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Four common questions about Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer
Did you know that Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating certain varieties of skin cancer? If the thought of surgery seems overwhelming, it is reassuring to know that this procedure is efficient, precise, and performed with care by skilled dermatologists to minimize scarring and maximize cure rates. At Beyond Skin Dermatology in Aurora, Colorado, Dr. Maggie Kober specializes in Mohs surgery and is ready to help you achieve healthier skin. Whether you are struggling with melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or even squamous cell skin cancers, Mohs micrographic surgery might be right for you!
1. What is Mohs micrographic surgery?
Mohs surgery is not just your average procedure. In fact, it is a highly specialized technique for removing skin cancer layer by layer. What’s unique about it is that each layer of tissue is thoroughly examined under a microscope in real-time. This allows our surgeon at Beyond Skin Dermatology in Aurora, Colorado, to remove cancer cells while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue.
2. Who needs Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer?
If you have been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma (which are actually the two most common types of skin cancer), Mohs surgery could be for you. It’s especially beneficial for skin cancers on more delicate areas, such as the nose, ears, lips, and around the eyes, where preserving as much healthy skin as possible is crucial. Mohs surgery is also often recommended for more aggressive or recurring types of skin cancer, including melanoma.
3. How does Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer work?
The first step is to numb the area, as comfort is top priority. The visible portion of the skin cancer is removed by one of our professionals, along with a thin layer of tissue. This tissue sample is then taken to an on-site laboratory and examined under a microscope to identify additional cancer cells. If cancer cells are still detected, then the process is repeated, removing only the affected areas and layers until the cancer is completely gone. At this point, the surgeon repairs the area to minimize scarring and complete the process. You leave knowing the skin cancer is entirely removed with no waiting for lab results days later!
4. Why do so many people choose Mohs micrographic surgery?
- High cure rates. Mohs surgery success rates are up to 99% for new skin cancers and 94% for recurrences.
- Conserving skin. The precision of this procedure means less scarring and more of your healthy skin intact.
- Real-time results. You will know before you leave that the cancer is gone.
It’s the perfect solution for anyone wanting effective treatment with minimal impact on their appearance.
Schedule a consultation visit with our team at Beyond Skin Dermatology today to learn more about Mohs surgery for skin cancer!
When it comes to skin cancer, early treatment is key, and Mohs surgery could be the life-changing solution you need. Dr. Maggie Kober at Beyond Skin Dermatology in Aurora, Colorado, provides patients with the care they need. If you are considering this or other skin cancer removal techniques, we invite you to schedule a consultation appointment by calling (720) 213-4679 to request a visit to our office located at 1444 S. Potomac Street, Suite 240.
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Dr. Sang Kim, MD, FAAD, DipABLM, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Beyond Skin Dermatology. With over a decade of medical experience, Dr. Kim graduated from the Uniformed Services University and served as a Naval Flight Surgeon before completing his dermatology residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he was Chief Resident. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology. Dr. Kim is committed to helping patients achieve healthy skin through expert care and lifestyle optimization.