Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Suggestions for Detection and Treatment in a Surgical Dermatology Practice

BACKGROUND: Body dysmorphic disorder is a relatively common condition in patients seeking elective surgery. Little has been written, however, in the dermatologic surgery literature about body dysmorphic disorder, where proper recognition and management of this disorder is needed during this time of increased demand for aesthetic dermatologic surgery. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to review the prevalence, demographics, clinical features, treatment approaches, and referral suggestions for patients with body dysmorphic disorder in an attempt to facilitate care of such patients in a general dermatologic surgical practice. METHODS: We reviewed the dermatologic, cosmetic surgical, and psychiatric literature regarding body dysmorphic disorder and related disorders. RESULTS: Body dysmorphic disorder is observed in 6% to 15% of dermatologic and cosmetic surgery patients and in 2% of the general population. Surgical treatment of patients with body dysmorphic disorder typically leads to no change or worsening of symptoms in the majority of patients. The use of screening questionnaires and observation for hallmark features are helpful for clinicians in managing patients with body dysmorphic disorder. Psychiatric referral is desirable, because cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacologic intervention with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are often efficacious. CONCLUSIONS: Body dysmorphic disorder is often underdiagnosed and suboptimal management is common. Effective treatment consists of behavioral and pharmacologic intervention. Use of the Dufresne Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire appears to be useful as a screening tool in an outpatient setting, and awareness of clinical features of body dysmorphic disorder in the dermatologic surgical setting may spare patients significant morbidity while allowing surgical dermatologists to manage their patients and practices more effectively.     

Management of Large Surgical Defects of the Forehead and Scalp by Imbrication of Deep Tissues

BACKGROUND: When facing surgical defects, the dermatologic surgeon follows certain basic principles that help reduce the inherent tension to allow for a better cosmetic outcome. These commonly include the use of undermining, releasing technique such as galeotomy if applicable, selection of suture material of appropriate tensile strength, and closure along relaxed skin tension lines. OBJECTIVE: To review the imbrication of deep tissues, another surgical principle aimed at wound tension reduction and widely utilized by cosmetic surgeons in forehead lifts and scalp reductions, as it applies to dermatologic surgeons in the repair of large surgical defects of the upper face and scalp. The latter may be utilized both with primary closure and with local flaps. METHODS: We describe in detail the technique of imbrication of deep tissues and provide illustrations for a better understanding of how to correctly use this surgical principle. RESULTS: The dermatologic surgeon has an additional tool, termed imbrication of deep tissues, available to aid in the closure of sizable wounds of the forehead and scalp as seen following Mohs surgery for cutaneous malignancies by providing deep tissue support. CONCLUSION: Imbrication of deep tissue is an effective tool that may be used by dermatologic surgeons in conjunction with the more commonly utilized basic surgical principles to enhance the cosmetic outcome in the closure of large, high-tension defects of the forehead and scalp.     

Reduction of Conchal Enlargement and/or Anterolateral Rotation: Otoplasty by the Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgeon

BACKGROUND: Otoplasty is the correction of protuberant ears. One of the most common malformations responsible for prominauris is conchal enlargement and/or anterolateral rotation. The surgical technique we utilize for the correction of this type of auricular malformation is not unlike the removal of auricular skin and cartilage frequently performed by dermatologic surgeons in the treatment of cutaneous malignancies of the ear. OBJECTIVE: To introduce the reduction of conchal enlargement and/or anterolateral rotation for the correction of protuberant ears into the armamentarium of the cosmetic dermatologic surgeon. METHODS: We describe in detail the development and anatomy of the ear along with indications, preoperative considerations, surgical technique, postoperative care, and potential complications for this type of cosmetic surgery. RESULTS: The technique described herein is an effective approach in the surgical management of protuberant ears that are caused by conchal enlargement and/or anterolateral rotation. CONCLUSION: With proper patient selection, thorough knowledge of this step-by-step surgical approach to otoplasty, and some prior surgical experience involving the skin and cartilage of the external ear, the successful correction of protuberant ears is well within the scope of the cosmetic dermatologic surgeon's practice.     

Dermatologic Surgery Practice and Skin Cancer Treatment in Canada: Results of a National Survey

BACKGROUND: Although traditionally considered a medical subspecialty, dermatology has rapidly evolved over the past two decades to encompass a wide variety of cutaneous surgical procedures. OBJECTIVE: The study was carried out to evaluate the status of dermatologic surgery practice and skin cancer treatment in Canada. METHODS: In 2003, 550 practicing Canadian dermatologists were surveyed. RESULTS: Two hundred fifty-one dermatologists responded to the questionnaire, with the majority practicing in an urban part-time academic, part-time private setting. Statistics are presented on the types and demographics of dermatosurgical and cosmetic procedures performed, as well as on the specific dermatosurgical therapies used in the treatment of various cutaneous malignancies. CONCLUSIONS: The survey provides a current picture of dermatologic surgery practice and skin cancer treatment in Canada. The data suggest that Canadian dermatologists are further embracing surgical and cosmetic procedures.     

Electrosurgical Suspension Apparatus

BACKGROUND: Dermatologic surgeons commonly employ electrosurgery. OBJECTIVE: We describe a novel, yet simple, electrosurgical suspension apparatus and variations that facilitate the performance of excision and repair, Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic surgery, and other forms of dermatologic surgery. METHODS: The described techniques result from more than a decade of use and refinements in electrosurgical suspension apparatuses. RESULTS: The use of an electrosurgical suspension device has eliminated electrosurgical needle stick injuries, facilitated surgery, and reduced the risk of surgical field contamination via the electrosurgical handpiece or wiring. CONCLUSION: The use of a suspended electrosurgical handpiece results in reduced surgical time, eliminates many of the inconveniences associated with the current use of electrosurgery, and facilitates the use of electrosurgery as a tool of the dermatologic surgeon.     

Beauty Versus Medicine: The Nonphysician Practice of Dermatologic Surgery

BACKGROUND: This investigation was initiated because of a growing concern by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery about the proliferation of nonphysicians practicing medicine and its impact on public health, safety, and welfare. OBJECTIVE: Prompted by an alarming rise in anecdotal reports among dermatologic surgeons, the study sought to determine whether there was a significant increase in the number of patients seeking corrective treatment due to complications from laser and light-based hair removal, subsurface laser/light rejuvenation techniques, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, injectables, and other cosmetic medical/surgical procedures performed by nonphysicians without adequate training or supervision. METHODS: A survey of 2,400 American Society for Dermatologic Surgery members in July 2001 and in-depth phone interviews with eight patients who experienced complications from nonphysicians performing cosmetic dermatologic surgery procedures were conducted. RESULTS: Survey data and qualitative research results attributed patient complications primarily to "nonphysician operators" such as cosmetic technicians, estheticians, and employees of medical/dental professionals who performed various invasive medical procedures outside of their scope of training or with inadequate or no physician supervision. CONCLUSION: The results underscore the need for improved awareness, legislation, and enforcement regarding the nonphysician practice of medicine, along with further study of this issue.     

Perioperative Management of von Willebrand Disease in Dermatologic Surgery

BACKGROUND: Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder, affecting an estimated 0.1% to 1% of the population. It is caused by a qualitative or quantitative defect of von Willebrand factor. Primary manifestations include intractable mucocutaneous bleeding after surgery or trauma. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to review the pathophysiology and clinical features of VWD and to propose a perioperative management strategy for patients with this condition undergoing dermatologic surgery. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Literature is reviewed. RESULTS: The various types and clinical manifestations of this condition are reviewed, and a perioperative strategy is presented for managing patients with VWD who undergo cutaneous oncologic or cosmetic surgical procedures. CONCLUSIONS: In most cases, dermatologic surgery can be safely performed in patients with VWD. The use of appropriate therapeutic prophylaxis in conjunction with a hematologist is indicated in high-risk, nonelective procedures.     

Glove Perforation in Outpatient Dermatologic Surgery

BACKGROUND: Intact surgical gloves ensure protection of health-care employees and health-care recipients. Nevertheless, glove perforation is very common and puncture rates above 50% have been published in the literature. OBJECTIVE: It was our aim to evaluate the perforation rate of surgical gloves in outpatient dermatologic surgery. METHODS: Six-hundred and sixty latex surgical gloves used in outpatient dermatologic surgery were evaluated for perforations using the approved water-leak method. Perforations were analyzed microscopically. RESULTS: Twenty of the 660 gloves were found to have perforations, which corresponds to a perforation rate of 3.0%. Only 5 of these perforations (25%) were noticed by the wearer. Perforations were more numerous in nondominant-handed gloves. Microscopically, all perforations could be identified as needle stick injuries. CONCLUSION: The risk of glove perforation in outpatient dermatologic surgery is lower than in many other medical specialties. The relatively high number of surgical procedures performed successively in outpatient dermatologic surgery, however, emphasizes the decisive relevance of an intact barrier between surgeon and patient. In view of the major fact that most perforations go unnoticed by the wearer, dermatologic surgeons must balance the improved safety of double gloving with costs and the loss of sensitivity and dexterity.     

The Impact of Herbal Medicines on Dermatologic Surgery

BACKGROUND: In recent years herbal medicines and supplements have become increasingly popular. With their increased popularity, more publications are warning about the potential harmful effects of some of these products. OBJECTIVE: To present scientific evidence of the benefits and surgical risks of herbal products. METHODS: A Medline search and review of the literature was performed. RESULTS: Many herbal medicines are relevant in dermatologic surgery since Ginkgo biloba, garlic, ginger, ginseng, feverfew, and vitamin E may increase the risk of bleeding, and ephedra may potentiate the side effects of epinephrine. CONCLUSION: Dermatologists should be aware of these herbal products and their uses. Many of these products prescribed by alternative medicine physicians or purchased over the counter should be discontinued prior to dermatologic surgery to minimize the risk of surgical complications.     

Ethics of innovative surgery: US surgeons' definitions, knowledge, and attitudes

BACKGROUND: Innovative surgery is not clearly defined, nor is it formally regulated by governing bodies as is the development of drugs and medical devices. This unclear status and the subsequent questionable applicability of existing federal guidelines for human subject research pose an ethical concern. To clarify its position, we solicited US surgeons' definitions of, opinions toward, and attitudes about innovative surgery. Surgeons were also invited to self-report knowledge about current federal regulations guiding human subject research and rules for informed consent for and IRB review of clinical research. STUDY DESIGN: A group of US surgeons received a 46-item questionnaire addressing the definition of innovative surgery versus those for research and practice, regulations for human subject research, need for specific informed consent, and IRB review of surgical innovations. RESULTS: A total of 665 responses were used in the content analysis. Respondents expressed a fairly prudent stance when judging hypothetical innovative scenarios. Hallmarks for experimentation and clinical research as modes of innovation were defined more clearly for the surgical situation. CONCLUSIONS: Defining criteria exist that prompt added scrutiny and previous review of surgical innovations. Some forms of innovation clearly fall under the current regulations for human subject research; others might not fully meet the definition but could still require some additional oversight.     

A History of Dermatologic Surgery in the United States

Background. Dermatologic surgery has a long and distinguished history in the United States.
Objective. To examine the specific contributions of American dermatologic surgeons.
Method. The medical literature on cutaneous reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for the last century and a half was researched.
Results. Numerous American dermatologic surgeons have had a major impact on scientific and technological discoveries in cutaneous surgery. Dermatologic surgeons have been significantly involved in cutaneous surgery since the second half of the 19th century. Dermatologic surgeons have contributed many important advances to the fields of chemical peeling, cryosurgery, dermabrasion, electrosurgery, hair transplantation, soft tissue augmentation, tumescent liposuction, laser surgery, phlebology, Mohs chemosurgery, cutaneous reconstruction, wound healing, botulium toxin, blepharoplasty, and rhytidectomy.
Conclusion. Dermatologic surgeons in the United States have contributed significantly to the history of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Dermatologic surgeons have been leaders in advancing this field and are poised to continue in the future.     

Elder Care and the Dermatologic Surgeon

BACKGROUND: The elderly are an increasing percentage of the population and dermatologic surgeons will be caring for more senior citizens. OBJECTIVE: Understanding issues in geriatric care will help both surgeons and patients have productive and rewarding encounters. METHODS: Approaches to the care of elders are detailed in this article. Surgical tips for the senior patient are prescribed. RESULTS: Older patients need more time and may need special assistance. Multiplicity of disease increases with age. A third-party interview can be helpful in gathering information. The elderly have sensory loss and benefit from extra attention, follow-up telephone calls, and therapeutic touch. Written handouts and instructions printed in large type are excellent. Dermatologic care should be kept as simple as possible with surgical closures designed to require minimal attention. Be cognizant of the social services available for the elderly and watch for dermatologic signs of internal disease. A skin care program for the elderly is helpful and cosmetic procedures are of interest to seniors. CONCLUSIONS: Dermatologic surgeons can provide excellent care to elders. An understanding of gerontologic issues and surgical tips can help the dermatologic surgeon care for the older patient.     

Ethical regulations for innovative surgery: the last frontier?

Background:

There are no clear federal regulations governing innovative surgery, even though general guidelines regulating research with human subjects do exist. We hypothesized that US surgeons are unaware of Department of Health and Human Services regulations, rarely seek IRB review, generally oppose outside regulation of innovative surgery, and are uncertain what constitutes innovation and research. These circumstances, if true, would pose a significant ethical problem and present potential harm to patients as unwitting subjects of research.

Study Design:

In a pilot study we reviewed 527 issues of US surgical and medical journals, selecting 59 articles published between 1992 and 2000, that described innovative surgery. Corresponding authors from university hospitals (71%) and other facilities (29%) were sent an anonymous questionnaire.

Results:

The survey was conducted between November 2000 and May 2001. Twenty-one questionnaires were returned, completed with responses, constituting a 35% overall response rate. Fourteen authors confirmed their work was research, yet only six had sought prior IRB review. The majority of authors (15 of 21) did not submit their protocol to IRB. Only seven authors had mentioned the innovative nature of the procedure in the informed consent form. Seven authors claimed familiarity with Office for Human Research Protections definitions of research and human subject. Two-thirds of the respondents stated that government regulations for the protection of human subjects of innovative surgery would not be appropriate.

Conclusions:

The current system of definitions, ethical theories, and voluntary professional guidelines may be inadequate to meet the challenge of surgical innovation. Further research is proposed to examine the adequacy of the existing guidelines.     

Pemphigus Foliaceus Masquerading as Postoperative Wound Infection: Report of a Case and Review of the Koebner and Related Phenomenon following Surgical Procedures

BACKGROUND: The Koebner phenomenon, also known as the isomorphic response, is the development of preexisting skin disease following trauma to uninvolved skin. Various cutaneous disorders have been described to arise at surgical wounds and scars. Moreover, dermatologic procedures, such as cold-steel and laser surgery, can evoke koebnerization. OBJECTIVE: To describe a case of pemphigus foliaceus arising in postoperative wounds and to present a review of dermatologic disorders triggered by surgical procedures. METHODS: We report a case of pemphigus foliaceus initially presenting at sites of Mohs' micrographic surgery, shave biopsy, and cryotherapy and, subsequently, at a nonsurgical site. We reviewed the English literature in MEDLINE from November 1955 to April 2004 for reports of Koebner and related phenomenon following surgical procedures. RESULTS: To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of pemphigus foliaceus erupting at surgical and cryotherapy wounds. The clinical appearance can mimic wound infection. In addition to inducing preexisting disease, cutaneous procedures can also trigger the onset of new disease, which can either be limited only to the surgical site or subsequently become generalized. CONCLUSION: Postoperative Koebner or related responses should be included in the differential diagnosis of poorly healing surgical wounds. Skin biopsies for histopathology and immunologic studies may be necessary for definitive diagnosis and optimal management.     

Scalp Micropigmentation: A Concealer for Hair and Scalp Deformities

Background: Cosmetic deformities, resulting from some dermatologic diseases or deformities caused by hair restoration surgeries, have had few, if any, good, permanent solutions. Most of these patients have learned to live with their problems. Objective: A cosmetic tattoo technique has been developed to address unsightly scalp and hair conditions. Materials and Methods: The technique called scalp micropigmentation uses specialized techniques and conventional cosmetic tattoo instruments and pigments in a stippling pattern on the scalp. Results: A variety of alopecias, refractory to treatment and hair transplant deformities, impact millions of men and women. Many of these deformities can be concealed with scalp micropigmentation, making the deformities minimally detectable. Included are the results of treatment. Patient satisfaction is very high. Conclusion: Scalp micropigmentation offers a good nonsurgical alternative treatment for hair and scalp deformities. This paper demonstrates scalp micropigmentation results and discusses the histology, physiology, and pathology of tattoo pigments in the skin. The regulation of the tattoo process by the United States Food and Drug Administration and state governments is summarized. Unlike medical devices, scalp micropigmentation offers a tattoo-based, non-medical “cover-up” that effectively hides unsightly conditions on the scalp and creates the illusion of thicker hair. The authors believe that scalp micropigmentation is destined to become a standardized offering for physicians specializing in cosmetic office procedures.There are millions of men and women who have cosmetic problems with their scalps and hair resulting from dermatologic and/or genetic conditions, such as intractable alopecia areata or female genetic balding. There are also iatrogenic deformities in millions of men from hair restoration procedures done between the 1950s and 1990s, reflecting crude techniques of that period and scars from strip harvesting. Since hair loss is frequently a progressive process, genetic and iatrogenic conditions often become more pronounced over time. Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) uses a tattoo in a stippling pattern that mimics hair follicles that are cut close to the scalp.1,2 This relatively new technique can significantly address the cosmetic problems derived from the conditions noted above.The tattoo industry is in the midst of a cultural expansion, growing from 14 percent in 2008 to 21 percent in 2012,3 making SMP a more socially acceptable cosmetic solution for covering appropriate scalp and hair problems.This article discusses how the SMP process is used, demonstrates a variety of clinical applications, identifies challenges created by the technique, discusses the anatomy and histology of the tattoo pigment interactions with human physiology, and identifies some of the safety issues known today. The authors will show how SMP will have a great impact on people who, heretofore, have had no acceptable long-term solutions for hiding deformities created by a broad variety of diseases and traumas.     

Current Issues in Dermatologic Office-Based Surgery

Dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons have played major roles in the development and refinement of many office-based cutaneous surgical procedures. The comprehensive scientific education in the structure and function of skin that dermatologists receive during formal residency training programs has contributed directly to these advances. This long tradition of comprehensive training and strong basic research activities in skin biology has supported a scholarly approach to cutaneous surgery. As a result, many pioneering cutaneous surgical techniques have been created by dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons. One example of this creativity can be seen in the field of laser surgery where techniques to effectively treat tattoos, benign pigmented lesions, port-wine stains and other vascular conditions, premalignant and malignant skin lesions, wrinkles and sun-damaged skin, and excess or unwanted hair were developed by dermatologists. Some of the most innovative procedures, like tumescent liposuction, have focused primarily on improving patient safety while preserving the highest standards of care. Virtually every aspect of cutaneous surgery, including Mohs micrographic surgery for the treatment of skin cancers, hair replacement surgery, sclerotherapy of leg veins, the correction of scars and sun-damaged skin with the injection of filler materials, dermabrasion or chemical peels, and new anesthesia techniques, have been favorably impacted by the unique education and skills of many dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons. This article reviews the important historic role that has been played by dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons in developing and improving outpatient cutaneous surgical procedures and examines current issues and future directions in credentialing, privileging, and accreditation.     

Surgical Rosacea

BACKGROUND: Rosacea is a common cutaneous disease. The dermatologic surgeon will frequently encounter rosacea in the surgical patient. OBJECTIVE: To describe observations regarding surgical and wound care techniques that facilitate and improve outcomes in the rosacea patient. METHODS: We present a compilation of our clinical experience and observations regarding rosacea in the dermatologic surgery. CONCLUSION: Simple interventions such as disease recognition and treatment, proper wound care and suture selection, as well as patient counseling have proven beneficial in optimizing surgical outcomes in the rosacea patient.     

The art of blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is one of the most popular and common procedures in facial plastic surgery. Initially performed in 1818 for eyelid reconstruction, blepharoplasty has evolved to become a cosmetic or functional operation. Although the surgical approaches are relatively straightforward, achieving natural and predictable results require precision and judgment. After performing more than 3500 blepharoplasties, the senior author has learned that the "art of blepharoplasty" has less to do with how much skin or fat is removed and is more about understanding the anatomic changes associated with aging, developing an individualized surgical plan, and anticipating postoperative outcomes or complications.     

Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Dermatologic Surgery: Updated Guidelines

BACKGROUND: Antibiotic prophylaxis in dermatologic surgery is poorly understood, and data on its use are lacking. Prophylaxis is indicated for the prevention of endocarditis and prosthesis infection, as well as surgical site infection. OBJECTIVE: We review essential considerations for the use of antibiotic prophylaxis in dermatologic surgery and provide clear guidelines for practical implementation. METHODS: Guidelines were developed after review of the literature and consultation with infectious disease specialists and subspecialists in the areas of cardiac, orthopedic, and neurosurgical infectious disease at Mayo Clinic. RESULTS: Three factors affect the decision to use prophylactic antibiotics in dermatologic surgery: (1) the underlying indication for prophylaxis (patient risk stratification), (2) the condition of the skin, and (3) the specific procedure planned. Thorough preoperative evaluation and surgical planning are critical in identifying and optimizing patient and environmental risk factors that may increase the risk of infection. Appropriate antibiotic selections with site-specific consideration and appropriate timing of antibiotic administration are key factors in providing effective prophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS: Low rates of infection associated with dermatologic surgical procedures warrant selective use of antibiotic prophylaxis. The proposed guidelines reflect current standards of practice.     

Fast Absorbing Gut Suture versus Cyanoacrylate Tissue Adhesive in the Epidermal Closure of Linear Repairs Following Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Background: Cyanoacrylate topical adhesives and fast absorbing gut sutures are increasingly utilized by dermatologic surgeons as they provide satisfactory surgical outcomes while eliminating an additional patient visit for suture removal. To date, no head-to-head studies have compared the wound healing characteristics of these epidermal closure techniques in the repair of facial wounds after Mohs micrographic surgery. Objective: To compare the cosmetic outcome of epidermal closure by cyanoacrylate topical adhesive with fast absorbing gut suture in linear repairs of the face following Mohs micrographic surgery. Methods: Fourteen patients with wound length greater than 3cm who underwent Mohs micrographic surgery for nonmelanoma skin cancer of the face were enrolled in this randomized right-left comparative study. Following placement of dermal sutures, half of the wound was randomly selected for closure with cyanoacrylate and the contralateral side with fast absorbing gut suture. Using photographs from the three-month postoperative visit, six blinded individuals rated the overall cosmetic outcome. Results: The present study shows no significant difference in cosmetic outcomes between cyanoacrylate and fast absorbing gut suture for closure of linear facial wounds resulting from Mohs micrographic surgery. Cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive may not be as effective in achieving optimal cosmesis for wounds on the forehead or of longer repair lengths. The majority of patients did not have a preference for wound closure techniques, but when a preference was given, cyanoacrylate was significantly favored over sutures. Conclusion: Cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive and fast absorbing gut suture both result in comparable aesthetic outcomes for epidermal closure of linear facial wounds following Mohs micrographic surgery. Consideration should be given to factors such as need for eversion, hemostasis, and wound tension when selecting an epidermal wound closure method. (ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: {"type":"clinical-trial","attrs":{"text":"NCT01298167","term_id":"NCT01298167"}}NCT01298167, http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/{"type":"clinical-trial","attrs":{"text":"NCT01298167","term_id":"NCT01298167"}}NCT01298167).Tissue adhesives have been used in surgical procedures for more than 50 years since cyanoacrylate was first discovered in 1949.1 These adhesives work by self-polymerizing in a spontaneous exothermic reaction. The first widely used variety, N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate, has been used with good cosmetic outcomes for a number of surgical procedures (blepharoplasty, lacerations, incisions).2-5 However, this adhesive did not gain widespread use because of its low tensile strength and brittleness.6 In 1998, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved 2-octyl cyanoacrylate for superficial skin lacerations. This cyanoacrylate polymer was designed to be stronger and more flexible and has been used successfully in many studies.7,8Fast absorbing gut is a plain gut suture that has been heat treated to enable rapid absorption. It is primarily used for epidermal suturing, where sutures are only required for five to seven days.9Both cyanoacrylate and fast absorbing gut suture eliminate the need for an office visit for suture removal, which can represent a significant cost savings in patient and staff time as well as related healthcare resources. Both cyanoacrylate and fast absorbing gut suture are currently routinely used for epidermal closure following Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Physician preference currently dictates which epidermal closure method is chosen for a given surgery and depends on weighing advantages and disadvantages of each technique.Recently, one study reported that for defects on the trunk and extremities, tissue adhesive may not be as effective in achieving optimal cosmesis as fast absorbing gut.10 The purpose of this study was to compare the cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction of cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive versus fast absorbing gut suture for the closure of surgical defects on the face following MMS.