Mohs surgery, also known as Mohs micrographic surgery, is a highly effective procedure used to treat skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Its meticulous approach ensures that all cancerous tissue is removed while preserving healthy skin, which is especially important for cosmetic areas of the body.

Purpose: The goal of Mohs surgery is to remove skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This is particularly important for cancers in areas like the face, hands, and ears, where cosmetic outcomes are significant.

What to Expect: Mohs surgery is a precise, layer-by-layer approach to excising the cancerous tissue.

• Step 1: Local Anesthesia: The area around the cancer is numbed using a local anesthetic.
• Step 2: Removal of the Tumor: The visible tumor, along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue, is carefully removed.
• Step 3: Microscopic Examination: The removed tissue is immediately processed in the lab and examined under a microscope by the Mohs surgeon. This is a key part of the procedure—by looking at the tissue margins (edges), the surgeon checks if cancer cells are still present.
• Step 4: Repeat if Necessary: If cancer cells are found at the margins, the surgeon will remove another layer of tissue from the affected area, repeating the process until no more cancerous cells are present. This ensures all of the cancer is removed while leaving healthy tissue intact.
• Step 5: Reconstruction: Once the cancer is fully excised, the surgeon may reconstruct the wound, either through suturing or other techniques to promote healing.

Benefits:

• High Cure Rate: Mohs surgery has the highest cure rate for skin cancers, typically over 99% for primary cancers.
• Tissue Preservation: This surgery removes as little healthy tissue as possible, which is crucial for cosmetic reasons.
• Real-Time Results: The ability to check the margins immediately means that the cancer can be removed completely in one session, reducing the need for follow-up surgeries.

Aftercare: After the surgery, there may be swelling, tenderness, or bruising at the site. Dr. MacArthur will provide instructions for wound care to help with healing. The area should be kept clean, and follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor recovery.

Recovery: Recovery is typically quick, and many patients can return to their normal activities within a few days. However, recovery time depends on the size and location of the surgery.

Successful Mohs Surgery demands a high level of expertise, utmost precision, and a commitment to excellence. This is the Town & Country Dermatology & Surgery Center difference.