Skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer in the United States. It is also the easiest to treat -- if detected early. Thanks to life-saving cancer technology and research, important progress in the early detection and surgical cure of skin cancer has been made. The board-certified dermatologists at Skin & Vein treat most types of skin cancer with in-office excisional and cosmetic surgery.  We also offer MOHS Micrographic Surgery.

What is MOHS Micrographic Surgery?
It is a specialized, highly effective technique for the removal of skin cancer. It differs from other skin cancer treatments in that it permits the immediate and complete microscopic examination of the removed cancerous tissue so that all cancer can be removed. MOHS has been recognized as the skin cancer treatment with the highest reported cure rate. Treating all skin cancers with MOHS surgery is not necessary. This surgery is reserved for skin cancers that reoccur or are located in cosmetic areas where preservation of the maximum amount of normal skin is important.

The surgeon removes the surrounding skin of the cancer area and examines the entire undersurface and complete edges of the specimen to assure all cancer is removed. This process is repeated as many times as necessary to locate any remaining cancerous areas. Once microscopic examination revels there is no remaining tumor, the surgical defect is ready to repair. The skilled surgeons at Skin and Vein will then surgically repair the cancer free area by simple and complex wound repair.

We advise that you reserve most of your scheduled day to be in our office. This is a time consuming procedure. We encourage you to have a friend/family member with you and bring a book or project to occupy your time. You must arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery is completed.

Most patients do not complain of significant pain. If there is discomfort, normally only Tylenol is required for relief. As with all forms of surgery, a scar will remain after the skin cancer is removed and the surgical area has completely healed. MOHS, however, will leave one of the smallest surgical defects and scars. The surgical area may remain tender for weeks, if large amounts of tissue were removed.