Mohs surgery skin graft is black, should I see my surgeon right away? (Photo)

Question

I had surgery 12 days ago, and the dressing came off 5 days ago. After 5 days I'm starting to think that the graft isn't ok. My surgeon told me to come see him in a month after taking the dressing off. Should I wait another 3 weeks or try to see him ASAP. Will a graft like this still heal? Can it be re-opperated on if it is not ok?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Moh’s surgery on the face often requires surgical repair and reconstruction to reapproximate the skin edges. Flaps or direct closure techniques are used. It is important that you optimize scar healing during this phase in order to reduce longterm scars. For red scars, we use Vbeam laser, followed by fractional laser for scar topography and contour. We recommend Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily for the immediate postoperative period. Fractional laser is safe for scar laser therapy. 
There are treatments for swelling and edema of the scars. If there is residual sutures or edema, we advise you to follow a scar treatment protocol that can minimize the time to recovery. Our office specializes in scar revisions for Moh’s surgery. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Genevieve F. Caron, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
Yes you should follow up with your surgeon as soon as possible. From what I can't see in the picture the graft did not take fully, something it is just the superficial portion that will peel off but sometime the necrosis is full thickness and need another graft or flap. 
Best Wishes
Dr Genevieve FCaron, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Montreal.Canada

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