an inpatient or outpatient basis, it is a good idea to plan for a friend or anyone who cares about you to drive you home after your surgery and stay with you for at least 24 hours to ensure that complications do not occur.
The Type of Anesthesia Used
Reconstructive skin cancer surgery often uses general anesthesia, where you will be asleep throughout the procedure. However, your surgeon may also decide to use local anesthesia with intravenous sedation depending on the situation and preference.
Benefits of Reconstructive Skin Cancer Surgery
Reconstructive skin cancer surgery offers several advantages, such as:
- Relieving the discomfort caused by tension on the skin
- Normalization of skin functions
- Improved appearance
- Regaining of your self-confidence
Reconstructive skin cancer surgery is a safe procedure that is beneficial in removing melanoma skin cancers on your nose and other parts of your body. If you have been affected by this type of skin cancer, contact Thomas Funcik Facial Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation. Doctor Funcik and our medical team will work with you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.