Mohs surgery is named after Dr. Frederic E. Mohs who pioneered the technique while still a medical student from 1929-1934.  It has since evolved into what now is usually a one-day procedure for the treatment of skin cancers.  Mohs surgeons are specially trained in surgery, pathology, and reconstruction.  Therefore, Mohs surgery has the highest success rate of all treatments for skin cancer – up to 99%.

            The Mohs technique involves removing the skin cancer while preserving the normal tissue around it.  The visible portion of the tumor is surgically removed, and then color-coded and divided into sections in the lab.  This is then processed while the patient waits, and the tissue is transferred onto a microscope slide for the Mohs surgeon to examine and check if all the cancer is gone.  If the roots of a skin cancer extend beyond what was visible on top of the skin – the Mohs surgeon will see this under the microscope.  She can then remove only the cancerous tissue and leave your normal skin intact.  The goal is to leave you with the smallest scar, and the maximal cure rate.

            Once all the cancer is removed, the Mohs surgeon will evaluate post-surgical options with the patient.  Most wounds may be closed with stitches.  A larger wound may require a skin graft or a flap.  If the tumor is very large, then another surgeon with special skills may be called upon to assist with reconstruction.