Aesthetic Eye & Surgical Arts

Eyelid & Facial Reconstruction

Specialized reconstruction of the eyelids and facial structures.

Reconstruction of the eyelids and facial structures requires thoughtful planning to restore function, contour, and appearance while respecting the unique anatomy of each patient.

Patient after eyelid reconstruction
Eyelid & Facial ReconstructionActual patient. Individual results vary.

Reconstructive Care

Reconstruction begins after the true defect is known

Skin cancer removal can leave a defect that is larger or more complex than the lesion initially visible on the skin. The size, depth, location, and surrounding anatomy all influence how the area should be repaired.

Dr. Brannan performs reconstruction after Mohs surgery and also treats selected skin cancers with non-Mohs excision when appropriate. The reconstructive plan is individualized after the final defect is evaluated.

The objective is to restore normal function and contour while placing incisions and moving tissue as thoughtfully as possible.

Two Pathways to Care

Mohs and non-Mohs skin cancer treatment

Reconstruction After Mohs Surgery

When a dermatologist or Mohs surgeon removes the skin cancer, reconstruction can be coordinated after the margins are clear. The repair is planned around the final surgical defect.

Learn About Mohs Reconstruction →

Skin Cancer Removal & Reconstruction

For selected lesions, Dr. Brannan can perform non-Mohs excision and reconstruction. The appropriate approach depends on the diagnosis, location, clinical circumstances, and patient needs.

Learn About Skin Cancer Treatment →

Skin Cancer Treatment

Selected cancers may be removed and reconstructed without Mohs surgery

For selected lesions, Dr. Brannan can perform non-Mohs excision when appropriate. The recommended approach depends on the diagnosis, location, size, surrounding anatomy, and individual clinical circumstances.

When non-Mohs excision is selected, cancer removal and reconstruction can be coordinated as part of the same treatment plan. Reconstruction is designed after the true defect is known, with attention to function, contour, and scar placement.

Other cancers are better treated with Mohs surgery. In those cases, reconstruction is coordinated after the Mohs surgeon confirms that the cancer has been removed.

Eyelid Reconstruction

Protecting eyelid function while restoring appearance

The eyelids protect the eye, distribute tears, blink, and maintain a precise position against the ocular surface. Reconstruction therefore involves more than simply closing a skin defect.

Planning may need to account for the eyelid margin, tear drainage system, inner and outer corners of the eye, eyelid support, and adjacent facial structures.

Explore Eyelid Reconstruction →
Reconstructive PrioritiesEye protection and eyelid closureEyelid position and supportNatural contour and symmetryThoughtful scar placement

Understanding Reconstruction

The repair may extend beyond the visible cancer defect

Nearby skin is often moved into the defect to recreate normal contours and distribute tension. As a result, the area involved in reconstruction may be larger than the original defect.

These educational overlays help explain the relationship between the cancer defect and the tissue used for reconstruction.

Educational eyelid reconstruction overlay
Eyelid reconstruction
Educational nasal reconstruction overlay
Facial reconstruction
Actual defectReconstruction footprintDirection of tissue movement

Understanding Reconstruction

Patient Results

Reconstruction tailored to the defect and surrounding anatomy

Selected examples of eyelid and facial reconstruction. Individual results vary.

BeforeBefore eyelid reconstruction
AfterAfter eyelid reconstruction

Eyelid Reconstruction

BeforeBefore facial reconstruction
AfterAfter facial reconstruction

Facial Reconstruction

View Reconstruction Results

Our Approach

Thoughtful planning for each individual defect

Evaluate carefully.Assess the true size, depth, location, and structures involved.
Plan thoughtfully.Select a repair that respects eyelid function and natural facial contours.
Reconstruct meticulously.Use precise tissue handling, tension control, and scar placement.
Follow healing closely.Monitor function, eyelid position, contour, and scar maturation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about skin cancer reconstruction

Do you reconstruct defects after Mohs surgery?

Yes. Reconstruction can be coordinated after the Mohs surgeon has removed the cancer and confirmed clear margins.

Do you also remove skin cancers?

Yes. Selected skin cancers may be treated with non-Mohs excision when appropriate. The recommended approach depends on the diagnosis, location, and individual clinical circumstances.

Why can the reconstruction be larger than the original cancer?

The visible lesion may be smaller than the final defect after complete removal. Reconstruction may also require movement of nearby tissue beyond the defect to restore contour and function.

Why is eyelid reconstruction different?

The eyelids must protect the eye, blink, distribute tears, and maintain precise position. Reconstruction therefore needs to consider function as well as appearance.

When is reconstruction performed after Mohs surgery?

Timing is coordinated according to the defect and clinical circumstances, typically after cancer removal is complete and the final defect is known.

Consultation

Specialized care for eyelid and facial reconstruction

If you have been diagnosed with an eyelid or facial skin cancer, are planning Mohs surgery, or already have a defect requiring reconstruction, treatment begins with careful evaluation and an individualized plan.