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Harmony Facial Plastic Surgery In Nashville
Skin cancer is on the rise. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancers like Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Basal Cell Carcinoma are some of the most common forms of cancer in the United States. When you receive a diagnosis of cancer, the last thing you should have to worry about is your appearance. Dr. Kate O’Connor is a skilled facial plastic surgeon who has unique training and has developed a holistic approach to healing. She strives to offer the best skin cancer reconstruction Nashville has to offer.
Nashville Skin Cancer Reconstruction
Reconstructing the area where skin cancer has been removed takes many forms, depending on the size and type of cancer. In some cases, the edges of the wound are repaired with sutures.
In other cases, when appropriate, the wound will heal on its own without sutures. Where sutures are not used, the wound will be covered by a new layer of skin. This may result in a lighter-colored spot or depression in the skin. It may be the ideal choice, however, for a small area that has been removed. For cancer surgery that has removed more skin, local flap reconstruction or skin grafting may be a better fit for your skin cancer reconstruction.
Local flap reconstruction, the most common type of skin cancer reconstruction, uses the skin next to the site of cancer to allow a flap of skin that can be rotated or draped to cover the wound. The incision to remove the cancer is lengthened to cut the flap. Local flaps can sometimes be done in areas of the face that have a small amount of excess skin or skin that is more easily stretched. The advantage is that the skin color and texture is an excellent match.
Skin grafting uses skin from one part of the body, cut in the shape and size of the place where the cancer was removed. The location where the skin is taken is precisely stitched and heals without being noticeable. The skin graft will form its own blood supply, which will allow it to look and function as normal facial skin.
The advantage of this technique is that the original incision does not have to be lengthened. However, skin color and texture matches are more difficult. Some techniques will require several visits over weeks, especially in those cases where larger areas need to be repaired. Nashville skin cancer reconstruction from Dr. Kate O’Connor will gain the benefit of her extensive training to reduce the aesthetic damage left by skin cancer.
Holistic Plastic Surgery In Nashville
Most important is the assurance that cancer has been removed. Restoration of the removal site can give a patient a more normal appearance. Facial scars are concerning to most patients. In many cases, incisions on the face can be hidden in natural shadows or lines, reducing or eliminating the visibility of scars.
Dr. O’Connor in Nashville
If you have had or are about to have skin cancer removed, you are a candidate for skin cancer reconstruction. The repair can often be done at the same time as the cancer is removed. Occasionally, reconstruction will be done sometime afterward. The length of time depends on the amount of damage to the skin during cancer removal. However, Dr. O’Connor brings a deliberate and holistic approach to skin cancer reconstruction in Nashville, restoring the most natural appearance possible.
Unique Skills. Compassionate Care.
Dr. O’Connor believes in extensive, honest counseling so patients are prepared. She will discuss the type of procedure she will use for reconstruction after skin cancer surgery.
She will administer either local anesthesia with pain medication and medication to help you relax if needed or twilight anesthesia. It is rare to need general anesthesia but available for patients who need it. The length of time of the surgery depends on the amount of work needed. Dr. O’Connor will provide you with detailed instructions for your skin cancer reconstruction recovery. Follow-up visits and, if needed, additional treatments will be scheduled.
Recovery in Nashville
Recovery depends on the location, size, and method used for the restoration. Sutures will be removed in the office, usually within a few days to one week. You may have some swelling and bruising for a few weeks. The location of the surgery will improve in appearance over the next few months. Complete healing may take up to a year, and scars should start to fade until they are not noticeable.
Dr. O’Connor’s focus on post-operative care may decrease your skin cancer reconstruction recovery time. Her techniques include integrative healing practices, such as acupuncture and supplements. Following her instructions carefully will provide the best results. Avoiding sun exposure is extremely important to reduce your chances of additional skin cancer and ensure the scars are not affected.
Results in Nashville
Although skin cancer reconstruction cannot bring back your exact pre-cancerous appearance, you will see a much-improved appearance and facial contour that will blend inconspicuously with your face. The skill and focus that Dr. O’Connor brings to any procedure will result in a natural look. Dr. O’Connor will outline what other techniques, including scar revision, can help restore your face.
Dr. O’Connor is a member of both the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. She specializes in making her patients feel comfortable and valued. If you are in Nashville, skin cancer reconstruction starts with a consultation with Kate O’Connor, MD.
When you decide to explore the surgical refinement of a facial feature, our goal at Harmony Facial Plastic Surgery is to begin your journey as a united team. We take our role in your care, happiness, and confidence to heart and strive to make your entire experience smooth and empowering. We will answer all your questions and help you understand your options to make the best decisions for yourself with a clear vision of your aesthetic goal in mind. We’re here to help you achieve your most confident self.
1017 16th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37212
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1017 16th Avenue South, Nashville TN 37212
615-314-6800
Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm
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