Protecting yourself from the risks presented by UV rays is a vital part of overall skincare. Wearing UFP clothing, applying and reapplying sunscreen, and seeking shade even in the winter are all great exercises for prevention. Unfortunately, over time we may become exposed to the risk factors for skin cancers. A select few types of skin cancer are treatable with a specialized form of surgery called Mohs Micrographic Surgery.
Mohs surgery, named after the doctor who pioneered its creation, Dr. Frederic Edward Mohs, is a highly effective form of surgery used to treat specialized forms of skin cancer such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas and in some specialized cases, melanoma. Mohs is performed by a highly trained dermatologist who must complete programs accredited by the American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology.
Mohs is a preferred form of surgery for skin cancers affecting places with little underlying skin such as the lips, eyelids, nose, ears, scalp, fingers, toes or genitals. Mohs is also performed if the skin cancer is particularly aggressive, has clear edges or has received treatment before. Mohs leaves as much healthy tissue as possible, while removing the affected cells in layers.
Mohs surgery is performed in a series of steps:
- A Mohs surgeon will examine the area and mark where the treatment is to be performed, then administer an anesthetic to the area. In some cases, the affected skin may be on the face or scalp and therefore you will not be able to see what is happening as the surgeon works, though he or she will talk you through the procedure.
- Next, a very thin layer of tissue is removed and examined carefully under a microscope. This will determine whether or not the cancerous tissue has deeper roots in the skin. Some skin cancers may run deeper and require more layers to be removed in order to remove all of the cancerous tissue. Generally, the surgeon will bandage the area while you wait for the results of the lab work to be completed.
- If the lab work determines that there is still a presence of cancer cells, more tissue will be removed. The surgeon will continue to remove tissue in layers until there are no more cancer cells present.
After surgery the doctor will determine if stitches are needed or not. Some wounds will heal on their own and leave behind minimal scarring without the need for stitches. Be sure to follow the after-care instructions given to you by your dermatologist.