Mohs surgery is a specialized surgical procedure used to treat most skin cancers. Thin skin layers containing cancer cells are removed layer by layer until only cancer-free tissue remains. The objective is to remove as all the cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Each layer is examined under a microscope to verify that the cancer cells have been removed.
Mohs surgery is performed by fellowship-trained dermatologists like those at Advantage Dermatology. The fellowship-trained surgeon acts as a surgeon and a pathologist. This requires specialized training. Mohs surgeons are also trained in post-Mohs reconstruction.
They are the same as with general excision surgery, but Mohs patients are at less risk for these potential risks.
Studies report the cure rate at 99% for new cancers and 95% for recurrent cancers. It is most effective for Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Cancers, the most common types of skin cancers.
Mohs surgery is NOT used for Melanoma.
Most insurance companies will pay. Medicare will pay for Mohs Surgery.
You may feel some discomfort that can be easily managed with minimal or no medication. Most people go back to work or school the next day.
Yes, any time you cut the skin you can develop a scar. The size of the scar will depend on the size of the wound. Generally, the scars are minimal and cosmetically pleasing because the Mohs Surgeon has been trained in reconstructive surgery.
When you need a Mohs Surgeon, think of Advantage Dermatology in Jacksonville, Florida.
They take pride in their work and are devoted to the best care available for each patient.
