Mohs surgery is a specialized approach performed by Mohs surgeons to treat certain types of skin cancer. For candidates evaluating this procedure, understanding its method, purpose, and the overall process can help provide clarity. Here is more information on what to expect before, during, and after Mohs surgery:
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a technique performed by specially trained skin cancer surgeons known as Mohs surgeons. The goal of the procedure is to remove cancerous cells while minimizing the loss of healthy tissue. The Mohs technique involves removing skin cancer layer by layer and immediately examining each layer under a microscope. This staged approach allows the surgeon to map the cancer’s exact location and confirm complete removal during the procedure.
Mohs surgeons have advanced training in pathology, reconstructive surgery, and dermatologic oncology. The specialized skills enable them to both remove affected tissue and assess cancer cells during surgery. They aim for thorough treatment with minimal cosmetic or functional impact.
Why Is Mohs Surgery Conducted?
Mohs surgery is used for skin cancers that have a high risk of recurrence, are located in areas where preserving healthy tissue is helpful, or have irregular borders. This technique is commonly used for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, though it may also be evaluated in other cases. The primary goal is to achieve the highest possible cure rates while preserving the greatest amount of healthy tissue. Mohs surgery is often recommended for areas such as the face, ears, scalp, hands, and feet, where both cosmetic and functional preservation are key evaluations.
What Happens Before the Surgery?
Before Mohs surgery, patients usually meet with the Mohs surgeon for a consultation. During this visit, a medical history is reviewed, and the surgical process is discussed in detail. Photographs of the affected area may be taken for documentation and surgical planning.
Patients may be advised to continue taking their regular medications unless otherwise instructed by the surgeon. The area to be treated is cleaned, and local anesthesia is used to numb the region. Fasting is not typically required, allowing most patients to eat meals as usual.
What Happens During the Surgery?
The Mohs procedure is performed in stages. The surgeon removes a thin layer of skin tissue from the area where the cancer is located. This layer is immediately processed and examined in a laboratory adjacent to the operating room. The patient waits while the tissue is mapped and checked for the presence of cancer cells.
If cancerous cells are still found at the edges, the surgeon removes another thin layer, focusing only on affected areas. This process repeats until all examined samples show no remaining cancerous cells. Throughout the procedure, the wound is covered while results are pending.
What Is Recovery Like?
After the cancer is entirely removed, the area may be closed with stitches, left to heal naturally, or reconstructed with a skin flap or graft. The specific closure method depends on the size and location of the wound. Detailed wound care instructions are provided to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. Some swelling, redness, or mild discomfort may occur at the surgery site.
Consult Mohs Surgeons Today
Mohs surgery is a precise, tissue-sparing method used for treating select skin cancers. The methodical removal and examination of tissue during surgery aim to maximize cancer clearance while preserving healthy skin. Seeking guidance from a qualified professional offers an effective way to learn about this specialized procedure and make informed decisions based on individual needs.