Local Anesthesia
The treatment area is numbed so the procedure can be performed comfortably in an outpatient setting.
Surgical Dermatology
Mohs Surgery
The gold standard for precise skin cancer treatment, tissue preservation, and exceptional cure rates.
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Advanced Skin Cancer Treatment
Mohs surgery is the leading treatment for squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma and may also be used for early-stage melanoma.
Performed under local anesthesia, Mohs surgery removes cancerous skin carefully, one layer at a time. Each layer is examined microscopically in real time to confirm that cancer cells have been completely removed while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
At Skin Dermatology and Cosmetic Services, our Mohs surgeons are specially trained in cancer surgery, pathology, and reconstructive techniques. This comprehensive expertise supports successful cancer removal while prioritizing cosmetic and functional outcomes.
By choosing Mohs surgery, patients benefit from a precise treatment approach focused on complete cancer eradication, minimized scarring, and preservation of the surrounding skin.
Precision With Purpose
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The Mohs approach examines the complete surgical margin during the procedure, helping the surgeon remove cancer down to its roots without unnecessarily removing healthy tissue.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
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Layer-by-Layer Accuracy
This cutting-edge procedure combines the roles of surgeon, pathologist, and reconstructive specialist in one carefully controlled treatment process.
Precise Removal
The visible cancer and a very thin layer of surrounding tissue are carefully removed.
Microscopic Review
The tissue is mapped, processed, and examined under a microscope to locate any remaining cancer cells.
Targeted Completion
Additional tissue is removed only where cancer remains, preserving the maximum amount of healthy skin.
Benefits of Mohs Surgery
Exceptional Cure Rates. Minimal Tissue Removal.
Up to 99%
Reported Success Rate
Same Day
Outpatient Procedure
Mohs surgery has the highest cure rate among skin cancer treatments, including cancers that have been treated previously. Its microscopic precision allows the surgeon to identify cancer cells that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
By removing only the tissue that contains cancer, the procedure reduces the likelihood of recurrence while minimizing scarring and the risk of disfigurement. This is especially important when treating cancers in visible or functionally sensitive areas.
Preserves Healthy Skin
Mapping and microscopic examination help minimize the removal of normal tissue.
Reduces Recurrence
Complete margin examination improves confidence that the cancer has been fully removed.
What to Expect
Care Before, During & After Treatment
Mohs surgery is generally performed in a comfortable outpatient setting, allowing most patients to return home the same day. The surgical removal itself may take approximately 10 to 15 minutes per stage, while tissue processing and microscopic examination can require additional time between stages.
Most cancers are removed in three stages or fewer. Because the number of stages cannot be predicted in advance, patients should plan for a longer visit and bring reading material or a sweater for comfort.
After the cancer has been removed, the wound may heal naturally, be closed with stitches, or require reconstruction with a skin graft, depending on the location and the best cosmetic outcome.
Ongoing Skin Surveillance
After treatment, routine dermatology follow-ups remain important because a history of one skin cancer increases the likelihood of developing another.
Expert Mohs Care
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Take the Next Step Toward Cancer-Free Skin
Frequently Asked Questions
Mohs Surgery FAQs
Advantages of Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery uses meticulous mapping and microscopic precision to identify cancer cells that may be invisible to the naked eye. Its key advantages include:
- Minimal removal of healthy skin: The technique preserves as much normal tissue as possible.
- High cure rates: Mohs surgery offers the highest likelihood of completely eradicating skin cancer.
Will I Need to Stay in the Hospital for Mohs Surgery?
No. Mohs surgery is performed in a comfortable outpatient setting, allowing you to return home on the same day. Hospitalization is available if needed but is typically not required.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Mohs Surgery
Your appointment will usually be scheduled early in the day. The area is numbed, the visible cancer and a thin surrounding layer are removed, and the tissue is mapped and examined immediately in an adjacent laboratory.
- Procedure duration: Surgical removal may take approximately 10 to 15 minutes per stage, while tissue processing and examination may take 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Waiting between stages: Additional tissue is removed only if microscopic examination shows remaining cancer cells. Most cancers are removed in three stages or fewer.
- Comfort: Consider bringing reading material or a sweater. Magazines and beverages may be available in the reception area.
Will There Be Scarring After Mohs Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, Mohs surgery leaves a scar. Because the technique removes minimal normal tissue, scarring is generally reduced. The wound may heal naturally, be stitched, or be reconstructed with a skin graft depending on what provides the best cosmetic result.
What to Expect After Your Mohs Procedure
Typically, only one follow-up visit is needed to check the healing site or remove dressings. Routine skin checks with your dermatologist remain essential because having one skin cancer increases the likelihood of developing another.
How Can I Reduce the Risk of Future Skin Cancers?
Limiting exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays is one of the best ways to reduce future risk. Helpful precautions include:
- Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever you are outdoors.
- Limit peak sun exposure: Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Protect yourself on cloudy days: UV rays can penetrate clouds, so sun protection is important regardless of weather.