Is Skin Cancer Reconstruction Painful?

The use of local anesthesia during skin cancer reconstruction ensures that the procedure itself is not painful. After the surgery, you might feel some mild discomfort or tenderness once the anesthesia wears off, but this can be managed with prescribed pain medications. The degree of discomfort varies depending on the complexity of the reconstruction and your personal pain threshold.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

On average, most of our Chicago patients may need 3 to 5 appointments to complete skin cancer reconstruction treatment. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of the case and individual healing progress. Typically, you will have an initial consultation, the surgery itself, and several follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.

How Long Until I See Results?

The results of skin cancer reconstruction can be seen gradually over time. Initially, you will notice immediate improvements in the appearance of the reconstructed area, but it may take several weeks for swelling and bruising to subside. Most patients observe significant progress within a few months, with the final results becoming more apparent as the healing process continues. The complete transformation and refined appearance will typically be visible within six months to a year, depending on individual healing rates and the complexity of the reconstruction.

Can I Combine Skin Cancer Reconstruction With Other Procedures?

Yes, you can combine skin cancer reconstruction with other procedures for a comprehensive rejuvenation. Dr. Karthik Shastri in Chicago often pairs skin cancer reconstruction with facelifts , rhinoplasty , eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty ), and neck lifts to achieve harmonious and balanced results. Combining these procedures can enhance your overall appearance and provide a more youthful look.

What Are the Risks Associated With Skin Cancer Reconstruction?

Skin cancer reconstruction, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks. These can include infection, scarring, bleeding, rejection of skin grafts, wound rupture, fluid buildup, nerve dysfunction, and hematoma.

Chicago, IL

Skin Cancer Reconstruction

Introduction

Introduction to Skin Cancer Reconstruction

Facing a skin cancer diagnosis is daunting enough without the added worry of how treatment might affect your appearance. For those who’ve undergone surgery to remove skin cancer, the concern of unsightly scars or disfigurement can be just as troubling. That’s where skin cancer reconstruction steps in, offering a pathway to not only heal but restore confidence. Through meticulous techniques, Dr. Karthik Shastri in Chicago expertly rebuilds and repairs affected areas, blending them seamlessly with the surrounding skin. This transformative process ensures you can focus on recovery, knowing your appearance is in skilled hands.

What is Skin Cancer Reconstruction?

Skin cancer reconstruction is a surgical procedure that aims to repair and restore the appearance and function of areas affected by skin cancer removal. It often involves techniques such as skin grafts, local flaps, or other reconstructive methods to close the wound and minimize scarring. The goal is to achieve the best cosmetic and functional outcome while removing all cancerous cells. Double board-certified Dr. Shastri, with his expertise in facial plastic surgery, is skilled in performing these complex reconstructions to provide natural-looking results.

Close-up of a middle-aged woman with short gray hair examining her face in a mirror, touching her cheeks and eye area with a thoughtful expression. Soft lighting highlights her skin's natural texture and fine lines. She wears a white bathrobe, and the mirror's reflection clearly captures her face and hands. The background is blurred, keeping the focus on her and her reflection. - Skin Cancer Reconstruction in Glenview, IL

What Are the Benefits of Skin Cancer Reconstruction?

After the necessary removal of skin cancer, reconstruction plays a crucial role in restoring both form and function. This surgery addresses aesthetic concerns and helps patients move forward with renewed confidence and peace of mind.

Benefits include:

Restores appearance and function of affected areas
Comprehensive Healing
Functional Recovery
Minimizes scarring
Improves Cosmetic Outcomes
Enhances patient confidence and quality of life

Who Are the Best Candidates For Skin Cancer Reconstruction?

Understanding who can benefit most from skin cancer reconstruction helps ensure successful outcomes. Typically, individuals who have had skin cancer removed and desire to restore their appearance and skin functionality make excellent candidates for reconstruction.

Characteristics of the best candidates for this procedure are:

Early-stage skin cancer diagnosis
Good overall health
Good skin quality
No history of radiation therapy
Non-smokers
No active infections

Consultation and Assessment

What’s the first step?

Your path to elegantly refined skin begins with booking a consultation with Dr. Shastri. At this appointment, Dr. Shastri will evaluate your unique needs and tailor a treatment plan specifically for you. Preparing for the procedure may include quitting smoking, avoiding medications that heighten bleeding risk, and ensuring you have transportation home post-surgery. These preparatory steps will set the stage for a smooth, effective process and stunning results.

What to Expect on the Day of Skin Cancer Reconstruction Surgery

With the arrival of your skin cancer reconstruction surgery day, a blend of nervousness and excitement sets the tone. The clinic’s welcoming atmosphere and Dr. Shastri’s compassionate approach help you feel at ease. Our Chicago medical team will discuss the procedure and address any last-minute questions or concerns. You’ll then be prepared for surgery, which may involve local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the reconstruction. Dr. Shastri will meticulously repair the affected area using advanced techniques such as skin grafts, local flaps, or tissue expansion to achieve the best cosmetic and functional outcome.

Skin Cancer Reconstruction Recovery

Recovery from skin cancer reconstruction involves several key steps to ensure optimal healing. Initially, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications and proper wound care. It is important to follow Dr. Shastri’s post-operative instructions, including keeping the surgical site clean and avoiding strenuous activities. Regular follow-up appointments will help monitor your progress, address any concerns, and ensure that the healing process is on track for the best possible outcome.

How Much Does Skin Cancer Reconstruction Cost in Chicago, IL?

The price of skin cancer reconstruction in Chicago, IL, is influenced by various elements. These include the intricacy of the surgery, the surgeon’s expertise, and the specific methods used during the procedure. Other considerations, such as the geographical location and the clinic’s facilities, also impact the cost. To get a detailed estimate, you should schedule a consultation with Dr. Shastri, a skilled facial plastic surgeon.

Why Choose KSMD Facial Plastic Surgery?

Choosing KSMD Facial Plastic Surgery means entrusting your care to Dr. Karthik Shastri, a distinguished surgeon with a robust educational and training background. Dr. Shastri grew up in the northern Chicagoland region and excelled academically as an Echols Scholar at the University of Virginia. He earned his medical degree from Drexel University and completed a rigorous Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery residency at Albany Medical Center, specializing in facial trauma and reconstructive surgery. Further refining his skills, Dr. Shastri undertook a prestigious fellowship at Vanderbilt University, focusing on advanced facial plastic surgery techniques like facelifts and rhinoplasty. His approach emphasizes natural, long-lasting results backed by his active participation in research and continuous education.

Skin Cancer Reconstruction FAQ’S

The use of local anesthesia during skin cancer reconstruction ensures that the procedure itself is not painful. After the surgery, you might feel some mild discomfort or tenderness once the anesthesia wears off, but this can be managed with prescribed pain medications. The degree of discomfort varies depending on the complexity of the reconstruction and your personal pain threshold.
On average, most of our Chicago patients may need 3 to 5 appointments to complete skin cancer reconstruction treatment. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of the case and individual healing progress. Typically, you will have an initial consultation, the surgery itself, and several follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
The results of skin cancer reconstruction can be seen gradually over time. Initially, you will notice immediate improvements in the appearance of the reconstructed area, but it may take several weeks for swelling and bruising to subside. Most patients observe significant progress within a few months, with the final results becoming more apparent as the healing process continues. The complete transformation and refined appearance will typically be visible within six months to a year, depending on individual healing rates and the complexity of the reconstruction.
Yes, you can combine skin cancer reconstruction with other procedures for a comprehensive rejuvenation. Dr. Karthik Shastri in Chicago often pairs skin cancer reconstruction with facelifts, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), and neck lifts to achieve harmonious and balanced results. Combining these procedures can enhance your overall appearance and provide a more youthful look.

5.0 – 3 Reviews

Mohs Procedure

I had a very minor Mohs procedure about a year ago. It has healed incredibly well and the scar is barely visible (people do not notice it unless I point it out to them). The receptionist at the hospital told me that Dr. Shastri was “phenomenal” and that I was in great hands before my procedure. This was true. As someone else described in a previous review, Dr. Shastri exudes a calm confidence and is gentle. He did an excellent job stitching up my wound and monitoring the scar throughout the healing process. I appreciate his attentiveness; his skillful suturing is like a work of art. I am grateful that I was referred to him by my dermatologist. He is a phenomenal plastic surgeon — both in his work and bedside manner

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Mohs Surgery

Dr. Shastri was very competent at my facial Mohs surgery and thats saying alot, it was major.. His skill is obvious, as more than 15 tiny stitches were virtually painless and will be hard to spot. He was punctual. Clear regarding the procedure. Super bedside manor. Highly recommend him and his staff.

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Skin Cancer

Wonderful! He patiently explained the different types of skins cancers, identified the one I had, then described how he would treat it. He answered all my questions, even the dumb ones. He just exuded a calm competence. For the skin graft, I felt like I’d had the benefit of an artist ad well as a doctor. Mary, the nurse, contributed greatly to making the entire experience positive. The online system for getting an appointment, confirming it and messaging the medical team is complicated, Byzantine, and frustrating, particularly for old guys like me. However it is definitely worth struggling through it. If I could add more stars I would.

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Meet the Doctor

Schedule a Consultation

Booking a consultation with Dr. Shastri has never been simpler. Call (847) 535-6545 to secure your appointment, or visit our office at 2701 Patriot Blvd, Glenview, IL 60025. You can also fill out the form on our website for an easy and quick scheduling process.