Unfortunately, we are continuing to see skin cancer rapidly rise in a number of patients and as a result, they’re requiring skin reconstruction surgery. The procedure to remove skin cancer cells can often leave defects on the skin which require reconstruction of the skin in order to provide it with a more aesthetically pleasing result. In this vlog, we’ll be exploring the different ways to reconstruct skin defects caused by cancer and where they commonly take place.
The face is considered the most common area where skin reconstruction surgery is required and there are several areas where it can occur on the face. The example case study of this patient shows where she required the required face reconstruction. As part of the skin reconstruction surgery, local tissue was used to help with reconstructing the face. This is commonly known as a local flap which occurs in the nose area. For this particular example, the flap has its own blood supply with the reconstruction being relatively simple due to the colour and consistency of the defect. As a result, this has provided an aesthetically pleasing result.
Another way to reconstruct the skin following the removal of a defect is through skin grafting. This method can still leave a slight defect on the skin after the skin reconstruction surgery and it can appear apparent.
However, skin used from behind the ear or neck can provide a more aesthetically pleasing result.
Larger defects will require skin grafts which take the top layer of skin from the thigh. Contouring can appear worse but this is an ideal method to use in order to reconstruct the skin and allowing the skin to contract to make the defect appear smaller. Tissues can also be manipulated directly which can provide the best results out of the options available but it’s best to discuss these during your consultation to understand what’s best for you.
If you’d like more information on skin reconstruction procedures then you can get in touch by contacting us here or by calling 0161 401 4064.
