Mohs Surgery Specialist

What is Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery is a skin cancer removal technique developed by Frederic E. Mohs in the late 1930s and refined over the years. Today, it is a leading treatment for many types of squamous cell carcinomas and basal cell carcinomas. 

Also called Mohs micrographic surgery, the process involves removing very thin layers of cells and examining them under magnification until reaching a layer of completely cancer-free cells. 

Practitioners who offer Mohs surgery go through additional training to learn how to make optimal use of the technique and technology that support this treatment option. A careful and unrushed approach is critical to a successful procedure. 

Why choose Mohs surgery over other skin cancer treatment options?

Some treatments for skin cancer rely on excising or cutting out not only the visibly affected tissues but also a portion of the surrounding tissue. That approach increases the chances of removing as many cancerous cells as possible. 

Sizable excisions leave significant scarring and can also lead to sunken areas of skin. When cancer develops on the face or other highly visible areas, excision can dramatically change your appearance. 

Mohs surgery offers the chance to remove all detectable cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.  

What happens during Mohs surgery?

On the day of your Mohs surgery at Global Dermatology, Dr. Poulos examines your skin and preps it for surgery. You receive an injection of a local anesthetic to eliminate sensation in the treatment area, but you remain alert and awake from start to finish. 

He begins by removing the skin that shows visible signs of cancer. Next, he begins shaving away incredibly thin layers of cells.

Each time he removes a layer, Dr. Poulos examines those cells under a microscope. Dr. Poulos searches for cellular abnormalities linked to skin cancer. If he notes those abnormalities, he comes back to remove another layer of cells. 

Dr. Poulos repeats the process until he reaches a layer of cells with no signs of cancer. At that point, he assesses the wound and determines the best way to initiate healing. 

In some cases, the wound simply needs treatment with antibiotic medication and a sterile dressing to cover it. Your body immediately begins knitting scar tissue over the treated area. 

In other cases, you need stitches to close the wound and facilitate healing. Skin grafting is also an option if the wound is large or deep. 

After your Mohs procedure, you learn how to care for the wound on your own at home. You return to have the area checked during a follow-up visit. 

If you have questions about Mohs surgery, call Global Dermatology to book a time that fits your schedule. Online booking is also available and takes little time to complete.