Repairs Following Mohs Micrographic Surgery

The Surgical Dermatology NP's Role 

While Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) for skin cancer is performed by fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeons, the repair of the surgical site is often a separate, equally important step.

Dr. Theresa Talens, DNP, FNP-C has been practicing with this unique skillset and role —14+ years—at a Mohs practice, mastering repairs following MMS - "post-Mohs repairs".

She is now continuing to carry this role into her clinic with extensive experience, building a deep level of confidence, precision, and expertise.

She approaches each repair with the goal of achieving the best functional and aesthetic outcome.

Patients can feel confident knowing their care is coordinated and comprehensive from start to finish.

Dr. Talens and her team coordinate care seamlessly with the Mohs surgeon and the patient, ensuring that treatment is continuous and that patients move directly from cancer removal to reconstruction without delay.

Here is a simple look on how MMS works and how Dr. Talens plays an important role in your repair and healing following MMS.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

• During MMS, a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon removes the skin cancer layer by layer and examines each section under a microscope until the margins are clear—meaning all cancer cells have been removed.

Surgical Repair following MMS

• Once the cancer is fully removed by the Mohs surgeon, Dr. Talens then performs the surgical closure (repair) of the Mohs site.

• The reconstruction may be done immediately or scheduled later, depending on patient and defect needs.

What Are My Options for Mohs Repair?

Dr. Talens carefully selects the repair approach that provides the best balance of function and appearance.  The type of repair depends on the size, depth, and location of the area. Here are the most common types of repairs performed:

• Primary closure: The wound edges are brought together with stitches—simple and effective for smaller sites.

• Skin flaps: Nearby skin is gently moved or rotated to cover the wound, helping match color and texture for a natural result.

• Skin grafts: A thin layer of skin is taken from another area and placed over the wound to help it heal.

• Secondary intention healing: In some cases, the wound may be left open to heal naturally on its own. This can be a good option for certain locations, and Dr. Talens will coordinate follow-up and wound care as needed to support the best healing.

Follow-Up After Mohs Repairs

After your Mohs repair, follow-up is an important part of the healing process. Most patients will:

• Return for a wound check and suture removal (usually within 1–2 weeks, depending on the repair).

• Be seen again for a follow-up visit to make sure the site is healing well and the scar is maturing as expected.

• Receive instructions on wound care at home, including how to clean the area, when to change dressings, and what signs of infection or complications to watch for.

• In some cases—such as with larger or more complex wounds—care with local wound care clinics will be coordinated to provide additional support. This ensures that patients get the best possible healing and outcome, no matter the type of repair.

The Recovery

At Integrity Skin & DermCare, we stay involved throughout your recovery, focusing not just on removing cancer and closing the wound, but also on making sure your skin heals properly and you feel supported every step of the way.