Skin Cancer Treatment: How Mohs Surgery Can Help

Skin cancer affects millions of Americans each year, making it the most common type of cancer. While this diagnosis can feel overwhelming, advances in medical technology have created highly effective treatment options. Among these, Mohs surgery stands out as one of the most precise and successful methods for removing skin cancer while preserving healthy tissue. Divine Dermatology explains how Mohs surgery can help with effective skin cancer treatment.

Types of Skin Cancer

Understanding the various types of skin cancer is vital to help determine the most appropriate treatment approach. The types of skin cancer include:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common form, often appearing as small, flesh-colored or pearly bumps that may bleed or resemble a pimple that won’t heal completely.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Typically presents as rough, scaly patches or growths that develop rapidly and may be tender to touch.
• Melanoma: Though less common, this is the most serious form. It often begins as an unusual-looking mole or dark spot that can spread if left untreated.

What Is Mohs Surgery?

Named after Dr. Frederic E. Mohs, this specialized surgical technique offers unparalleled precision in removing skin cancer. During Mohs surgery, surgeons remove thin layers of tissue one at a time, examining each layer under a microscope immediately to check for cancer cells. This process continues until no cancerous tissue remains. The technique is particularly effective for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, though it’s also used for certain melanomas and other less common skin cancers.

How the Mohs Procedure Works

The Mohs process follows a systematic approach. The Mohs procedure includes:

• Anesthesia: The treatment area is numbed with a local anesthetic for patient comfort.
• Initial Removal: The surgeon removes the visible tumor along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue.
• Laboratory Analysis: The removed tissue is immediately processed and examined under a microscope.
• Mapping: If cancer cells are found, their exact location is mapped.
• Additional Removal: Only areas containing cancer cells have additional tissue removed.
• Repetition: This process continues layer by layer until no cancer cells remain.
• Wound Repair: Once all cancerous tissues are removed, the surgeon repairs the wound using the most appropriate method.

Benefits of Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is highly effective and successful. Some of the benefits of Mohs surgery include:

• Exceptional Cure Rates: Mohs surgery boasts the highest success rates among skin cancer treatments, with cure rates of approximately 99% for primary basal cell carcinoma and 94% for recurrent cases. Squamous cell carcinoma shows similarly impressive results.
• Tissue Preservation: By targeting only cancerous tissue, Mohs surgery preserves as much healthy skin as possible. This precision is especially valuable when treating cancers on cosmetically sensitive areas.
• Immediate Results: Patients receive real-time feedback during the procedure, eliminating the anxiety of waiting for laboratory results. If additional tissue removal is necessary, it can be completed immediately.
• Minimal Scarring: The tissue-sparing approach often results in smaller, less noticeable scars compared to traditional surgical methods.

Is Mohs Surgery Right for You?

We will evaluate your situation to determine if Mohs surgery is the most effective treatment options for you. Mohs surgery is typically recommended for:

• Skin cancers in cosmetically or functionally important areas
• Large, aggressive, or rapidly growing tumors
• Cancers with poorly defined borders
• Recurrent skin cancers
• Cases where tissue preservation is crucial

What to Expect Before, During, and After

Our team will help you understand Mohs surgery expectations. Below, we outline expectations for before, during, and after surgery.

Pre-Surgery Consultation

A pre-surgery consultation helps prepare you for Mohs surgery and puts you at ease. During your consultation, we will review your medical history, examine the cancer site, and explain the procedure in detail. You’ll also receive specific pre-operative instructions.

The Day of Surgery

Mohs surgery is an outpatient procedure that typically takes two to five hours, though complex cases may require longer. You’ll be awake throughout the procedure under local anesthesia. Between tissue removal stages, you’ll wait comfortably while the surgeon examines each layer.

Recovery & Follow-up Care

Post-surgery care instructions will depend on the wound’s size and location. We may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and provide specific guidelines for wound care. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities within a few days. Regular follow-up appointments ensure proper healing and monitor for any signs of recurrence.

Choose Us for Mohs Surgery

At Divine Dermatology, Dr. Jennifer Divine and her team are committed to providing the most advanced skin cancer treatments available. If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or have concerns about suspicious skin changes, don’t wait to seek expert care. Mohs surgery offers an exceptional combination of effectiveness and cosmetic preservation that can provide peace of mind and optimal results.

Take Control of Your Skin Health Today

Divine Dermatology has dermatology service locations in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Longmont. We’re here to help you navigate your treatment options and achieve the best possible outcome. Ready to discuss your skin cancer treatment options? Contact Divine Dermatology today to schedule your consultation.