A member asked:

How do surgeons deal with facial asymmetries when performing cancer reconstruction surgery? i recently had a surgery for facial melanoma on my left cheek. i will soon undergo facial cancer reconstruction surgery to restore my physical appearance to an acc

4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Samuel Bartholomew answered

Specializes in Hand Surgery

Reconstruction : Reconstruction following removal of a skin cancer can be a challenging process. Options include placing a skin graft, using local tissue flaps or free tissue transfer. Local tissue flaps that include hair-bearing skin are planned with care to ensure a natural result. Depending on the location of the cancer, it may not always be possible to have hair-bearing skin in a natural position. Hair is unwanted places can be shaved or removed with lasers. Most defects in hair-bearing areas such as the cheek will utilize local hair-bearing skin so loss of hair may not be a problem. Areas such as eyebrows may be reconstructed with hair-bearing flaps or hair transplants.

Answered 10/3/2016

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Dr. Gary Tuma answered

Specializes in Facial Plastic Surgery

Facial recon: There are many options for facial reconstruction. It depends on the defect itself, the location and the surrounding soft tissue. You should see a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon to go over your options.

Answered 8/5/2017

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