After Mohs surgery removes skin cancer, the remaining wound may need reconstruction to help the area heal while preserving its appearance and function. Two common options are a skin graft and a local flap. Both can be effective, but they use different techniques to repair the surgical site.
At Lowe Plastic Surgery in Oklahoma City, OK, triple board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. James Lowe brings over 20 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. His extensive surgical background allows him to carefully plan Mohs reconstruction based on the wound’s location and characteristics.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery removes skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Thin layers of tissue are removed and examined for cancer cells until the edges are clear, leaving a wound that may require reconstruction depending on its size and location.
How Do a Skin Graft and Local Flap Differ?
The biggest difference is where the tissue used for reconstruction comes from. Here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | Skin Graft | Local Flap |
| Tissue source | Skin taken from another area of your body | Skin and tissue next to the Mohs wound |
| Blood supply | Develops a blood supply at the new site | Maintains its existing blood supply |
| Donor site | Requires a separate donor area | Uses nearby tissue |
| Skin match | May differ somewhat in color or texture | Often closely matches surrounding skin |
| Repair | Covers the open surgical wound | Repositions nearby tissue to close the wound |
Both techniques aim to restore the surgical area while supporting proper healing.
How Does Your Surgeon Choose the Right Reconstruction?
No single reconstruction method works best for every Mohs wound. Your surgeon may consider several factors, including:
- Wound size and depth: Larger or deeper defects may require different reconstruction techniques.
- Location: Areas such as the nose, eyelids, lips, ears, and cheeks may require careful planning.
- Nearby tissue: The amount and flexibility of surrounding skin can influence your options.
- Skin characteristics: Color, thickness, and texture can affect how well reconstructed tissue blends with the surrounding area.
- Function: Reconstruction should protect the movement and function of nearby facial structures.
Discuss Mohs Reconstruction With Dr. Lowe
If you are planning Mohs surgery or need reconstruction afterward, Lowe Plastic Surgery serves Oklahoma City, North Oklahoma City, Edmond, Canadian County, and surrounding communities.
Call 405-942-4300 to schedule a consultation with Dr. James Lowe and discuss your Mohs reconstruction options.