Mohs Micrographic Surgery
What is Mohs Surgery?
More than 1.2 million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized tissue sparing technique designed for effective removal of skin cancer. The procedure was first developed in the 1920’s by Dr. Frederic Mohs and is now a widely used procedure that offers the highest cure rate for skin cancers, 99% for primary and 96% for recurrent basal cell carcinomas.
When is Mohs surgery recommended?
The types of skin cancer most likely to warrant Mohs surgery are:
Located in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas around the eyes, lips, nose, ears, scalp, hands, feet or genitals
Large (greater than 2cm), growing rapidly, or aggressive tumors
Recurrent tumors
It is important to realize that even though the biopsy site may heal well, the biopsy is not sufficient to completely remove the skin cancer. If left untreated, it is likely that the skin cancer will continue to grow beneath the surface and may require a larger surgical procedure in the future.
Dr. Kevin Moore is a specialist in Mohs Micrographic Surgery. Click here to read more about his experience.