Mohs Surgery

What is Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery, also called Mohs micrographic surgery, is a procedure used to remove cells affected by skin cancer. It’s a great treatment option for people with basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, which are the two most common forms of skin cancer. 

This procedure removes incredibly thin layers of skin at a time. Each time tissue is removed, your provider examines the sample microscopically to search for signs of cancer. The process is repeated until they reach a layer of cancer-free cells.

What are the benefits of Mohs surgery?

The primary benefit of Mohs surgery is the ability to remove all traces of skin cancer without removing a significant amount of healthy tissue. With methods like excision, the cancerous cells are removed along with a sizable portion of the surrounding tissue.

This can leave a clearly visible scar, and in some cases, can create a depression or otherwise change the shape of your face. Mohs surgery ensures that only the cancerous cells are removed, which means less scarring and a more aesthetically appealing outcome. Mohs surgery is especially beneficial for skin cancer on the face.

How long does Mohs surgery take?

Your procedure time depends on the location and size of your skin cancer. The process for Mohs surgery involves shaving off a very thin layer of tissue and checking that tissue for signs of cancer. This requires microscopic examination, which takes time to complete.

You wait in the office while your physician checks the skin sample for any sign of cancer. This can take time, but you’re welcome to read, listen to music, or otherwise relax while you wait.

Your treatment can range from a little over an hour to the entire day. It depends on how long it takes to reach an unaffected layer of skin.

Once this occurs, the area is carefully cleaned and bandaged, and you’re free to head home. Your practitioner discusses how to care for the treatment area as the healing process moves forward.

If you’d like more information about Mohs surgery and to know what to expect, call the office to schedule a visit. You can also try the online scheduling page to find a time that fits your busy life.