Mohs surgery is a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer. This procedure involves removing thin layers of skin and examining them under a microscope until only cancer-free tissue remains. It offers a unique advantage by allowing the surgeon to see exactly where the cancer stops; this method spares as much healthy tissue as possible while verifying the complete removal of cancerous cells. Patients often choose this option for its high cure rate and tissue-sparing capabilities.
Key Aspects of Mohs Surgery
This specialized surgery differs significantly from standard excision methods because, in a traditional excision, the surgeon cuts out the visible tumor along with a safety margin of healthy skin. The tissue is sent to a lab, and results take days. Mohs surgery is performed in stages during a single visit. The surgeon removes a layer of tissue and immediately processes it in an on-site laboratory. The surgeon acts as both the surgeon and the pathologist. They map the removed tissue to the patient’s surgical site. If the microscope reveals cancer cells, the surgeon returns to that specific area to remove another layer. This targeted approach continues until no cancer cells remain. This cycle of checking and removing confirms the cancer is gone before the wound is closed.
Primary Benefits
Mohs surgery is widely recognized for its effectiveness, especially for cancers in sensitive areas. It is particularly useful for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, and the technique provides the highest cure rate for these common skin cancers. Because the surgeon examines 100% of the tumor margin, the risk of recurrence drops significantly.
Patients benefit from this procedure in several ways:
- High Cure Rates: It offers up to a 99% cure rate for skin cancer that has not been treated before.
- Tissue Preservation: The procedure preserves as much healthy tissue as possible, resulting in smaller scars.
- Single-Visit Completion: The surgery and lab work happen on the same day, so you leave knowing the cancer is gone.
- Precise Reconstruction: Since the wound is as small as possible, reconstructive options often yield better cosmetic results.
Procedure Expectations
You will likely remain awake during the entire process. The surgical team uses local anesthesia to numb the area completely. You will not feel pain, but you might feel pressure. The surgery starts with the removal of the visible cancer. You then wait while the tissue is processed. This waiting period can last an hour or more for each stage. If the surgeon finds more cancer, you undergo another round of removal and waiting. Once the site is clear, the surgeon discusses repair options. Small wounds may heal on their own, but larger wounds may require stitches or a skin graft.
Ask a Dermatologist Today
Skin cancer diagnosis brings many questions and concerns, and a qualified dermatologist or Mohs surgeon can provide the answers you need. They will evaluate your specific condition to see if Mohs surgery is the right choice for you. Early detection and appropriate treatment offer the best outcomes. Schedule a consultation to discuss your skin health and learn more about your treatment options.
