Understanding Mohs Surgery: The Gold Standard for Skin Cancer Treatment

When it comes to treating skin cancer, precision and effectiveness matter most. Mohs micrographic surgery, often referred to simply as Mohs surgery, is considered the gold standard for removing certain types of skin cancer. This highly specialized procedure offers patients the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

What Is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is a state-of-the-art technique developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs in the 1930s. It is primarily used to treat basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the two most common forms of skin cancer. In some cases, it is also recommended for certain types of melanoma.

Unlike standard excision, where the tumor is removed with a predetermined margin of normal skin, Mohs surgery involves examining 100% of the surgical margins under a microscope in real time. This step-by-step process ensures all cancer cells are removed while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible.

Benefits of Mohs Surgery

Patients and dermatologists often prefer Mohs surgery for several important reasons:

Highest cure rates – Up to 99% for many skin cancers.
Tissue preservation – Ideal for areas where cosmetic or functional outcomes are critical (such as the face, ears, nose, lips, and hands).
Same-day results – The cancer removal and microscopic examination are completed during the same visit.
Lower recurrence rates – Because every margin is carefully checked, the chances of cancer returning are greatly reduced.

Who Is a Candidate for Mohs Surgery?

Your dermatologist may recommend Mohs surgery if:

The skin cancer is located in a cosmetically or functionally sensitive area.
The cancer has aggressive or irregular borders.
The tumor has recurred after previous treatment.
The cancer is large or growing rapidly.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Mohs surgery is typically performed in an outpatient dermatology office under local anesthesia. The surgeon removes the visible tumor, then immediately examines the tissue under a microscope. If cancer cells remain, the surgeon removes another thin layer of tissue only in the affected area. This process is repeated until no cancer cells are detected.

Most patients return home the same day and experience minimal downtime. Depending on the size and location of the treated area, stitches or reconstructive techniques may be needed.

Why Choose a Dermatology Practice That Offers Mohs Surgery?

Choosing a dermatology practice with Mohs surgeons ensures you are receiving expert care. These physicians have specialized training in skin cancer removal, pathology, and reconstructive surgery—providing patients with the best functional and cosmetic outcomes.

Protecting Your Skin After Mohs Surgery

After successful treatment, ongoing skin cancer prevention is essential. Protect your skin with:

Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+).
Routine self-checks for new or changing lesions.
Annual professional skin exams with your dermatologist.

Bottom line: Mohs surgery is a highly effective, precise, and patient-focused treatment for skin cancer. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, consult with a board-certified dermatologist to determine if Mohs surgery is the best option for your care.