If you have been referred for Mohs surgery, you may also have questions about how the wound will be repaired. SARA Surgery in Morton Grove works with local and regional Mohs surgeons to coordinate plastic surgical reconstruction after the skin cancer has been removed.
Mohs Surgery and Reconstruction Have Different Roles
The Mohs surgeon removes the cancer in stages and examines tissue margins. Reconstruction addresses the wound left after removal. Dr. Sara R. Dickie’s role is to assess the repair options with attention to healing, nearby structures, and appearance.
The final size and depth of the wound may not be known until Mohs surgery is complete. That means a repair plan discussed beforehand may need to be adjusted on the day.
Coordinating Your Care
SARA helps coordinate the Mohs appointment and reconstructive care so you understand the sequence. Same-day reconstruction is possible in many cases, but timing depends on the cancer removal, the wound, and scheduling. Confirm your individual arrangements with both teams.
Contact us before your Mohs date when possible. Have the referring surgeon’s details, lesion location, and biopsy information available. Tell the team about medications, allergies, previous procedures in the area, and any difficulties with healing.
How the Wound May Be Repaired
The best repair depends on the wound and surrounding tissue. Options to discuss can include:
- Direct closure: bringing the wound edges together when appropriate.
- A local flap: moving nearby tissue to cover the wound.
- A skin graft: transferring skin from another site.
- A staged repair: completing reconstruction over more than one procedure when needed.
Some wounds may be suitable for healing without an immediate surgical closure. Dr. Dickie will explain the recommendation, alternatives, and likely scar pattern. No repair can guarantee an invisible scar or perfect symmetry.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Instructions vary with the repair. Ask about dressings, washing, activity restrictions, suture removal, and when to contact the team. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, healing problems, and changes in sensation or contour.
Continue skin-cancer follow-up with your treating dermatologist. Once healing is established, questions about persistent scar concerns can be addressed through scar revision assessment. Our skin lesion surgery page provides additional context about removal and repair.
Arrange Your Reconstruction Consultation
Contact SARA Surgery in Morton Grove to discuss your referral and coordinate the next steps with your Mohs surgeon.
