How is Mohs surgery performed?

How is Mohs surgery performed?

Mohs surgery is done as an outpatient procedure. The area of the body is numbed with a local anesthetic, and then the cancer is removed layer by layer. The dermatologist will examine each specimen on a slide to ensure that all cancer has been removed and that no extra healthy skin is removed. This leaves the least amount of scarring while removing all of the skin cancer in one appointment. This procedure is complex and time-consuming but provides better results than any other surgical procedure for skin cancer.

After the surgery is completed, patients may then undergo reconstructive surgery, depending on the size of the skin cancer removed from the skin. If the area undergoing treatment is especially small, stitches will be used to close up the surgical area and the spot should heal well on its own. Before your procedure, your provider will discuss with you the possibilities of reconstructive surgery, as well as how to care for the surgical area after the procedure has been done. Your dermatologist may also recommend regular annual checks to ensure that the skin cancer does not come back or redevelop in another area of the body.

The providers of Derick Dermatology offer skin cancer surgery in order to help patients move on with their lives after diagnosis. The success rate of Mohs surgery is exceptionally high, making it the procedure of choice for skin cancer patients when indicated.

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer and are interested in having a board-certified dermatologist handle your Mohs surgery, call Derick Dermatology today for a consultation appointment and examination.