Skin cancer is a common form of cancer. The methods used to treat it vary, based on the type, size, and location of the growth. One technique that dermatologists may recommend in certain cases is Mohs surgery; this is a precise procedure performed in stages. It is a widely used option for removing many common skin cancers.

What Is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is an outpatient procedure that removes skin cancer one layer at a time. After each layer is taken, the surgeon examines the tissue under a microscope while the patient waits. This process allows the physician to map the location of any remaining cancer cells, and they can remove additional tissue only from the areas where those cells appear. The goal of this method is to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.

Who Is It For?

Mohs surgery is commonly used for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most frequently diagnosed types of skin cancer. Dermatologists can also use it for certain rarer skin cancers. A dermatologist may recommend the procedure when a case of skin cancer meets certain criteria, and this includes:

• Appears on the face
• Has borders that are difficult to define
• Is large or growing quickly
• Has returned after previous treatment

Not every skin cancer requires this level of precision. Small, well-defined growths may be managed with other methods, such as standard excision or topical medications.

What Does It Involve?

Mohs surgery generally takes place in a dermatology office. Patients usually remain awake throughout. Each round of tissue processing can take around an hour, so the full visit may last several hours. The process often follows the same general steps, including:

1. Preparation: The surgery site is numbed with a local anesthetic.
2. Removal of the First Layer: The surgeon removes the visible portion of the tumor along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue.
3. Mapping: The tissue is divided into sections and charted on a diagram.
4. Examination: A technician prepares the tissue on slides, and the surgeon reviews the edges under a microscope.
5. Removal of Additional Layers: If cancer cells remain, the surgeon removes another layer only from the affected area and repeats the examination.
6. Wound Repair: Once no cancer cells are detected, the surgeon determines how to close the wound.

Patients typically wait in a separate area between stages. Wound repair options vary based on the size and location of the treated area. Some wounds heal on their own, and others are closed with stitches, a skin flap, or a skin graft. After the procedure, patients receive instructions for wound care and activity limits. Mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness may occur during healing.

Meet With a Dermatologist

A dermatologist can review the specific features of a skin growth to determine whether Mohs surgery or another method suits the situation. A biopsy may be performed to confirm the type of cancer, and the results help guide the treatment plan. Anyone who notices a new, changing, or non-healing spot on the skin can schedule an evaluation with a dermatologist, allowing them to discuss the next steps with a knowledgeable specialist.

• Tips for Supporting Women Through Menopause
• Navigating the Complexities of Testosterone Therapy for Patients
• Building Resilience Against Anxiety
• What Steps Should I Take After Root Canal Treatment?
• Choosing the Right Medspa for Your Skincare Needs