Skin Cancer Reconstruction (Mohs)

Most Philadelphia area patients experience minimal discomfort during reconstruction due to the use of local anesthesia. After surgery, mild soreness or tightness is common and typically well managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.

Many reconstructions are completed in a single procedure, followed by one or more follow-up visits to monitor healing. More complex cases may require staged procedures. Dr. Jones discusses the expected timeline during the consultation.

Initial healing will occur within the first few weeks, but scars continue to improve for several months.

Final results are typically seen between six months and one year as the skin fully matures.

In most cases, the priority is proper healing, preservation of function, and achieving the best possible aesthetic outcome for the reconstructed area. For that reason, reconstruction is typically performed as a standalone procedure at the time of or shortly after Mohs surgery.

That said, there are situations where additional procedures may be considered once healing is complete. Minor refinements, scar revision, or skin resurfacing treatments may be recommended at a later stage to improve texture, contour, or scar appearance.

Dr. Jones carefully evaluates timing, safety, and patient goals before recommending any combined or follow-up procedures.

Risks with skin cancer reconstruction surgery are infection, bleeding, delayed wound healing, or scarring beyond what is expected, as well as temporary swelling, bruising, or changes in sensation near the surgical site.

In rare cases, asymmetry or contour irregularities can occur, particularly with larger or more complex reconstructions.

Dr. Jones minimizes these risks through careful surgical planning, precise technique, and close post-operative monitoring.