Mohs surgery is done with a microscope which allows surgeons to trace cancerous cells down to the very root, ensuring full removal. It is most widely utilized to treat basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.

The cure rate using this technology is the highest among all skin cancer treatment procedures – up to 99% even when other treatments have previously failed.

Because of the precise nature of the surgery, it is the most minimally invasive allowing for less chance or scarring or disfigurement.

Mohs surgery may be recommended when:

• The cancerous cells have come back
• There is scar tissue in the area of the cancer cells
• The tumor is very large
• The edges cannot be clearly defined
• Rapidly spreading cancers
• The cancer is in an area where function preservation is vital (eyes, nose, lips)

What happens during the procedure?

The surgeon will remove the tumor itself as well as an additional very thin layer of tissue around the tumor itself. He or she will create a drawing of the removed area which can be used as a guide if any remaining cells need to be further removed.

If microscopic analysis still shows evidence of cancer, the process continues layer-by-layer until the cancerous cells are completely gone.

The intent is to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible making the recovery as full as nature permits. Sometimes reconstructive surgery is necessary due to size or shape of removal.

Who are the surgeons who perform Mohs?

This is a select group of highly trained surgeons. They specialize in both dermatology and pathology. They are able to remove only the cancerous tissue leaving untouched the healthy cells. This skill level minimizes the cosmetic impact of the surgery itself while increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.

Do you have a carcinoma and are in need of a skilled board approved Mohs surgeon? Visit www.ipalc.org/find to locate a dermatological surgeon in Lee county, Florida.