Mohs surgery, also known as Mohs microphraphic surgery, is often used to treat both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. According to the Department of Dermatology at the University of Maryland, it has a cure rate of between 95 and 99 percent. Before deciding if this type of treatment is best for you, it is important to discuss the benefits and possible disadvantages with your doctor. In addition, you should understand and learn as much as possible about what to expect before, during and after the surgery. The following are questions patients frequently ask about Mohs surgery.

What is Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery is a specialized treatment which removes cancer in stages, one skin layer at a time. As each layer is removed it is examined under a microscope. If cancer is seen, another layer is removed. This method allows as much healthy skin as possible to remain.

Why is it called Mohs surgery?

Dr. Frederic Mohs, Professor of Surgery at the University of Wisconsin, developed this surgical technizue in the 1930s. Although the surgery has been improved and modified since then, it is still named after Dr. Mohs.

When is Mohs surgery recommended?

If you suspect skin cancer, the first step is to consult with a dermatologist, who may recommend having a biopsy done to confirm the diagnosis of cancer. Your dermatologist would be able to tell you whether you are a candidate for Mohs surgery, however, the University of Maryland Department of Dermatology indicates that Mohs surgery can be considered when:

• The skin caner is on the eye-lid, nose, lips or other areas that would require saving tissue around the cancer
• If your skin cancer has recurred after other treatments have been tried
• If your skin cancer is showing aggressive features
• When it is difficult to determine where the skin cancer ends and normal tissue begins

How is the surrounding tissue treated after surgery has been completed?

Because it is impossible to know how much tissue will be removed prior to surgery, there is no exact answer to this question. Once the surgery is completed, your doctor will determine the best way to allow your skin to heal. If only a small amount of tissue has been removed, this may mean natural healing or simply placing a bandage over the wound, without further treatment. When larger amounts of tissue are removed, you may require stitches. Your doctor will let you know when he needs to see you again for follow-up.

Will I have a scar after surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, you will have a scar. The area of the surgery may be pink or bumpy for several months. Usually scars fade over time, however, if your scar does not, talk with your doctor to make sure no additional treatment is necessary.

What type of anesthesia will I need for the surgery?

This type of surgery is done with a local anesthesia. You are awake throughout the entire surgery. Some doctors may also provide a medication to help you relax during the surgery.