Reconstruction
Because going through surgery to remove skin cancer is stressful enough, the last thing you should have to worry about is scarring. When you become a patient of Naaman Clinic, you can meet with reconstruction expert Evans Bailey, MD, Ph.D. As a leader in dermatology and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Bailey has extensive training in minimizing the appearance of scars and helping you look and feel your best. Schedule your reconstruction consultation at either the Birmingham or Montgomery, Alabama office by calling or using the online booking feature.
Reconstruction Q & A
How can reconstruction help me?
Having skin cancer removed is overwhelming on its own, so you certainly don’t want to live with the lingering scar. Reconstruction surgery is ideal if you had a larger mass that required your physician to remove a significant portion of your skin.
You may benefit from reconstruction if you have visible surgical scars on your face, nose, neck, or ears. This specialized type of surgery can help bring back your confidence by getting rid of scars once and for all.
What should I do to prepare for a reconstruction procedure?
You don’t need to do anything, in particular, to prepare for your procedure, but it’s crucial to let Dr. Bailey know about all medications you take (even over-the-counter varieties). Some drugs may increase your risk of bleeding, and you could need to stop taking them leading up to surgery.
Reconstruction is sometimes performed on the same day as your skin cancer removal, although it can also occur at a later time. Dr. Bailey specializes in advanced multistage flaps to reconstruct skin anywhere. He strategically creates flaps in your skin and sutures them together to improve your skin’s appearance.
For deep, long scars, you might need a skin graft, which involves removing skin from another area of your body and using it to restore your scarred skin. Reconstruction procedures can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the severity of your scarring.
Does it take a long time to recover from reconstruction?
Your recovery time depends on the severity of your initial scarring. Not all procedures are extensive or invasive; it just depends on your needs.
You’re going to experience some soreness and swelling afterward, which is normal. Most patients can return to work and activities within a couple of days, or as they feel ready.
With each passing day, your skin continues to improve and heal. Dr. Bailey may send you home with topical treatments or oral medications to further aid in your recovery process. Follow his instructions carefully and avoid using any unauthorized skin solutions on the surgical site, since this could delay your recovery time or worsen your scars.
Find out if reconstruction is right for you by booking an appointment at either Naaman Clinic location, or by using the online booking feature.
* Individual results may vary.