Mohs Surgery
The gold standard in skin cancer treatment — removing tumors in stages with microscopic precision.
About Mohs Surgery
Mohs micrographic surgery involves removing skin cancer tumors in stages or layers. Each layer is mapped and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. The procedure is repeated until no more cancer cells are seen. The result is the preservation of as much healthy skin as possible and a hidden scar.
Mohs surgery requires specialized training. It is recommended when wide local excision can cause disfiguration, when tumors are on certain locations such as the face, eyes, lips, nose, and genitals, and when it is difficult to determine the extent of the cancer.
During the procedure, patients are awake and alert as it is performed under local anesthesia in our medical office. Once the skin cancer is cured, the Mohs surgeon will repair the open area taking into consideration what will provide the best cosmetic outcome.
FAQ
Common Questions
What happens during Mohs surgery?
An anesthetic is injected to minimize pain. The skin cancer is surgically removed via an intricate technique to provide tissue sparing while removing the visible tumor. While the surgical layer is being processed in the lab, a bandage is placed over the area. The Mohs surgeon examines the removed skin under the microscope, and if remaining cancer cells are found, another layer is removed. This process repeats until no cancer cells remain.
When is Mohs surgery recommended?
Mohs surgery is recommended when wide local excision can cause disfigurement or loss of function, when tumors are on sensitive locations like the face, eyes, lips, nose, and genitals, and when it is difficult to determine the extent of the cancer. It is the gold standard for treating high-risk basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.
What is the recovery like?
The team providing care will ensure all wound care instructions are discussed in detail with scheduled follow up care for optimal outcomes. Once the skin cancer is cured, the surgeon repairs the open area considering what will provide the best cosmetic outcome.
Expert Skin Cancer Surgery
Schedule a Mohs surgery consultation with our board-certified team.
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Other Medical Dermatology Services
Acne
Treatment is aimed at decreasing inflammation and bacteria.
Melasma
Treatment involves prevention through sun protection.
Cysts
Can be treated with drainage, injections, or simple excisions.
Moles
Mole evaluation and treatment targeted to your needs.
Seborrheic Keratosis
Cryotherapy and other modalities are used to address concerns.
Eczema
Calm skin, control itching, and prevent infection.
Psoriasis
Topical therapies, phototherapy, and systemic therapy.
Skin Cancer
Treatments vary based on examination and diagnosis.
Excessive Sweating
Options include topical or oral prescriptions, Qbrexza, or Botox.
Rosacea
Topical and oral medications and laser treatments.
Hyperpigmentation
A variety of topical treatments and medications are offered.
Skin Growths
Various treatments target the type of growth and your needs.