Aesthetic Eye & Surgical Arts
Skin Cancer & Reconstruction
Specialized Eyelid & Facial Reconstruction After Skin Cancer
Skin cancer removal can leave defects that require careful reconstruction to restore both function and appearance.
At Aesthetic Eye & Surgical Arts, Dr. Paul Brannan provides individualized treatment for skin cancers involving the eyelids and face, combining specialized surgical expertise with meticulous attention to detail.
Specialized Eyelid & Facial Reconstruction
The eyelids are among the most delicate and functionally important structures of the face. Successful reconstruction requires restoring eyelid position and function while protecting the eye and preserving a natural appearance.
Dr. Brannan is an ASOPRS fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic surgeon with extensive experience reconstructing the eyelids and surrounding facial structures following skin cancer removal.
His reconstructive expertise also includes the nose, cheeks, forehead, temples, and other facial areas.
Skin Cancer Treatment & Reconstruction
Treatment begins with understanding the type, location, and extent of the skin cancer, along with each patient’s individual needs.
Some patients undergo Mohs surgery performed by a specialized Mohs surgeon, followed by reconstruction with Dr. Brannan. Other patients may be candidates for skin cancer removal and reconstruction performed by Dr. Brannan in a single setting.
The appropriate approach depends on the cancer and the patient’s circumstances. In either situation, the priority is complete cancer removal followed by carefully planned reconstruction.
Understanding Reconstruction
Why the Repair May Be Larger Than the Original Cancer
The visible skin cancer often represents only part of the affected tissue. Complete removal may require excision beyond the visible tumor, creating a larger defect than patients initially expect.
Reconstruction may involve moving surrounding tissue to restore natural contours, preserve eyelid function, and achieve the best possible appearance.
Depending on the size and location of the defect, techniques may include direct closure, local tissue flaps, skin grafts, or more complex reconstructive procedures.
The educational overlay illustrates:
- Red: The actual skin cancer defect after removal.
- Blue: The larger area of tissue involved in reconstruction.
- Yellow arrow: The direction of tissue movement during repair.
The objective is always the same: restore function, preserve appearance, and achieve the best possible outcome.
Experience, Precision & Personalized Care
Dr. Brannan brings extensive experience in eyelid and facial reconstruction, including the repair of complex defects following skin cancer removal.
His approach combines specialized surgical training, careful planning, and meticulous attention to detail. Each reconstruction is individualized according to the patient’s anatomy, functional needs, and aesthetic goals.
At Aesthetic Eye & Surgical Arts, our philosophy is simple:
Listen carefully. Diagnose accurately. Personalize thoughtfully. Treat meticulously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my reconstruction be done the same day as cancer removal?
In many cases, yes. Timing depends on the type of cancer treatment and individual circumstances.
Is Mohs surgery always required?
No. Some skin cancers are best treated with Mohs surgery, while others can be successfully treated using different approaches.
Will there be a scar?
Any surgery creates a scar, but reconstruction is designed to place incisions strategically and help scars heal as inconspicuously as possible.
Why is the repair larger than the cancer?
The visible cancer often represents only a portion of the tissue that must be removed to achieve complete treatment.
How long does recovery take?
Initial healing generally occurs over several weeks, with scar maturation continuing for months.
Will insurance cover reconstruction?
Reconstructive surgery following skin cancer removal is typically covered by insurance, although individual plans vary.
Can Dr. Brannan remove the skin cancer as well?
In some cases, yes. Certain patients are candidates for skin cancer removal and reconstruction performed by Dr. Brannan in a single setting. Others may undergo Mohs surgery before reconstruction. The best approach depends on the type, location, and extent of the cancer.
Whether you need reconstruction following Mohs surgery, treatment of a newly diagnosed skin cancer, or evaluation of a suspicious lesion, we are here to help.
Aesthetic Eye & Surgical Arts
📞 (941) 921-0400
📍 5310 Clark Road, Suite 106
Sarasota, FL 34233