The Art of Fine-Tuned Eyelid Repair MOHS MAGIC
If you’ve read the patient stories we regularly share in this newsletter, you may have noticed several that mention eyelid reconstruction after Mohs surgery. It’s something I’m often asked about, so this month I thought I’d take a moment to explain what Mohs surgery is and what happens afterward when the eyelid is involved. Mohs surgery was developed by Frederic E. Mohs and is performed by specially trained dermatologists to treat certain types of skin cancer. During the procedure, the dermatologist carefully removes the visible cancer and creates a detailed “map” of the area. Every thin layer of tissue is examined under a microscope to identify exactly where cancer cells remain. If any areas are still positive, the dermatologist returns to those specific spots and removes another very thin layer. This step-by-step process continues until all of the cancer has been removed, while conserving as much healthy surrounding tissue as possible.
When skin cancer affects the eyelid, reconstruction is often needed once the cancer has been fully removed. In most cases, I see patients the same day as their Mohs procedure, typically at Fair Oaks Hospital. My role is to repair the eyelid in a way that restores both its appearance and its function over the long term, using the least aggressive approach that’s appropriate for each individual situation. The eyelid plays an essential role in protecting the eye and keeping it comfortable and well lubricated, so precision matters. During reconstruction, anesthesia is administered in a way that preserves the eyelid’s natural position and flexibility without distorting its shape. The anesthetic also contains epinephrine, which helps minimize bleeding. Depending on the size and location of the area left by Mohs surgery, reconstruction may involve gently bringing tissue together or repositioning nearby skin and muscle to safely close the area. Patients are comfortably asleep for the duration of the procedure.
After eyelid reconstruction, patients typically wear a protective eye patch for about 4–5 days. Bruising and swelling are common at first, but usually improve over the next few weeks. Over time, any surgical scarring often becomes quite subtle. Follow-up visits are important, not only to make sure healing is progressing well, but also to monitor for any signs of new or recurrent skin cancer. When caught early, many new lesions can be treated without the need for additional Mohs surgery or reconstruction. If you have questions about eyelid reconstruction, Mohs surgery, or what the process might look like for you, our team is always happy to help. We’re here to guide you through each step with care, clarity, and a focus on long-term eye health.
Jalapeño Popper Soup
INGREDIENTS •
Place a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, then remove to a plate. Add jalapeños and onion to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth, cumin, salt, and potatoes, and simmer for 20 minutes. 4 bacon slices, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces 5–6 large jalapeño peppers, minced with stems and seeds removed 1/2 small onion, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1/2 tsp cumin 1 1/2 tsp salt
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1 lb gold potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-size pieces 8 oz full-fat cream cheese
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1 cup shredded fresh cheddar cheese 2 tbsp lemon juice
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DIRECTIONS 1.
5. Place cream cheese in a
mixing bowl and add 1 ladle of hot broth before mixing. Add cream cheese mixture to the pot and stir. Remove from heat and add cheddar cheese and lemon juice, stirring until the cheese melts. Pour into serving bowls, topping with bacon and more shredded cheese.
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“Chocolate is superior to coffee and tea for health.” - Thomas Jefferson
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