The cause of most skin cancer is excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet or UV rays, which is known to impart damage to skin cells. Scientists agree that the free radicals in the sun’s UV rays are among the chief causes of skin cells genetically mutating into malignant cancer cells.
Following the removal of skin cancer, many patients want to restore their appearance and remove the scar or deformity left behind by the cancer treatment. Dr. Olga Bachilo at Glamour Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in Houston is a specialized plastic surgeon with extensive experience in reconstructive surgery performed on patients who have had skin cancer excisions.
There are three most common types of skin cancer, known as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. They are categorized as follows:
is the least dangerous, but the most pervasive, type of skin cancer, although it can grow and spread quickly by gnawing away at neighboring cells and tissue as it expands, causing a sore or ulceration that may eventually pose a significant threat. When this cancer mutates and spreads, it usually becomes increasingly aggressive, growing and spreading more rapidly, and causing more severe damage, which may necessitate a more complicated treatment later on if not treated in time. This cancer usually appears and begins to develop slowly in the area of the scalp, face, neck, and ears, and may affect the chest, shoulders, arms and hands. Basal cell carcinoma accounts for approximately 75% of all cases of skin cancer.
accounts for an estimated 20% of all cases of skin cancer, and is typically less dangerous than melanoma, but pose a dangerous threat to neighboring tissue if left untreated and it can migrate to other areas of the body. Squamous cell carcinoma typically presents a far more severe threat when it affects areas with mucous membranes, including the lips, eyelids, nostrils, sexual organs, or rectum.
is the most aggressive form of skin cancer and can spread to other organs and body parts for instance the lungs, liver, lymphatic system, and brain. Although melanoma represents a mere 5% of all skin cancers, melanoma accounts for an alarming 75% of deaths resulting from skin cancer. Melanoma typically appears as a dark spot or lesion with rough edges, that begins to grow noticeably or changes color.
If you notice any dark spots or skin lesions, moles, or birthmarks that conform to the subsequent “ABCDE” list of descriptors, these should be immediately examined by a doctor and a biopsy performed to exclude the possibility of melanoma.
A: Asymmetrical shape
B: Borders marked by irregular, jagged, or scalloped edges
C: Color that vary between tan, brown, blue, and black in the same lesion
D: Diameter that grows in size or is larger than 6 mm
E: Evolution in shape, size, color, or appearance that may include crusting, scabbing, or ulceration.
When skin cancer invades a relatively large area, it usually requires extensive surgery to remove the malignant lesions. This surgery may leave skin cancer deformities that are visually unappealing and may even interfere with comfort or normal functioning. Thanks to advanced skin cancer reconstructive surgery techniques, an experienced plastic surgeon can repair the affected area in order to restore its natural form, appearance, and function to a large degree.
If you are planning to have a cancerous lesion removed, speak with Dr. Bachilo beforehand to plan for your reconstruction treatment immediately following your procedure. Whenever possible, patients choose to undergo reconstructive surgery immediately or as soon as possible after excision surgery.
Several techniques may be used in the reconstructive surgery, depending on the treatment area and condition. Dr. Bachilo will work closely with your oncology team to help you plan for your reconstructive surgery in the manner most beneficial for your condition, bearing in mind that performing the reconstruction surgery immediately may optimize healing and reduce the recovery period. Nonetheless, there are cases in which, due to a patient’s particular needs or situation, reconstruction surgery may need to be postponed or performed at a later date.
Most skin cancer excisions and reconstructions are performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia in the comfort of the doctor’s office and requires only minimal downtime. You will receive detailed post-operative care instructions following your procedure, explaining how long you must rest, when you can resume normal activities such as bathing, and when to see Dr. Bachilo for a follow-up appointment. Recovery time will vary, depending on the severity of the original surgery and the reconstructive process, but the focus will be on protecting the wound to ensure that the suture is not subjected to injury or impact. By carefully following all of Dr. Bachilo’s post-operative care instructions, you can optimize proper healing and minimize scar formation.
Need to schedule an appointment?
If you’re undergoing a skin cancer excision procedure and want to make sure that you have a competent plastic surgeon lined up for the reconstruction surgery, contact Dr. Olga Bachilo at Glamour Plastic Surgery and Med Spa, where plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures are provided with excellence for residents of Houston and nearby areas in Texas.
OUR CLIENTS' REVIEWS
I decided to try Coolsculpting for the first time on my chin. I was a bit nervous to have the procedure to get rid of my double chin, but OMG I can already see it working! Dr. Bachilo was awesome! She explained how everything works, what the machine does and the sensation I would experience during and after the treatment. I’ve made my appointment to do Coolsculpting on the belly next.
Last month I went in to see Dr. Bachilo to get Dysport injections for my wrinkles and fillers in my cheeks and chin. I was very worried as it was my first time having this procedure done, I didn't know what to expect but Dr. Bachilo was very patient with me she took her time explaining and answering all my questions she made me feel very comfortable.
I was so thankful for her honesty and knowledge of products/procedures that I was wanting to have done. She guided me to the correct breast implant size and recovery was a breeze. When it came to my concern of wrinkles and lines she was extremely understanding and actually listened to me. She explained the different fillers and Botox products, which I am so pleased in everything she did to make me look younger!!! I have recommended her to several friends and will continue to do so!! Just go and she how wonderful she is!
I believe it is essential to find a professional who is in tune with patients’ needs, responsive, can perform the necessary measures and do what is best for the client without heavily promoting additional services. Dr. Bachilo not only met my meticulous expectations, but also exceeded, so I will be back as needed.
I hated wrinkles on my forehead, and nasal labial folds. I had filler injected around nasal labial folds and around corner of my mouth. Botox injection into my forehead. I couldn't be happier with the results. After many comments about why I look so much younger I will definitely have it done again.
Dr. Bachilo performed a lower body lift procedure on me. The work she did on my body and the results are more than amazing. It is life changing the difference it has made for me in how I look and feel. I will say again her work is incredible. From the first time I sat with her to discuss the procedure, to surgery day, and throughout the aftercare, Dr. Bachilo has been tremendous. Her attention to detail is to be applauded as well as her knowledge, confidence, directness, and kindness with you as a patient. I can not say enough how awesome this experience has been for me and how much I am grateful to her!
She has great bedside manner! She was honest & conservative about what she thought I should have done that day in the office. I will be back to see her again! Love that she called to check on my results and how I was feeling.
Life changing! Wonderful experience. Dr. B is so awesome. She listened , and she has given me better results than I could of dreamed of. Amazing Dr. and a very lovely lady ! Her before & after care is top notch.
100% recommend! Dr Bachilo is very courteous, professional, spends more than enough time explaining everything, and truly cares about her patients. Called me the next day to check up on me during her day off!
Mon-Fri 9am-6pm;
Sat 9am-1pm
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