Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery (also known as Mohs micrographic surgery) is a method used to remove high-risk skin cancer. It’s very precise. Your surgeon cuts away (excises) the tumor in layers starting with the visible portion of the tumor and a margin of skin cells around it. Then, the sides and deep edges are examined under a microscope. If the skin cancer extends to any of the edges (margins) your surgeon will remove more tissue in the positive areas, and look at the new sample under a microscope. This process continues until all of the cancer is removed.

Who Needs Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is recommended for individuals who have:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma: This common type of skin cancer often occurs on the head, neck, or other sensitive areas, where tissue preservation is critical.

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Especially for cases that are large, aggressive, or located in high-risk areas like the face.

• Melanoma: In specific cases, Mohs surgery may be used to remove melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer.

• Recurrent Skin Cancer: For cancer that has returned after previous treatments, as Mohs surgery provides a high likelihood of complete removal.

   

When to See a Specialist

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or suspect you may have it, consult a dermatologist or skin cancer specialist. They will assess your condition and determine if Mohs surgery is the appropriate treatment option based on the type, size, and location of the cancer.

Procedure

• Local Anesthesia: The area around the tumor is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure the procedure is painless.

• Tumor Removal: The surgeon removes the visible tumor with a thin layer of surrounding healthy tissue.

• Mapping and Lab Processing: The removed tissue is precisely mapped and marked. It is then processed in an on-site lab, where the surgeon examines the tissue under a microscope to identify cancer cells.

• Layer-by-Layer Analysis: This process is repeated, with additional layers of tissue being removed and examined until no cancer cells are found. The surgeon continues layer by layer until the tissue is cancer-free.

• Closure: Once cancer-free tissue is confirmed, the surgeon discusses options for closing the wound, which may include stitches, skin flaps, or grafts.

• Immediate Results: Mohs surgery provides immediate feedback, as the surgeon examines the tissue on-site. This enables precise removal of cancer while sparing healthy tissue.

Road To Recovery

Recovery from Mohs surgery depends on the size and location of the wound. In most cases, patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure, with careful wound care and follow-up appointments.

Risk Management

Mohs surgery is generally considered safe, with minimal risk of complications. Possible risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, or nerve damage, but these are rare when performed by a skilled Mohs surgeon.

Benefits of Mohs Surgery

• High Cure Rates: Mohs surgery has some of the highest cure rates for skin cancer, ensuring complete removal of cancerous tissue.

• Tissue Preservation: It minimizes the removal of healthy tissue, making it ideal for cancer located in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas.

• Immediate Results: The surgeon can verify the complete removal of cancer cells during the procedure, reducing the need for additional surgeries.

   

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Mohs surgery only for skin cancer on the face?

   No, Mohs surgery can be performed on skin cancer located on various parts of the body, including the head, neck, hands, and legs.

    

2. How long does Mohs surgery take?

   The length of the procedure varies depending on the size and complexity of the cancer. It can range from a couple of hours to a full day.

    

3. Will I have a scar after Mohs surgery?

   Scarring is minimal compared to traditional surgical methods, and many patients find the resulting scars are less noticeable over time.

    

4. Can Mohs surgery be performed on children or the elderly?

   Yes, Mohs surgery can be used for patients of all ages, depending on the type and location of the skin cancer.

    

5. Is there a risk of cancer recurrence after Mohs surgery?

   While Mohs surgery has a high cure rate, there is always a small risk of recurrence. Regular follow-up appointments are essential for long-term monitoring.