Mohs Reconstruction Surgery Baltimore, MD

What Is the Mohs Reconstruction Technique?

In order to combat this formidable disease, Dr. Frederic Mohs created a process known as chemosurgery. It excises the tumor cells in carefully separated layers, while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue. Once this important phase has been completed by the dermatologic oncologist, a plastic surgeon will typically be called upon to reconstruct the treated areas cosmetically. This is known as Mohs reconstruction, and it may happen directly after the tumor has been removed, or separately at a later time, but most frequently no later than 1 week after cancer removal. It may take several sessions to restore the appearance of the eyes, cheeks, nose or lips, but the result is well worth the time invested. Mohs reconstruction requires a delicate, sophisticated technique, and may utilize skin grafting and/or the use of skin adjacent to the wound, importing in healthy tissue. The surgeon may have to harvest donor tissue from another area of the body for these purposes. Many patients specifically request that a plastic surgeon be involved in the treatment plan, before cancer is actually removed. This is the best approach to having a complete plan in place before undergoing Mohs surgery and being left with an undesirable cosmetic result.