Why might I consider Mohs skin cancer surgery over traditional excision?
Posted by Dr. Vikram Khanna
What is Mohs micrographic skin cancer surgery?
Dr. Vikram “Vic” Khanna and the team at Dermatology Specialists of Illinois describe the Mohs skin cancer surgery as the most effective surgical technique to treat skin cancer--especially for patients with recurring skin cancer or cancer on very noticeable areas of the face and body where disfigurement from excision may be a concern. This procedure is specifically designed to remove basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other types of skin cancer. It is a procedure named after Dr. Frederic Mohs, who first developed this unique method of skin cancer removal in the 1930s.What can I expect from Mohs skin cancer surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery involves the doctor removing one thin layer of tissue at a time and examining it under a medical-grade microscope to check for cancer cells. The process continues until all the cancerous cells are removed, resulting in minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue and less scarring than traditional excision methods. When performed on the facial area, it reduces the look of disfigurement, maintaining as natural a facial appearance as possible while removing cancerous skin cells. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure, making the process relatively painless and allowing patients to return home the same day.CALL OUR OFFICE
What are the advantages of Mohs skin cancer surgery?
There are several benefits to undergoing Mohs surgery versus traditional skin cancer excision. Below are a few reasons why our patients choose to move forward with this particular method of cancer removal:- High cure rates. Mohs surgery has been shown to have a cure rate of 99% for new skin cancers and up to 94% for recurring skin cancers
- Precise removal. By removing one layer at a time, the surgeon can precisely target cancer cells without damaging healthy tissue
- Minimizes scarring. As mentioned previously, Mohs surgery results in less scarring due to the selective removal of cancerous cells
- Same-day procedure. Mohs surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing our patients to return home the same day and resume routine activities
- Reduced risk of recurrence. With traditional excision methods, there is a higher risk for cancer cells to be left behind, leading to potential recurrence
What are some potential risk factors of skin cancer to be aware of?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, there are a few risk factors that may increase the chances of developing it. These include:- Excessive sun exposure
- Fair skin
- Family history of skin cancer
- History of severe sunburns
- Weakened immune system
Are you ready to learn more about the possibility of Mohs skin cancer surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is an effective and reliable way of addressing skin cancer while ensuring full removal and less scarring. Dr. Khanna is double board-certified in Dermatology as well as Mohs Micrographic Surgery.If you are a resident of Woodstock, Lake Barrington, Huntley, or Algonquin, IL, and want to speak to a Board-certified dermatologist about skin cancer treatment options, call (844) 307-7546 to request an appointment at any of our four office locations.
