How does Mohs micrographic surgery work?
A Mohs micrographic surgery procedure is performed by a surgeon who will assess the patient’s cancerous cells to plan out the procedure. During this surgery, the doctor will remove all of the cancerous cells in the area, including the removal of all the margins (edges). This is done layer by layer, evaluating each layer before proceeding to the next one. Tissue specimens will continue to be removed until there is no cancer cells left. This form of excision is done in a way to not only remove all cancer cells, but to leave as much cancer-free skin as possible—resulting in less disfigurement. Leaving remaining, healthy skin is key to reducing scarring and avoiding reconstructive surgery later on, especially if cancer is removed from highly visible areas of the body such as the face.
What other cancer treatment methods may be employed?
During the diagnosis process, the team at Georgia Dermatology Partners will discuss with patients all of the options available to them. Not everyone is a good fit for Mohs micrographic surgery, so other treatments may be discussed as well. This includes excision, freezing, chemotherapy, and radiation. However, if patients have caught their skin cancer in its earlier stages, they may be able to undergo Mohs micrographic surgery and achieve cancer-free skin with a single treatment.
Is the procedure painful?
Patients often do not need to be anesthetized or sedated for Mohs micrographic surgery, though local numbing and anesthetic is used. Patients remain awake during the procedure and can follow instructions from the physician.
Call Georgia Dermatology Partners today!
If you reside in Georgia and want to speak to a provider about Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer, call (770) 972-4845 to request an appointment at any one of our four convenient locations throughout Georgia.
