One of the main challenges in surgical skin cancer removal is to remove all the cancer cells, without leaving any behind. Remaining cells are responsible for skin cancer recurrence, and therefore it’s necessary to find strategies that make sure these cells are being removed. MOHS Surgery, also known as MOHS micrographic surgery is a technique that puts together surgery and microscopy. The main goal is to remove all the skin cancer cells but keep the surrounding healthy tissue. This technique is used to treat both basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas.
But how does it work?The MOHS surgery is performed by a highly specialized, fellowship trained medical professional who is not only able to perform the surgery but also does the analysis portion of it. This procedure is not done all at once, but in stages. The doctor cuts a thin layer of tissue using a scalpel and then analyzes it under the microscope to see if any cancer cells are remaining and their exact location. If any cancerous cells are still there, the surgeon will cut another thin layer and analyze again until there are no more cancer cells remaining. This way you remove the skin cancer but preserve most of the healthy surrounding tissue. The duration of the procedure will depend on the extension of the skin cancer, and the recovery depends on that as well. Small skin cancers will heal easily by themselves, while larger ones might need stitches to help close the area.
Are there any risks?MOHS surgery has no more risks than routine surgeries, and the benefits are many. Not only aesthetically because it conserves more healthy skin, but the cure rates are one of the best: up to 99% for cancer that has not been treated before and around 94% for cancer that has recurred after a previous treatment. It is considered the gold standard technique to remove basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas and it’s even been used to treat melanomas.
Regular skin exams are recommended to prevent skin cancer or catch it in the early stages. Schedule your skin exam today, visit Miami Cosmetic Derm!
