MOHS

In the last 30 years, more individuals have been diagnosed with skin cancer than all other forms of cancer combined. With early detection and treatment, most skin cancers are curable using techniques such as Mohs surgery. Dr. Khanna is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology in Mohs micrographic surgery and is now thrilled that he can provide this convenient and precise outpatient treatment method to his patients.

What is Mohs micrographic Surgery?

Mohs surgery is an outpatient surgical method performed under local anesthesia. It is named for Dr. Frederick Mohs, who developed the process in the mid-twentieth century. This technique involves the removal of layers of the affected skin until the tissue no longer contains cancer cells. Mohs is very precise. It can take several hours to map the tumors correctly, but treatment is done while the patient waits. With this procedure, the patient gets pathology results immediately and does not leave the office until all the cancer cells have been removed.

Benefits of Mohs surgery

Mohs surgery is advantageous in treating basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, some melanomas, and other more unusual types of skin cancer.

There are several reasons Mohs surgery should be considered:

It is effective for cancers that are large or more aggressive.
The precision of this technique allows the removal of cancers that do not have defined borders.
The technique preserves healthy tissues for minimal cosmetic impact in areas such as eyelids, ears, nose, mouth, fingertips, or genitals.
It has a high success rate for removing cancers that are recurring or have a higher risk of recurrence.

In recent years, guidelines have been laid out for the proper utilization of the Mohs technique. It is not suitable for every skin cancer. Our providers work with Dr. Khanna, our lead dermatologist at Dermatology Specialists of Illinois, and together will determine the best action plan for you and your diagnosis.