Mohs Surgery

The Effectiveness of Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer Treatment

Mohs surgery stands as the gold standard for treating the two most common types of skin cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. This highly specialized procedure is performed under local anesthesia and involves the precise, layer-by-layer removal of cancerous tissue. What sets Mohs surgery apart is its methodical approach; after each layer of tissue is removed, it is immediately examined under a microscope in real time. This meticulous process continues until only healthy, cancer-free tissue remains, ensuring that all cancerous cells have been effectively eradicated.

Why Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer Treatment?

The effectiveness of Mohs surgery is unparalleled in the field of dermatologic oncology, with cure rates approaching 99 percent. This exceptional success is largely due to the procedure’s precision in targeting and removing all cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Unlike other treatments, which may rely on visual estimates of tumor margins, Mohs surgery provides a microscopic examination of the entire surgical margin, significantly reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

This high level of accuracy and thoroughness means that Mohs surgery not only offers the highest cure rates but also minimizes the need for additional treatments. Patients who undergo Mohs surgery benefit from the peace of mind that comes with knowing they have chosen a treatment with the best possible outcome for eradicating skin cancer.

Mohs surgery is the most precise method for removing skin cancer, providing patients with confidence in both the effectiveness of the treatment and the preservation of healthy tissue. Performed by specially trained dermatologic surgeons, this technique carefully removes cancer layer by layer while examining each section under a microscope, ensuring thorough treatment and optimal outcomes.

Key benefits of Mohs surgery include:

• Maximized tissue preservation – Healthy skin is spared, reducing scarring and maintaining natural appearance.
• Targeted cancer removal – Every layer is examined to ensure the entire tumor is removed.
• Effective for high-risk areas – Ideal for delicate regions like the face, ears, and hands.
• Lower recurrence rates – Reduces the chance of skin cancer returning compared to other methods.
• Customized reconstructive options – Surgeons can repair the site immediately, improving cosmetic and functional results.

At Skin Surgery Center, our Mohs surgeons are board-certified and specialize exclusively in Mohs surgery and related dermatological procedures. This focused practice allows them to refine their skills and stay updated on the latest advancements in the field.

Our patient promise is dedicated to your care. Our Mohs surgeons undergo extensive training beyond medical school and residency to ensure you receive comprehensive skin cancer care.

During Mohs surgery, your procedure combines precise surgical removal with real-time microscopic analysis. The goal is to remove all cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.

Here’s what typically happens:

• The visible tumor is carefully removed.
• Your surgeon creates a detailed “map” of the excised tissue to track any remaining cancer cells.
• Each layer of tissue is examined under a microscope.
• If cancer cells are detected, another thin layer is removed only from the affected area, then re-examined.
• This process repeats layer by layer until the tumor is eliminated.

By systematically removing only diseased tissue, Mohs surgery maximizes the chance of complete cancer removal while minimizing impact on surrounding healthy skin. Patients benefit from precision, safety, and the best possible cosmetic and functional outcomes.

To help ensure a smooth Mohs surgery experience, shower and wash your hair on the day of your procedure and eat your usual breakfast unless instructed otherwise. Bring a list of medications and be ready to complete a brief medical history form.

Upon arrival, complete a medical history form, bringing a list of medications. Discontinue Erectile Dysfunction medication 72 hours before surgery. Avoid alcohol for 48 hours before surgery and follow your provider’s guidance on medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or certain supplements. Skip makeup, perfume, nail polish, and jewelry, and arrange transportation if a sedative will be used. Your Mohs surgeon will provide personalized instructions to ensure you are fully prepared.

After Mohs surgery, plan for a smooth recovery by arranging transportation home, as you may feel groggy from anesthesia. Take it easy for a day or two, avoiding strenuous activity, and follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions carefully, including keeping the wound clean and dry. Most patients only need a single follow-up visit to examine the surgical site or remove dressings.

Ongoing skin health is important after treatment. Patients who have had skin cancer are at higher risk of developing it again, so lifetime annual skin exams and dermatological checkups are recommended. Your dermatologist will monitor both the treated area and your overall skin to catch any new cancers early.