Skin cancer is incredibly common, and it can have serious effects on the body. If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, you may also have worries about post-treatment scars and other possible disfigurements.
All of this means you might consider some form of cosmetic surgery. These are some of the most common procedures used after skin cancer to reduce aesthetic concerns post-treatment.
What Is Primary Repair?
One method used to address aesthetics after skin cancer is called primary repair. Primary repair addresses the edges of the specific wound you have, ensuring that the scarring can blend in with the surrounding skin rather than stick out against it. If you are concerned about scarring left after treatment, this is an important consideration.
What Is Secondary Repair?
Secondary repair allows the area of treatment to heal naturally. The doctor may not take the same steps they would do with primary repair. This does mean that you may experience some scarring or changes in skin quality and color after treatment.
What Is Skin Grafting?
In some situations, the doctor may recommend skin grafting. This step involves taking a piece of skin from one part of the body and apply it to the treated area. This can still have some visible impact, but it may still provide you with improved aesthetics.
What Is Flap Reconstruction?
Local flap reconstruction uses skin next to the area where you received skin cancer treatment. This means your incision may be longer so that it can reach skin next to the incision site. This can make a scar much less visible.
In some cases, the doctor may be able to perform a free flap reconstruction. This process uses tissue from a separate part of the body — perhaps a limb — to allow for adequate blood flow to the treatment area. This can be a more involved process that takes longer to heal.
Speak With a Professional
It is completely normal to want to ensure that scarring and other issues are not the focal point of your body after you have skin cancer. With your doctor, you can build a plan that helps you maintain your appearance as much as possible and as safely as possible.
If you have or had skin cancer, you may consider getting treatment to address the aesthetics. A dermatologist can help you determine what you need to do next. Make an appointment at a dermatology clinic today to learn more about your treatment options.
