Over a million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed and treated each year in the United States. Over 80% of these cancers are on the face or head and neck region. This number is constantly increasing due to Americans' love of the sun and outdoor activities without the use of sun protection. These skin cancers often require special treatment to ensure complete removal of the tumor, in addition to careful cosmetic reconstruction to achieve minimal deformity and a natural aesthetic result.

Dr. Guida has extensive experience in facial reconstruction following excision of skin cancers or as a result of facial trauma. He has published numerous articles and lectured extensively on the various types of facial reconstructive techniques. Dr. Guida works closely with specially trained dermatologists, known as Mohs surgeons. These dermatologists have advanced training, allowing them to remove the skin cancers under microscopic guidance to achieve the highest possible cure rates while preserving as much normal tissue as possible. Often after the cancer excision, the result is a significant soft tissue and sometimes structural defects. Dr. Guida then chooses the most appropriate technique, from skin grafting to simple or complex facial flaps, to most appropriately reconstruct these defects.


How is the reconstructive surgery done?
Frequently the reconstructive procedures can be done in his AAAHC office operating suite using either local anesthesia or a twilight, monitored anesthetic. The operation is most commonly done on an ambulatory basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day. There may be a pressure dressing on the wound which can be removed the next day. Sutures are usually removed in less than a week and covered with camouflaged, flesh colored Steri-Strips.

Each reconstructive procedure is highly individualized and the specific details can vary somewhat among patients, depending on the location and size of the lesion. Dr. Guida will work closely with you, your dermatologist, and Mohs surgeon to help ensure your comfort during the stress of having the surgery. Dr. Guida and his staff will help to ensure the best possible cosmetic result, and guiding you through the healing process.

How will I heal after reconstructive surgery?
The results of the reconstructive procedures most often are very positive and require no further treatment. Rarely, after the reconstructive process is over, patients may desire further treatment of any noticeable scarring. Dr. Guida has in depth experience with treatment and camouflage of scars after accidents or surgery. Early in the healing process, there are effective topical anti-scar creams that can minimize the appearance of a scar early during the healing phase. Occasionally, scars can be more effectively treated with either laser resurfacing or possibly scar revision surgery. This can be done months to years after the procedure.