Discover the benefits of Mohs Micrographic Surgery, a precise procedure utilized for the removal of skin cancer. This meticulous skin cancer excision method is chosen in specific circumstances, such as:
- Biopsy-proven aggressive skin cancer types
- Recurrence of previously treated skin cancer
- Skin cancer near critical structures like the nose, ear, or eyelid
- Skin cancer in cosmetically significant areas such as the face or neck
- Skin cancer that exceeds 9mm on the face or 2 cm on the trunk or extremities
Our expert Mohs surgeons perform this procedure under local anesthesia, usually within a day. They meticulously examine and excise cancerous tissues, preserving healthy ones, reducing the risk of recurrence or metastasis.
Contact us at (818) 842-8000 for more information about Mohs skin cancer treatment.
What Happens During Mohs Surgery?
The Mohs surgery process involves several steps. First, the area is anesthetized with a small needle injection that contains a special ingredient to minimize discomfort.
Skin cancers are usually softer than the surrounding skin. Our surgeons initially remove the majority of the tumor by scraping off this soft tissue. They then excise a thin layer of surrounding tissue, which is processed for microscopic examination.
Our Mohs surgeons use careful mapping and color-coding techniques to locate any residual cancer accurately. If additional cancer is found, the tissue removal process is repeated in the specific area where the residual tumor remains.
Have questions? Call us now and learn more about our skin cancer treatment procedures!
How Long Does Mohs Surgery Take?
Arrive at the office 30 minutes before your appointment, and expect to stay up to 6 hours. Take your medications as usual, and remember to bring something to pass the time. Please arrange a ride home post-surgery.
Post-surgery, we'll determine the best treatment for the excision area. This could be natural healing, stitches, skin flaps, or in some cases, a skin graft. We'll decide together what's best for you after the entire skin cancer has been removed.
What Can I Expect After My Surgery?
We provide detailed post-operative instructions. Expect frequent bandage changes and potential mild bleeding. Mild discomfort can occur post-surgery, typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Swelling and bruising are common and resolve in 2-3 weeks.
The treated area can often feel tight, improving over time. Remember, skin cancer removal surgery will result in scarring, but scars improve significantly over 1-2 years.
For questions or concerns, call (818) 842-8000. Discover more about Mohs micrographic skin cancer surgery and other skin cancer treatment options at Skin & Beauty Center.