A skin cancer diagnosis can be shocking news. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available to remove the cancerous cells. Mohs micrographic surgery is one of the most advanced surgical dermatology methods available. This guide will break down the basics of Mohs surgery and what it treats.
Mohs micrographic surgery is a procedure in which a dermatologist removes thin layers of skin one at a time. They do so while looking at the skin under a microscope. During the process, the surgeon is able to see when they’ve removed all of the cancerous tissue. This precision allows them to preserve as much healthy skin as possible. Many experts consider Mohs surgery to be the most effective treatment for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are two of the most common forms of skin cancer.
Dermatologists use Mohs surgery to remove various types of cancers. This surgical method has a high cure rate. The following are the main conditions that this condition can remove.
If your dermatologist diagnoses you with any of the above forms of skin cancer, Mohs surgery may be a treatment option. Keep in mind that it’s important to discuss your diagnosis and potential treatments in detail with your doctor. They will inform you of potential side effects and what to expect from your course of treatment.
A surgical dermatology specialist will recommend treatment based on your specific diagnosis. In some cases, surgical excisions and shave excisions are effective for removing the affected area. Other types of surgery include curettage, electrodesiccation, laser surgery, dermabrasion and cryosurgery.
In some cases, dermatologists will recommend radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other forms of drug therapy as treatment. These types of therapies may be necessary if the cancer has spread beyond the skin. Some patients may also require more than one type of treatment.
If you were recently diagnosed with skin cancer and would like to discuss Mohs surgery, contact the team at Pacific Dermatology Specialists. Our experts are skilled in surgical dermatology and are trained to use Mohs surgery as treatment. We serve patients in Carson, Long Beach, Seal Beach, Torrance, Downey, and Montebello, CA, so you can find a convenient office close to you.