Chances are you or someone you know has experienced a form of skin cancer in their lifetime. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer by 70 years of age. Known as the most diagnosed cancer in the U.S., it's also one of the most preventable and treatable cancers if addressed accordingly and quickly.
Mohs surgery offers patients a non-invasive treatment method by removing skin one layer at a time. Dermatologists can determine whether cancerous areas are fully removed of any melanocytes. Once your dermatologist confirms no cancerous cells remain in the underlying layers of skin, bandages or stitching may be applied to allow your wound to fully heal. For more invasive cancerous removal, parts of skin from your body may be used to help conceal and heal your wound.
Medical Dermatology
Mohs surgery leaves minimal scarring and can treat many areas throughout the body. This includes:
Face
Cheeks
Nose
Lips
Ears
Chin
Head
Neck
Hands
Fingers
Feet
Toes
Ankles
Extremities
Genitalia
Are there risks involved with Mohs surgery?
Risks involved with Mohs surgery are minimal. These are typically outpatient procedures lasting anywhere from 4 to 8 hours depending on the complexity and severity of your condition.
Patients can expect slight bleeding and minor pain around the surgical location. In rare instances, patients may experience numbness near the wound, weakness around the affected area, or potential scarring.
To eliminate complications of extraneous medications, your dermatologist will ask beforehand to cease your usage. Make sure to follow any and all guidelines to prepare for the smoothest outcomes.
Wear loose fitting clothing, bring an activity (books, viewing device, etc.) for periods of downtime, and take time off from obligations to allow for your length of surgery and recovery time.
Are there multiple sessions with Mohs surgery?
Procedures vary depending on the severity of your skin condition. After your first layer of skin is removed, your dermatologist will analyze the tissue to determine whether cancerous cells are still present.
During this time, you'll wait for confirmation to proceed with further tissue removal, or receive verification your cancerous cells are fully removed. If follow up procedures or monitoring is required, your dermatologist will let you know.
Once your procedure is complete, your dermatologist will recommend recovery options (bandages, follow up appointments, medication, etc.) to help your wound heal. This can last 1 week or more depending on the severity of your procedure.
If you notice any infectious areas or increasing complications after surgery, contact your dermatologist immediately.
Better skin and better health is our mission.
