Skin Cancer Surgery

Skin cancer surgery removes cancerous lesions while preserving healthy tissue and restoring appearance and function. At Northwest Ohio Plastic Surgery in Toledo, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Nabeel Khan performs skin cancer surgery and skin cancer reconstruction with a focus on precise removal, thoughtful reconstruction, and natural-looking results.

What Is Skin Cancer Surgery?

Skin cancer surgery involves the precise removal of cancerous tissue, often followed by reconstructive techniques designed to support healing and achieve natural-looking results. Surgery is commonly recommended when a lesion cannot be effectively treated with topical or non-surgical options, or when complete removal is necessary to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Dr. Khan commonly treats:

• Basal cell carcinoma surgery
• Squamous cell carcinoma surgery
• Melanoma surgery

When appropriate, frozen section examination by a board-certified pathologist may be used at the time of removal. This approach allows for margin evaluation while minimizing unne

Where Does Skin Cancer Most Commonly Occur?

Skin cancer most often develops in sun-exposed areas that require careful surgical planning. Dr. Khan frequently treats lesions involving:

• Face
• Nose
• Lips
• Ears
• Scalp
• Trunk and extremities

Reconstruction in these areas focuses on preserving both appearance and function.

Does Skin Cancer Surgery Leave Scars?

Skin cancer surgery does result in scarring, but careful surgical planning and reconstruction can help minimize how noticeable scars become over time. Incisions are placed within natural creases, shadowed areas, and skin tension lines whenever possible to help scars blend more naturally as healing progresses.

Meticulous suturing techniques and personalized postoperative scar care guidance also play an important role in achieving the best long-term appearance.

What Are the Options for Skin Cancer Reconstruction?

Skin cancer reconstruction restores form and function after cancer removal using techniques tailored to the size, location, and depth of the treated area. Dr. Khan may use one or more of the following approaches:

• Local tissue flaps
• Layered closures
• Skin grafts, when appropriate
• Cartilage support for nasal or ear reconstruction
• Combination techniques for complex cases

For facial skin cancer reconstruction, local flaps are often preferred when feasible, as they typically provide a more natural match in color, texture, and contour. In some cases, Dr. Khan works with other specialists who perform Moh surgery, an advanced reconstructive technique.

What Should You Expect Before, During, and After Skin Cancer Surgery?

Before surgery: Your evaluation includes pathology review, surgical planning, and discussion of your aesthetic priorities.

After surgery: Swelling and bruising are common during the first few weeks. You’ll receive detailed guidance on wound care and scar management.

Dr. Khan personally follows all patients during the postoperative period to monitor healing and guide long-term scar remodeling.

Dr. Nabeel Khan

Dr. Nabeel Khan is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with fellowship training in hand surgery. His surgical expertise spans cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the breast, body, and upper extremities. A Toledo native, Dr. Khan is proud to provide personalized, high-quality care to the community he’s always considered home.

Get to Know Dr. Khan

Why Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Skin Cancer Surgery?

A plastic surgeon’s expertise in anatomy, reconstruction, and wound healing plays a critical role in skin cancer care. Dr. Khan brings a patient-focused approach that prioritizes oncologic safety, functional preservation, and aesthetic outcomes while coordinating ongoing skin surveillance with dermatology when needed.

Call our office today at (419) 534-6551 or request a consultation using the online form.