Facial Skin Cancer Excision

Welcome to our patient information page about facial skin cancer excision and reconstruction surgery. You can learn more about what to expect when you are scheduled for an skin cancer excision. Find pre- and post-operative instructions here.

Have any questions about your upcoming facial skin cancer excision and reconstruction procedure with Dr. Karamy?

Patient Information for Facial Skin Cancer Excision and Reconstruction Surgery

What is Facial Skin Cancer Excision and Reconstruction?

Facial skin cancer excision and reconstruction is a two-step surgical process aimed at removing cancerous or precancerous lesions from the skin of the face and restoring both health and aesthetics.

Skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, often require surgical removal to prevent further spread. Reconstruction with flaps may be necessary to repair the defect created after the excision and to achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome.

Indications for Facial Skin Cancer Excision and Reconstruction:

Facial skin cancer excision and reconstruction may be recommended for individuals with the following conditions:

Confirmed Skin Cancer: If a skin biopsy confirms the presence of cancerous or precancerous cells on the face.
Large or Deep Lesions: Skin cancers that are relatively large or extend deeply into the skin may require more extensive excision and reconstruction to ensure complete removal and optimal wound healing.

What Happens During Facial Skin Cancer Excision Surgery?

Facial Skin Cancer Excision:

Facial skin cancer excision is usually performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent and complexity of the lesion.

The surgeon will carefully remove the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. The goal is to excise all cancer cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Reconstruction with Flaps:

After the excision, the wound created may be too large to close directly without undue tension, which could lead to poor wound healing and unsatisfactory cosmetic results. In such cases, reconstruction with flaps may be necessary.

Flaps are healthy tissue segments, often from nearby areas of the face, which are moved to cover the defect and promote proper healing. This technique allows for better wound closure and improved aesthetics.

Pre-Operative Instructions for Facial Skin Cancer Excision

Before facial skin cancer excision and reconstruction, you will receive specific instructions from your healthcare provider, including:

Medical Evaluation: Your healthcare provider will review your medical history and perform a physical examination to ensure you are in good health for the procedure.
Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter supplements. Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped before the surgery.
Fasting: You will likely be instructed not to eat or drink anything for a specified period before the surgery, usually starting at midnight the night before the procedure.
Skin Marking: The surgical site will be marked to guide the excision and reconstruction and to ensure precise removal of the cancerous tissue.

Post-Operative Care & Instructions

After facial skin cancer excision and reconstruction, you will need to follow specific post-operative care instructions:

Wound Care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry as advised by your healthcare provider.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain medications are usually sufficient to manage any mild discomfort after the surgery.
Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and healing progress.
Sun Protection: Protect the treated area from the sun with clothing, sunscreen, and hats to prevent damage to the healing tissues.

Potential Risks of Facial Skin Cancer Excision and Reconstruction:

While facial skin cancer excision and reconstruction are generally safe, it is essential to be aware of potential risks, which may include:

Bleeding: Some mild bleeding is normal after the surgery, but significant bleeding is rare.
Infection: Infections at the surgical site are uncommon but may occur.
Scarring: After the excision and reconstruction, scarring may develop. However, the use of flaps can often lead to improved cosmetic results.
Nerve Damage: In some cases, facial nerves may be affected, leading to temporary or, rarely, permanent changes in sensation or movement.

If you are experiencing concerning symptoms or have any questions after a procedure with Dr. Karamy, please contact us. For emergencies, please go to urgent care.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this webpage is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment recommendations.

Niagara ENT & Facial Surgeon

Dr. Babak Karamy, MD, FRCSC