What is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized form of skin cancer treatment that removes the visible tumor while sparing the healthy tissue. It is considered the gold standard for treating certain types of skin cancer and delivers the highest cure rate compared to other surgical treatment options. This procedure aims to minimize the loss of healthy tissue while maximizing the cosmetic and functional outcome of the surgery.
At Academic Alliance in Dermatology, our Mohs micrographic surgeons are highly trained and experienced in the latest Mohs techniques. We are dedicated to providing premier cosmetic and general dermatology care to our patients in a warm and comfortable environment. Through education, expert skin care, and customized treatment plans, we are able to provide each patient with the individualized attention they deserve.
Who is a Candidate for Mohs Surgery?
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, the providers at Academic Alliance in Dermatology will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is best for you. In most cases, Mohs surgery is recommended for the following types of skin cancer:
Basal and squamous cell carcinoma- Recurrent skin cancer
- Skin cancer that has grows and spreads rapidly
- Skin cancer in functionally sensitive areas
FAQs
How to prepare for Mohs surgery?
Before your Mohs surgery, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss the procedure in detail. Your surgeon will explain what to expect before, during, and after the surgery. It is essential to ask any questions you may have so you are fully informed and comfortable with the procedure.
The following are some tips to help you prepare for your Mohs surgery:
- If your skin cancer involves the facial area, you may want to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery in case your vision is impaired due to bandaging
- Unless your surgeon instructs otherwise, shower and wash the surgery site before your procedure
- Do not wear makeup, lotion, or perfume on the day of the surgery
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing that can easily be removed
- Get a good night’s sleep before your procedure
- Eat a healthy meal before surgery unless your surgeon instructs you otherwise
- If you smoke, try to cut down or quit at least two weeks before surgery, as smoking may delay healing
In addition to these tips, you may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners or aspirin. Be sure to tell your surgeon about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines. It is important to follow any pre-operative instructions your surgeon gives you. This will help ensure a successful surgery and optimal outcome.
How long does Mohs surgery take?
Although Mohs surgery can take longer than other techniques to perform, advances in technology, such as automated staining of tissue samples, have made it quicker. While it is impossible to predict exactly what timeframe to expect for each Mohs surgery procedure, the entire procedure usually lasts several hours. Rarely, clearing the tumor and reconstructing the defect can take the better part of a day. A consultation with the Mohs surgeon prior to your procedure will allow for the surgeon to understand the unique qualities of your situation and enable him/her to more clearly estimate the extent of the timeframe for the surgery.
What are the results after surgery?
If your surgeon leaves the wound open to heal naturally, you may see a hole when you remove your bandage. We understand this can be frightening if you are not expecting it. However, in almost all cases, the skin heals nicely with a barely noticeable scar.
The cure rate for Mohs surgery is over 99%. In previously treated cancers in which the tumor is recurrent, Mohs surgery is 95% effective.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery Process
Mohs surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means you will be able to go home the same day. However, expect to spend roughly four hours at the surgery center.
Your Mohs surgeon will examine the skin cancer to determine what tissue needs removal. Local anesthesia is then administered.
The surgeon removes visible cancerous tissue in thin layers. A surgical site map is drawn to track where each tissue portion originated.
Each layer is carefully examined under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells.
If cancer cells are found, the surgeon marks their location and removes another tissue layer from that exact spot. This spares healthy tissue.
The process ends when no cancer is seen microscopically. The surgeon may bandage a small wound to heal or stitch it if the wound is larger.
Visit Academic Alliance in Dermatology
Our team provides thoughtful, expert care for all your skin health needs. We are proud to offer the most advanced general, surgical and cosmetic dermatological services in the Central and South Florida regions. Your best skin awaits.