Mohs surgery is widely regarded as one of the most effective treatments for skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the two most common types. Its success lies in its precision, high cure rate, and ability to preserve healthy tissue, making it an optimal choice for many patients.

High Cure Rates

Mohs surgery boasts cure rates of up to 99% for newly diagnosed skin cancers and 94% for recurring cases. These rates are significantly higher than most other treatments, making Mohs the preferred treatment for managing specific types of skin cancer. We carefully remove cancerous tissue layer by layer and examine each under a microscope during the procedure. The precision of Mohs surgery minimizes the likelihood of recurrence of your skin cancer.

Tissue Conservation

One of the standout benefits of Mohs surgery is its ability to conserve as much healthy tissue as possible. This is especially important for cancers located in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas, such as the face, ears, or hands. By removing only the tissue that contains cancer cells, Mohs reduces scarring and helps maintain the natural appearance and function of the treated area.

Precision and Real-Time Analysis

During Mohs surgery, the surgeon acts as both the clinician and pathologist, analyzing the removed tissue immediately under a microscope. This ensures that every cancer cell is identified and excised, which is not always possible with standard excision methods. The real-time analysis means patients leave the procedure knowing their cancer is fully treated, offering peace of mind.

Versatility

Mohs surgery is not limited to BCC and SCC. It is also effective for treating other types of skin cancer, including melanoma in situ and certain rare cancers. Its application is especially valuable for cancers with poorly defined borders, aggressive growth patterns, or a high likelihood of recurrence.

Outpatient Procedure with Minimal Recovery

Mohs surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, making it less invasive and more convenient for patients. Recovery is usually swift, and complications are rare. This makes it an accessible and practical option for most people.

For actinic keratoses, a common precursor to skin cancer, we may use non-invasive cryosurgery to target and remove any lesions. If your condition is more progressed, non-invasive photodynamic therapy uses light-activated medication to eliminate damaged cells. With the precision of Mohs micrographic surgery, we remove skin cancer layer by layer and preserve as much of the surrounding tissue as possible. Severe cases may require excisional surgery, along with radiation and chemotherapy.