What is Mohs micrographic surgery, and can it be used on the face?

Patients diagnosed with skin cancer, whether basal cell carcinoma or melanoma, will need to talk to a professional about their needs to get a definitive diagnosis and discuss removal options. For many patients challenged with skin cancer on the face, our team at Associates In Dermatology will often recommend certain types of procedures for excision, such as Mohs micrographic surgery. Mohs micrographic surgery continues to be a reliable way to address areas of skin cancer, particularly those that develop on highly visible areas where disfigurement should be avoided, such as the face. Let’s talk about Mohs micrographic surgery and what makes it a popular choice for skin cancer removal.

What is Mohs micrographic surgery?

Our doctors at Associates In Dermatology in Westlake, Middleburg Heights, and Lorain, Ohio, educate patients diagnosed with skin cancer on procedures such as Mohs micrographic surgery. This particular skin cancer surgery is a specialized treatment that removes the cancerous tissue layer by layer. Doctors can examine each layer of skin under a microscope to determine if all cancer cells have been successfully removed before closing the wound with stitches.

What are the primary advantages of Mohs micrographic surgery?

The Mohs micrographic surgery technique offers many advantages for patients. This includes:

• Low recurrence rate
• Minimal scarring
• Maximum preservation of healthy tissue
• Highly effective, especially for treating difficult areas such as the face and ears

Is Mohs micrographic surgery right for my type of skin cancer?

Mohs micrographic surgery is a safe and reliable way to detect and remove skin cancer. As with all medical treatments, it is vital that you discuss the risks and benefits with our experienced dermatologists so that you understand what to expect from this procedure. We can walk you through the process and talk to you about what happens during this treatment so there are no surprises. We can educate you on whether or not this particular procedure would serve a purpose for treating your skin cancer.

What happens during Mohs micrographic surgery?

First, we prepare the patient with proper sedation and anesthetic to numb the area and put them at ease. Then, we remove the skin where the cancer was found layer by layer, evaluating each section to look for present cancer. When the full area of cancer has been removed, sutures are used to close the incision. Because this particular method of skin cancer removal only removes areas where cancer exists, it often reduces or eliminates disfigurement that may come with more traditional forms of excision used by other doctors and dermatologists in the field.

How do I learn more about Mohs micrographic surgery?

Our team of professionals at Associates In Dermatology helps patients in and around the communities of Westlake, Middleburg Heights, and Loraine, OH. For assistance, please contact one of our three offices: Westlake (440) 482-8323, Middleburg Heights (440) 482-8424, or Lorain (440) 482-8363.