Primary Excision and Surgical Reconstruction in Non-Melanoma Skin Neoplasms

This chapter discusses surgical treatment options of non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) and reconstructive methods available in the plastic surgery field to restore the function and esthetic appearance of the different anatomical sites. A precise diagnostic assessment of NMSC and a careful clinical evaluation are essential steps before surgery. This process often guarantees a complete tumor eradication with maximal preservation of normal function and cosmesis avoiding the need for further surgical treatments or adjuvant therapies. After tumor extirpation, it is advisable to suture the wound margins directly together whenever possible. Anyway, cases of complex, large, and deep defects, or the involvement of particular anatomical sites, such as facial units, may require specific reconstructive techniques. This chapter deals with the basic reconstruction techniques of soft tissues using grafts, flaps and Z-plasty, and pearls and pitfalls in facial reconstruction.