Dermatology for the Entire Family

MAKE A PAYMENT | GIVE FEEDBACK

BOOK APPOINTMENT
ONLINE STORE

What is Mohs Micrographic Surgery?

Mohs surgery is done on an outpatient basis in a procedure room with a nearby laboratory that allows the surgeon to examine the tissue after it is removed.

Mohs Micrographic surgery is a specialized, highly effective technique used to treat skin cancer. The goal of Mohs surgery is to remove as much of the skin cancer as possible, while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

Mohs surgery differs from other skin cancer treatments in that it allows an examination of the removed cancerous tissue, so that all “roots” and extensions of the cancer can be eliminated.

 

Mohs surgery is recognized as the skin cancer treatment with the highest cure rate.

 Mohs has a cure rate of up to 99%, as compared to a cure rate of 85% to 92% for standard skin cancer surgery.

 

You can put your mind at ease knowing that in addition to providing you with the HIGHEST CURE RATE possible, the Mohs Procedure removes the least amount of healthy skin compared to other surgical techniques.

Patient Preparation For Surgery

  • Bathe or shower – Wash your hair before surgery, as your wound and dressing may have to remain dry for 48 hours.
  • Please DO NOT wear any makeup
  • Eat breakfast and take any prescription medications. If you need any additional medications throughout the day, please bring them with you.
  • Please DO NOT DISCONTINUE any blood thinning medicines such as Coumadin© (warfarin), Plavix© (clopidogrel), Ticlid© (ticlopidine), or aspirin if they WERE prescribed by another physician. – However, use of aspirin (Anacin©, Bufferin©, etc.) or ibuprofen (Motrin©, Advil©, etc.) products should be stopped ten days prior to your surgery if they WERE NOT prescribed or recommended by another physician. These medications may thin your blood and cause more bleeding. You may substitute acetaminophen (Tylenol©) if required.
  • Expect some waiting time during your Mohs surgery, this procedure can sometimes last several hours. Plan ahead by bringing a light snack to tide you over and a book, magazine or other activity to help you pass the time.
  • Dress comfortably and refrain from wearing perfume or cologne. Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing; a button down shirt may be your best option, as to not disturb bandages. You may want to bring a sweater or jacket, so you can easily adapt if the room is warm or cold.
  • Bring a friend to your appointment. Having someone come to your appointment with you is a good idea. Your family member or friend may come in the room and keep you company during the waiting periods. If you do not have someone with you, it may be advisable to arrange for someone to drive you home following surgery, if needed.

If you are scheduled for Mohs at our office and have questions; please call our Surgery Coordinator at (423) 722-0563