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Rebuilding Appearance & Function After Skin Cancer Excision

Skin Cancer Reconstruction

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States — and Florida's Emerald Coast, with its year-round sun exposure, sees a higher-than-average incidence among residents. When skin cancer is surgically removed, it often leaves a wound or defect that requires skilled reconstruction to restore both appearance and function.

Dr. Steven Clark, M.D., D.M.D., FACS, works closely with dermatologists and Mohs surgeons across the region to provide seamless reconstructive care following excision. Whether the lesion was on the face, ear, nose, scalp, or body, Dr. Clark uses proven techniques to achieve natural-looking results with minimal visible scarring.

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What is Skin Cancer Reconstruction?

When skin cancer is removed surgically, the resulting wound — called a defect — must be closed in a way that restores the normal appearance of the skin and, in some areas, preserves underlying function. The complexity of the reconstruction depends on the size and location of the defect. Areas like the nose, eyelids, lips, and ears are particularly challenging due to their structural complexity and high visual prominence.

Dr. Clark has extensive experience with cases following Mohs micrographic surgery — a common skin cancer removal technique that prioritizes tissue preservation, leaving specialized wound closure to a reconstructive surgeon.

Reconstruction Techniques We Use

  • Primary closure — direct stitching of wound edges for smaller defects, placed along natural skin tension lines to minimize scarring
  • Skin grafts — transplanting a thin layer of skin from another area of the body to cover larger defects while preserving color and texture match
  • Local flaps — rearranging nearby tissue to fill a defect, preserving natural skin color and texture in the repaired area
  • Ear and nose reconstruction — rebuilding cartilage-supported structures using specialized multi-stage techniques
  • Eyelid reconstruction — restoring normal lid position, closure, and function following periocular excision
  • Scar revision — refining the appearance of healed surgical sites at a follow-up stage once healing has stabilized

What to Expect

Referral & Consultation

Many patients arrive via referral from their dermatologist or Mohs surgeon. Dr. Clark reviews the defect and develops a plan to restore your appearance as naturally as possible.

Surgery

Procedures range from simple in-office closures under local anesthesia to outpatient reconstructions. Most take one to two hours.

Recovery

Swelling and bruising are common in the first one to two weeks. Most patients resume normal activities within two weeks of surgery.

Final Results

Results refine over six to twelve months as scars mature and fade. Scar revision can be offered at a follow-up stage if needed.

Goals of Skin Cancer Reconstruction

  • Achieve clean wound closure after cancer excision
  • Restore natural facial contours and skin surface
  • Preserve functional structures — eyelids, nose, lips, ears
  • Minimize visible scarring at the excision site
  • Maintain the natural color and texture of the repaired skin
  • Support emotional recovery and confidence after diagnosis

Why Choose Bluewater for Skin Cancer Reconstruction?

Board-Certified Reconstructive Expertise

Dr. Clark is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with deep experience in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery — the full skill set complex cancer cases require.

Facial Anatomy Specialization

His dual M.D. and D.M.D. training provides unusually thorough knowledge of facial structures — critical for reconstruction near the nose, eyelids, ears, and mouth.

Coordinated Referral Care

We work closely with referring dermatologists and Mohs surgeons, communicating directly with your treatment team for a seamless transition from excision to reconstruction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after Mohs surgery can reconstruction be done?

In many cases, reconstruction is performed immediately following Mohs excision on the same day. In other situations, it is scheduled within a few days to weeks. Dr. Clark coordinates directly with your Mohs surgeon on timing to ensure the best outcome.

Will my reconstructed skin look natural?

Dr. Clark carefully selects techniques that preserve the natural color, texture, and contour of the repaired area. While all surgery leaves some trace, the goal is always a result that looks as natural as possible and improves progressively over the following months.

Does insurance cover skin cancer reconstruction?

Reconstruction following medically necessary cancer removal is typically covered by health insurance. Our team will assist with any documentation needed to support your insurance claim.

Do you accept referrals from dermatologists and Mohs surgeons?

Yes — we actively welcome referrals and are happy to coordinate directly with your treating dermatologist or Mohs surgeon. Please call our office at (850) 530-6064 or have your provider contact us directly.

How do I schedule a consultation?

Request an appointment online and our team will reach out to confirm your consultation with Dr. Clark.

Treating Skin Cancer is Just the First Step

Experience You Can Trust | Results You Will Love

Appointments(850) 530-6064