Often, people feel anxious about scars after skin cancer removal, especially when the surgery is on the face. But don’t worry it is very common and plastic surgeons are specialised in restoring appearance and function after excision or Mohs surgery. Reconstruction aims to support healing, protect the area, and achieve the best cosmetic outcome possible. Doctify helps patients find experienced plastic surgeons for the best reconstruction.
Why reconstruction is needed after skin cancer surgery
During excision or Mohs surgery, cancerous tissue is cut and removed while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Some wounds can heal on their own, while others need reconstruction to help them close properly, maintain facial symmetry, or reduce long-term scarring. Every case is unique, and the plastic surgeon plans reconstruction based on size, depth, and location of the wound.
Reconstruction options: what they are and when they’re used
Surgeons choose the least invasive option that still gives a good result. Below are the most used reconstruction options:
a. Primary closure
In this technique, the wound edges are gently brought together with stitches. It is most common for small, shallow defects. Usually leaves a fine, linear scar that fades well.
b. Skin grafts
Here, a thin layer of skin is taken from elsewhere on the body to cover the wound. Colour and texture may differ slightly at first but improve over time. Often used when primary closure isn’t possible.
c. Local flaps
In this procedure, nearby skin is moved into the wound while keeping its blood supply intact. This one offers the best cosmetic blend for areas like the nose, lips, or eyelids. Helps match skin tone and texture more naturally.
d. Healing by secondary intention
In selected cases, the wound is left open to heal gradually on its own. Sometimes gives excellent cosmetic results for concave areas (e.g. around the eye).
What to expect during the healing process
The normal early changes expected during the healing process after a reconstruction are: swelling, redness, tightness, and mild discomfort. On the other hand, scar maturation takes time and this is completely normal.
Here is a timeline that explains how typical recovery works:
- First 1–2 weeks: stitches removed, early swelling subsides.
- Weeks 4–12: scar becomes firmer and pinker.
- Months 3–12: scar softens, fades, and flattens.
Tips to help scars heal as smoothly as possible
Here are some tips that can help scars heal smoothly and as soon as possible:
- Keep the area clean and follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions.
- Avoid sun exposure and use SPF 30–50 daily to prevent darkening of new scars.
- Use approved moisturisers or silicone gels/sheets when recommended.
- Avoid smoking, which slows healing.
- Be patient: scars continue to improve for up to a year.
When to expect follow-up and long-term monitoring
Regular check-ups are needed to evaluate healing, graft or flap success, and scar progression. Besides, dermato-oncology and/or plastic surgery teams will also monitor for any signs of recurrence. Nevertheless, we recommend you to reach out early if they notice redness, pain, or thickening around the scar.
Emotional reassurance: It’s normal to worry about appearance
Don’t be ashamed, it’s normal to worry about appearance, many people feel more confident over time as scars fade. As well, We know the emotional impact of facial surgery, especially after cancer, but you are not alone. We have great plastic surgeons and dermato-oncologists that will be willing to help and support you. Also, there are available supportive options such as nurse specialists, counselling, or skin camouflage services.
When revision or additional treatments may help
Sometimes scars benefit from later treatments, yet these are elective and used only when needed.
These additional treatments are such as:
- Steroid injections
- Laser resurfacing
- Scar revision surgery
How to choose a surgeon for reconstruction
Expertise in skin cancer reconstruction is crucial because it restores a patient’s appearance and function, especially for defects on the face. For choosing the plastic surgeon that best suits you, we recommend checking patient reviews, before-and-after photos, and qualifications. Doctify helps patients find trusted, reviewed plastic surgeons.
Conclusion
Reconstruction after skin cancer surgery is highly personalised and often achieves excellent, natural-looking results. Every case is unique, and the plastic surgeon plans reconstruction based on size, depth, and location of the wound. Patients should ask questions, understand their options, and seek support throughout their recovery. It is worth reminding you that Doctify can connect them with specialists experienced in skin cancer reconstruction.
Feel free to consult a plastic surgeon through Doctify for personalised advice whenever you want, we will be happy to help you! Find the best plastic surgeons in the United Kingdom or search for the best specialists globally:
- Plastic surgeons in the United Arab Emirates
- Plastic surgeons in Germany
- Plastic surgeons in Austria
- Plastic surgeons in Ireland
- Plastic surgeons in Australia
Medically Reviewed
Last reviewed on 25/11/2025
