Skin Cancer Treatment and Facial Reconstruction

Skin Cancer Treatment and Facial Reconstruction

Skin tumors are the most common cancers, and on the face and neck they deserve prompt attention to protect both health and appearance. Non-healing sores, new bumps, or scars that don't improve should be checked by a doctor. Dr. Kristin Egan works closely with dermatologists to diagnose and remove skin cancers and to restore facial form and function with precise reconstruction.

Common Signs to Check

• A sore that doesn't heal or keeps bleeding

• A pearly or translucent bump, often with visible tiny blood vessels

• A scaly, crusted, or rough patch that may be tender

• A scar-like, firm, flat area that slowly enlarges

• A mole that changes in size, shape, or color (ABCDEs: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving)

A Team Approach: Dermatology + Facial Plastic Surgery

Most facial skin cancers are diagnosed by a dermatologist with a biopsy. Many basal cell and squamous cell cancers on the face are removed with Mohs micrographic surgery, which checks 100% of the margin in stages and preserves as much healthy tissue as possible. Dr. Egan coordinates closely with your dermatologist to plan reconstruction—often on the same day as Mohs—so you receive seamless care focused on cure, function, and appearance.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Your care typically begins with a skin exam and biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Depending on the cancer type, size, and location, treatment may include standard surgical excision or Mohs surgery. Melanoma and some advanced lesions may involve additional specialists. After tumor removal, Dr. Egan designs a reconstruction tailored to your anatomy and goals, prioritizing breathing, eyelid and lip function, and a balanced, natural-appearing result.

Facial Reconstruction After Skin Cancer: Our Goals

Reconstruction on the face is about more than closing a wound. Dr. Egan's goals are to protect function (breathing, blinking, speaking, smiling), preserve facial landmarks, and minimize visible scarring. Plans are individualized based on defect size, depth, and location (nose, eyelids, lips, cheeks, ears, scalp) and may be completed in one stage or in thoughtfully timed steps.

Techniques We Use

• Local tissue rearrangement (local flaps) to borrow nearby skin with a good color/texture match

• Skin grafts when local tissue is limited, using thin or full-thickness skin from a discreet donor site

• Cartilage support (often from the ear or nasal septum) to maintain airway and shape in nasal repairs

• Layered, meticulous closures to align natural lines and reduce scar visibility

• Staged reconstruction when needed for complex or larger defects for optimal function and contour

Your Visit: What to Expect on the Day of Reconstruction

1. 1

   Pre-op review of the Mohs or excision result and your reconstruction plan

2. 2

   Local anesthesia with or without sedation, depending on the repair

3. 3

   Precise reconstruction tailored to the defect and your anatomy

4. 4

   Detailed instructions before you go home, including wound care and medications

5. 5

   A scheduled follow-up to monitor healing and remove sutures when appropriate

Recovery, Scars, and Follow-Up

Most patients return to light activities within a few days, avoiding strenuous exercise until cleared. Bruising and swelling improve over 1–2 weeks. Scars typically mature over several months; sun protection, silicone gel or sheets, and gentle scar massage may help optimize results. Dr. Egan will guide you on timing for any refinements if desired after full healing.

When to Call Us After Surgery

• Worsening pain, redness, or drainage that could suggest infection

• Bleeding that doesn't stop with gentle pressure

• Fever, chills, or increasing swelling

• Concerns about breathing, eyelid closure, lip function, or vision

Why Choose Dr. Kristin Egan

• Dual board-certified in Otolaryngology (ENT) and Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

• Extensive training: Princeton; Albert Einstein College of Medicine; UCSF; fellowship at Upstate Medical University

• More than a decade of practice in Manhattan Beach (since 2011), caring for local and destination patients

• Close collaboration with leading dermatologists for coordinated Mohs reconstruction

• Focus on predictable healing, function, and discreet, balanced results

Locations and Service Areas

Dr. Egan sees patients in Manhattan Beach and Torrance, serving the Beach Cities and nearby communities. Skin cancer evaluations and reconstructive procedures are performed through the Manhattan Beach office and the Torrance office.

Schedule a Consultation

If you've been diagnosed with a facial or neck skin cancer—or notice a spot that isn't healing—request a consultation with Dr. Egan. We'll coordinate with your dermatologist, explain your options, and design a reconstruction plan focused on your health, function, and appearance.